The Ganga Expressway is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh government to enhance connectivity and economic development across the state. Stretching approximately 594 kilometers, this six-lane expressway is expected to be one of India’s longest and most significant road projects, linking Meerut in Western Uttar Pradesh to Prayagraj in the east.
While the expressway is seen as a game-changer for regional development, it has also encountered challenges, particularly concerning land acquisition and compensation for farmers whose lands have been acquired for the project. Recently, MLC Dharmendra Singh raised concerns in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council, highlighting the plight of farmers in Varanasi’s Sadar tehsil, where several villages have not received compensation for their acquired land. This article explores the compensation challenges, the government’s response, and the way forward for the Ganga Expressway project.
Overview of the Ganga Expressway
The Ganga Expressway is designed to provide high-speed connectivity across major districts in Uttar Pradesh. The primary objective of the expressway is to reduce travel time and enhance economic growth by facilitating the movement of goods and people more efficiently. The expressway will pass through 12 districts, including Meerut, Hapur, Bulandshahr, Amroha, Sambhal, Budaun, Shahjahanpur, Hardoi, Unnao, Raebareli, Pratapgarh, and Prayagraj.
Key Features of the Ganga Expressway
- Length: 594 kilometers (with potential extensions in the future)
- Lanes: Initially six lanes, expandable to eight lanes
- Project Cost: Estimated at ₹36,230 crore
- Expected Completion: 2025
- Land Required: Around 6,800 hectares
- Industrial Corridors: Planned along the expressway to boost economic activities
- Impact on Farmers: Over 60,000 farmers affected across different districts
The project aims to reduce travel time from Meerut to Prayagraj to just 6-7 hours, benefiting trade, tourism, and agriculture. However, the success of such a large-scale project depends on a smooth land acquisition process and fair compensation for affected farmers.
Land Acquisition and Compensation Challenges
One of the biggest hurdles in the execution of the Ganga Expressway has been land acquisition disputes. Farmers in several districts have expressed dissatisfaction over delayed or inadequate compensation. The issue has gained prominence in Varanasi, where MLC Dharmendra Singh raised the matter in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council.
Varanasi: Farmers Await Compensation
MLC Dharmendra Singh highlighted that farmers from several villages in Varanasi’s Sadar tehsil had not yet received compensation for their acquired land. The affected villages include:
- Pandeypur
- Ayar
- Saraiya
- Sulemapur
- Bhatpurwa Kala
- Bhatauli Kohasi
Despite repeated appeals and formal communications with government officials, the affected farmers are still awaiting their rightful payments. The delays have led to resentment and economic hardships among the local farming communities, who depend on their land for their livelihood.
Unnao: Delayed Payments Continue
In Unnao, around 1,314 hectares of land have been acquired across 76 villages. While ₹468 crore has been distributed among some farmers, many are still awaiting payments. Reports indicate that the process is sluggish, with bureaucratic delays affecting timely compensation.
Meerut: Opposition to Industrial Corridor Land Acquisition
In Meerut, farmers are protesting against the industrial corridor planned along the expressway. While 200 hectares were initially acquired, an additional 100 hectares were later included, affecting nearly 800 farmers in Govindpur, Kharkhari, and Chhatari villages. Many farmers have refused to give up their land, citing low compensation rates and concerns over losing their primary source of income. A Mahapanchayat (grand assembly) was held on November 4, 2024, to strategize further protests.
Shahjahanpur: Land Acquired for Industrial Development
In Shahjahanpur, 101 hectares of land in Guladia village have been acquired for the expressway’s industrial corridor. Farmers have been offered compensation higher than the circle rate, but the response remains mixed, with some expressing dissatisfaction over land valuation and delay in payments.
Government’s Response and Action Plan
The Uttar Pradesh government has acknowledged the concerns and is working towards resolving the compensation disputes.
Key Steps Taken by the Government
- Acknowledging Farmers’ Cooperation
- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has praised farmers for their support in giving up land for the expressway.
- As of July 2021, 6,572 hectares (90% of the required land) had been acquired, with ₹6,189 crore disbursed as compensation.
- Addressing Delayed Payments
- The government has instructed concerned departments to expedite compensation payments and address grievances swiftly.
- A grievance redressal mechanism has been set up for farmers who have not received compensation.
- Fair Compensation and Rehabilitation
- The UP Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) is ensuring that compensation is paid at rates higher than the circle rate.
- Provisions for alternative livelihood support and rehabilitation programs are under discussion.
- Dialogue with Farmer Representatives
- Farmer consultations are being held to resolve issues amicably and avoid further disputes.
- Negotiations are ongoing regarding fair pricing and adjustments for inflation.
- Setting Up Industrial Hubs
- The government is planning industrial hubs along the expressway to create employment opportunities for affected farmers.
Future Implications and the Road Ahead
The
is a transformative project, but its success hinges on resolving land acquisition issues and ensuring fair compensation to farmers. To prevent further unrest and opposition, the government must prioritize:
- Timely payment of compensation
- Fair valuation of acquired land
- Effective communication with affected farmers
- Transparency in land acquisition policies
The expressway has the potential to boost Uttar Pradesh’s economy, but only if the concerns of farmers and local communities are addressed. A well-balanced approach that ensures development without injustice to the people is essential.
Conclusion
The Ganga Expressway is set to redefine infrastructure, connectivity, and economic growth in Uttar Pradesh. However, unresolved compensation disputes remain a major hurdle in its progress.
The concerns raised in the Legislative Council regarding Varanasi’s farmers highlight the need for urgent government intervention. Ensuring prompt, fair, and transparent compensation is not just a legal obligation but a moral responsibility.
By addressing these challenges effectively, the government can ensure that the Ganga Expressway becomes a symbol of inclusive development, setting a precedent for future infrastructure projects in India.
