The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the four laning of the Sultanpur-Varanasi section (138 kms) of National Highway – 56 in Uttar Pradesh. This approval will upgrade Varanasi’s connectivity to Lucknow and other parts of Central Uttar Pradesh. The estimated cost will be around Rs.3,800 crore.

The CCEA also approved the four laning of the Varanasi to Ghazipur, Gorakhpur and further to Nepal section (200 kms) of National Highway – 29 in Uttar Pradesh. This approval will improve regional connectivity and facilitate improved movement of people and goods in the region and across the border. The estimated cost of this project is approximately Rs.4,400 crore.

The CCEA also approved the four laning/two laning with paved shoulders of the Madurai-Ramanathapuram section (115 kms) of National Highway – 49 in Tamil Nadu. The estimated cost of this project is about Rs. 1,400 crore. The project is likely to be completed in two and half years from the date of award.

Tidbits

1. Varanasi is one of the oldest cities having great cultural, historical and religious eminence. The city has huge tourism potential and it attracts tourists from all over the world.
2. Madurai is one of the ancient cities of India. It has a glorious history. The city is referred as Athens of the East because of its rich cultural heritage. It is the third largest city in Tamilnadu.
3. The origin of Madurai dates back to the Sangam period, the golden era of Tamil Literature.
4. The Madurai city has been constructed in the form of a lotus and is built around the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple.