The newly inaugurated Ganga Expressway in Uttar Pradesh has faced severe waterlogging after heavy rain, with a stretch near the Bashiratganj toll plaza in Unnao reportedly covered in nearly three feet of water.
Viral visuals show locals bringing fishing nets to the flooded road, turning the waterlogged stretch into an unusual fishing spot.
Heavy Rain Leaves Road Underwater
According to the India Meteorological Department, Unnao recorded 65 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours leading up to Saturday morning. Local residents said water began accumulating after continuous rain over two days.
Motorists reportedly struggled to cross the affected section, with some vehicles stranded and others taking alternative routes.
Questions Over Drainage
Reports said farm runoff was flowing onto the expressway, while some culverts and side drains appeared to be unable to clear the water quickly.
Officials from the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority said pumping operations had begun and attributed the problem partly to ongoing finishing and drainage work in some areas.
₹36,000-Crore Project Inaugurated in April
The 594-km Ganga Expressway connects Meerut with Prayagraj. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the project on April 29, 2026. IRB Infrastructure said the expressway was inaugurated after the project reached the operational stage, with trial traffic beginning immediately afterward.
The project has an estimated cost of more than ₹36,000 crore. Earlier in August, heavy rain also reportedly caused a 10-metre-deep crater on another section of the expressway, prompting repair work and questions about drainage and construction.
Officials Begin Water-Clearing Work
Authorities are now working to remove the accumulated water and address drainage issues at the affected location. With more rain forecast in parts of Uttar Pradesh, further monitoring of the corridor is expected.