NHAI to Develop 6-Lane Access Controlled Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway
To improve connectivity between the prominent tourist destinations of Agra and Gwalior, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated the development of an 88-kilometer, six-lane access-controlled expressway. The Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway (NH-719D) will commence from Deori village in Agra and conclude at Susera village in Gwalior. A concession agreement for the project was signed today with G.R. Infraprojects Ltd., marking a significant step in enhancing transportation infrastructure in the region.
Project Overview and Financial Details
The Agra-Gwalior Greenfield Expressway is set to be developed at a total capital cost of ₹4,613 crore, which includes land acquisition costs. The project will be executed under a Build-Operate-Transfer (Toll) model, with a concession period of 20 years, including a construction phase of 30 months. During this construction period, NHAI will provide financial support of ₹820 crore to the concessionaire, contingent on the project’s progress. This financial framework aims to ensure timely completion and adherence to safety standards.
In addition to the expressway, the agreement includes provisions for overlay and strengthening of the existing National Highway on NH-44, along with road safety improvements. The project has been awarded at a premium of 17.170% in terms of revenue shares, significantly higher than the expected premium of 2.42%. This premium will be payable starting from the second year after project completion and will increase annually by 1% of the realizable fee for the remainder of the concession period.
Impact on Connectivity and Environment
The new expressway will traverse through the states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, providing high-speed connectivity between Agra and Gwalior. This infrastructure development is expected to alleviate congestion in various cities and industrial areas along the existing Agra-Gwalior section of NH-44. By reducing travel time and enhancing logistics efficiency, the expressway will facilitate smoother commercial and freight movement between key locations such as Agra, Dholpur, Morena, and Gwalior.
Moreover, the expressway is designed with environmental considerations in mind. It will feature eight major bridges, 23 minor bridges, six flyovers, one rail-over-bridge, and 192 culverts. Notably, the project will pass through the National Chambal Wildlife Sanctuary, prompting the inclusion of wildlife mitigation measures. A cable-stayed bridge over the Chambal River is planned to protect the local ‘Gadiyal’ population, along with sound barriers and light cutters to minimize disturbances to wildlife.
Public-Private Partnership and Future Prospects
The Government of India is actively promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for infrastructure projects, particularly in the road sector. The recent signing of the concession agreement for the Agra-Gwalior expressway aligns with this initiative, which aims to enhance the development, operation, and maintenance of a world-class national highway network across the country. This approach not only fosters investment in infrastructure but also encourages innovation and efficiency in project execution.
In addition to the Agra-Gwalior project, NHAI has recently signed a concession agreement for the development of a 121-kilometer Guwahati Ring Road under the same Build-Operate-Transfer (Toll) model. These projects reflect a broader commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and connectivity, which is crucial for economic growth and regional development.
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