NHAI Takes Strict Action Against Concessionaire, Consultant and Officials on Kanpur–Lucknow Expressway Issues
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken comprehensive disciplinary action against multiple stakeholders following the identification of structural issues on the Kanpur-Lucknow Expressway. The incident involved a slippage of approximately 300 meters observed near km 64 (RHS) on July 26, 2026, affecting a small portion of the 63-km expressway. Immediate traffic diversion was implemented, allowing smooth vehicle movement while restoration works commenced.
NHAI issued a non-performer notice to concessionaire M/s PNC Infratech Ltd., proposing to declare the company ineligible for future NHAI project bids. Additionally, a show cause notice mandates: (a) levy of 2% penalty on performance security, (b) initiation of debarment proceedings for up to three years against Head of Pavement/Highways and responsible staff, and (c) downgrade of the concessionaire's Pavement Condition Index rating affecting future project eligibility. The concessionaire must undertake complete rectification of the affected stretch at its own cost, currently estimated at approximately ₹3 crores, with no financial implication on NHAI.
Disciplinary actions extend to officials responsible for project monitoring lapses. Project Manager Shri Vivek Kumar Gupta (construction agency), Team Leader Shri Surendra Kumar (Independent Engineer), and Resident Engineer Shri Yatendra Kumar have been removed from the project and debarred from participating in any Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), NHAI, and National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) projects for two years. Current Project Director Shri Nakul Prakash Verma has been repatriated to his parent department, while charge sheets are being issued against both former Project Director Shri Saurabh Chaurasia (during substantial construction) and Shri Nakul Prakash Verma for alleged negligence.
NHAI is issuing a debarment notice to M/s Theme Engineering Services Pvt. Ltd., the Independent Engineer for the project, proposing exclusion from future NHAI projects.
Corrective measures include deployment of Laser Profilometer technology for detailed pavement condition assessment across the project stretch and engagement of an expert investigation team led by Professor K. S. Reddy of IIT Kharagpur to examine underlying causes and recommend measures. Toll collection has been suspended until complete rectification, with commuters not charged for using the expressway, and toll loss recovery will be made from the concessionaire.