In a significant move towards enhancing regional connectivity, the Commerce and Industry Ministry recently unveiled the Ayodhya Bypass Project, a pivotal component of the PM GatiShakti initiative. This 67.57-kilometer bypass in Uttar Pradesh, strategically developed to streamline freight flows and ease congestion in Ayodhya, stands as a catalyst for broader regional development and logistical efficiency.
Over the past two years, the Network Planning Group (NPG) has spearheaded 64 meetings under the leadership of PM GatiShakti, focusing on the comprehensive socio-economic development of over 131 infrastructure projects. The Ayodhya Bypass Project emerged as a critical infrastructure initiative during the 52nd NPG meeting, highlighting its pivotal role in the region.
Ayodhya Bypass Project Overview:
Spanning 67.57 kilometers, the Ayodhya Bypass Project encompasses the construction of the 4/6 Lane Northern Ayodhya Bypass (35.40 km) and 4/6 Lane Southern Ayodhya Bypass (32.172 km). This greenfield venture traverses key districts like Lucknow, Basti, and Gonda, fostering connectivity to economic, social, and logistical nodes, including tourist and pilgrim sites.
Addressing Economic Hubs and Congestion Challenges:
Strategically positioned between Lucknow and Gorakhpur, Ayodhya is a vital link for major commodities such as leather, engineering goods, and building materials. The Ayodhya Bypass aims to ensure uninterrupted freight flows, alleviate city congestion, and facilitate smoother transportation of goods.
Improving Connectivity to National Highways:
Anticipating a surge in passenger and freight movement, the Ayodhya Bypass targets eight influence areas around Ayodhya. This strategic initiative aims to reduce travel time to critical national highways, including NH-27, NH-330A, NH-330, and NH-135A.
Multi-Modal Enhancement:
Integrating with existing infrastructure like railway stations and the Ayodhya Airport, the Ayodhya Bypass Project adopts a multi-modal approach, streamlining the movement of people and goods and fostering economic development in the region.
Synergies with Other Proposed Projects:
Envisioned to complement other proposed projects evaluated in NPG meetings, including the Prayagraj – Raibareili Project, Gorakhpur-Siliguri Corridor, and Gorakhpur-Bareilly Corridor, the Ayodhya Bypass Project contributes to a cohesive regional development strategy.
Ayodhya’s Overall Infrastructure Significance:
Beyond its cultural and historical importance, Ayodhya plays a pivotal role in the overall development and connectivity of the surrounding areas, with recent developments like the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport and the redeveloped Ayodhya Dham Junction Railway Station contributing to enhanced connectivity and regional economic development.
Key Highlights of Ayodhya Bypass Project:
- Major Commodities: Includes manufacturing items, perishable groceries, and oil, gas, iron, steel & wood.
- Efficiencies Unleashed: Featuring a 5 km length reduction, a 66.67% travel time reduction, a 250% increment in average speed, and generating 80 lakh person-days of employment.
- Environmental Impact: Boasting a 50 lakh liter fuel reduction annually, a 1 crore kg reduction in carbon footprints, and a commitment to using recyclable/reusable materials in construction, emphasizing sustainable practices.
This comprehensive initiative underscores the Ayodhya Bypass Project’s role as a transformative force, aligning seamlessly with the broader goals of PM GatiShakti to boost connectivity and propel regional development.