Prayagraj: A divisional-level coordination meeting chaired by divisional commissioner Lokesh M on Thursday reviewed two major NHAI projects worth Rs 8,316 crore aimed at improving connectivity, boosting economic activity and easing traffic movement in the Prayagraj region. It was attended by Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) vice-chairman Rishi Raj, NHAI project director SK Singh and officials from other departments concerned. Discussions were held regarding the construction of a 49.655 km long, four-lane greenfield access-controlled route connecting Chitrakoot to Prayagraj via Rajapur. With a project cost of Rs 3,820.96 crore, this initiative aims to strengthen connectivity in the Chitrakoot-Rajapur-Prayagraj region and ensure better traffic distribution. The route will provide a smooth alternative path, bypassing existing populated areas and traffic bottlenecks, reducing travel time and vehicle operating costs. Additionally, improved connectivity to major religious and tourist destinations — such as Chitrakoot Dham, Rajapur and Prayagraj — will boost agriculture, trade, tourism and other economic activities. Subsequently, the project to upgrade the 80.791 km stretch of NH-35 from Leprosy Crossing (Prayagraj) to the Mirzapur Bypass — expanding it from two lanes to four — was also discussed. This project, costing Rs 4,495.43 crore, also proposes necessary realignments and bypasses. Upon completion, the project will enhance the traffic capacity of the Prayagraj-Mirzapur route, improve road safety and facilitate the movement of passengers and freight. It will also foster regional trade, tourism and economic activities by easing the transportation of agricultural produce and industrial/commercial goods. Officials said the alignment of both projects has already been approved at the ministry level. The purpose of the meeting was to ensure coordination among the departments involved. Project layouts were presented and department-specific issues discussed. Divisional commissioner offered significant suggestions aimed at strengthening economic activities in the southern region of Prayagraj. He noted that the proposed connectivity is primarily directed towards northern Prayagraj, whereas there is a need to further boost economic activities in southern Prayagraj. He suggested examining the feasibility of linking any potential routes or connectivity associated with the project to southern Prayagraj as well. PDA vice-chairman Rishi Raj suggested improving National Highway connectivity to the proposed Aero City, the Naini industrial hub, the proposed metro corridor and Leprosy Crossing in Naini. He said better integration of the proposed connectivity links would accelerate industrial, commercial and economic activity in the region. Highlighting the traffic congestion that arises when heavy traffic from Mirzapur is barred from entering Prayagraj city during the Magh Mela and Kumbh, he emphasised the need to divert traffic via alternative routes. In response, NHAI officials informed him that work on establishing such connectivity via the Ring Road is already underway. Suggestions were also made to improve connectivity in the Sirsa area and strengthen the existing brownfield route to facilitate smoother traffic management during the fair period. This, officials said, would help ensure seamless traffic flow during the Magh Mela and Kumbh.
