UP Expressways Speed Limit Cut to 80 km/h Amid Dense Fog to Boost Road Safety

Lucknow | December 17, 2025 In a major move to improve road safety during winter months, the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) has announced a reduction in speed limits on all expressways across the state from 120 km/h to 80 km/h. The new limit, aimed at curbing accidents caused by dense fog, will be effective immediately and remain in force until February 15, officials said. Uttar Pradesh, which has the largest network of expressways in the country, has witnessed a series of accidents in recent days attributed to poor visibility due to heavy fog. Officials emphasized that the speed reduction is a proactive step to prevent further mishaps and ensure safer travel for commuters, particularly during early morning and night hours when fog tends to be thickest. Rajesh Pandey, nodal officer for road safety and security at UPEIDA, said several measures are already being implemented to enhance safety on expressways. “We have rolled out multiple initiatives to check accidents, and the process has already begun,” he said. One key measure is the use of red reflector tapes on large vehicles, especially trucks and trailers. These tapes are made of high-intensity reflective material to improve nighttime visibility in foggy conditions, acting as an additional safety layer for drivers. UPEIDA will also use public address systems at all toll plazas to inform commuters about fog conditions ahead on expressways. Drivers will receive real-time updates on visibility and road conditions, helping them adjust their speed and drive safely. Road markings are also being upgraded. Yellow and white strips, which guide vehicles and keep them within lanes, are being refurbished across all expressways. These markings are crucial during fog as they provide visual cues that prevent vehicles from straying into oncoming traffic lanes, reducing the risk of collisions. Safety infrastructure along expressways is being strengthened further. Every five kilometers, two petrol vehicles and two safety vehicles are stationed to respond quickly to emergencies. Cranes and hydras are strategically positioned every 50 kilometers to assist in clearing accidents or removing broken-down vehicles, ensuring traffic flow is maintained and reducing risks to other motorists. The speed limit reduction and accompanying safety measures are part of a broader effort by UPEIDA and the state government to address road safety challenges during the fog season. Officials urged commuters to follow the new speed regulations strictly, remain vigilant, and take necessary precautions while travelling, especially in low-visibility conditions. Authorities said the combined measures — including speed reduction, enhanced vehicle visibility, upgraded road markings, real-time updates, and emergency readiness — are expected to significantly reduce accidents on UP expressways during the winter months, making travel safer for everyone. UP Expressways Speed Limit Cut to 80 km/h Amid Dense Fog to Boost Road Safety Uttar Pradesh has announced a major safety move on its expressways as dense fog continues to affect visibility across the state. The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) has reduced the speed limit on all expressways from 120 km/h to 80 km/h, effective immediately and in force until February 15. The step comes after a series of accidents in recent days linked to poor visibility. Rajesh Pandey, nodal officer for road safety and security at UPEIDA, said the measure is part of multiple initiatives to prevent accidents during the fog season. In addition to reducing speed, officials will inform commuters about fog conditions ahead through public address systems at all toll plazas. Drivers will receive real-time updates to help them adjust their driving and stay safe. To further improve safety, UPEIDA is installing red reflector tapes on large vehicles like trucks and trailers. Made from high-intensity reflective material, these tapes enhance visibility at night and act as an additional safety layer in foggy conditions. Road markings are also being upgraded, with yellow and white strips being refurbished across expressways to provide clear visual guidance to drivers and prevent lane straying. Emergency preparedness has also been strengthened. Every five kilometers, two petrol vehicles and two safety vehicles are stationed to respond quickly to accidents or breakdowns. Cranes and hydras are positioned every 50 kilometers to remove damaged vehicles and maintain traffic flow. Officials emphasized that these combined measures — lower speed limits, better visibility, upgraded markings, real-time alerts, and emergency readiness — are expected to significantly reduce accidents and make travel safer. Commuters have been urged to strictly follow the new speed limit and drive cautiously, especially in foggy conditions. With these steps, UPEIDA and the state government aim to protect lives and ensure smoother journeys across Uttar Pradesh’s extensive expressway network this winter.