On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Ganga Expressway, a 594-km project in Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh, constructed at a cost of ₹36,230 crore. This six-lane expressway, which can be expanded to eight lanes, connects Meerut to Prayagraj and reduces travel time from 11 hours to 6 hours. It incorporates AI-enabled camera systems for enhanced road safety and features a 3.5 km Emergency Landing Facility for the Indian Air Force, boosting the corridor's strategic capabilities. Modi described the expressway as a lifeline for Uttar Pradesh's economy, promising improved connectivity and job creation across 12 districts. He noted that the expressway will facilitate faster market access for local farmers, enhancing their income through better transportation of goods like sports equipment, handloom products, and leather. The Prime Minister highlighted the rapid infrastructure development in Uttar Pradesh, mentioning the ongoing construction of 21 airports, including five international ones, and the establishment of industrial corridors. Modi asserted that the state is transforming from a 'BIMARU' status to a thriving economic hub, aiming for a one-trillion-dollar economy. He criticized previous governments for their failure to improve infrastructure and urged the public to remain cautious of parties that oppose development initiatives. Modi concluded by emphasizing the expressway's cultural significance, as it is named after Maa Ganga, symbolizing both heritage and progress.