LUCKNOW, May 21 -- The state government will invest Rs 4,560 crore to revamp and strengthen roads connecting sites of historical, mythological, and spiritual significance, a government spokesperson said. The initiative aims not only to ensure safer and more convenient travel for pilgrims but also to firmly establish Uttar Pradesh as the leading destination on the global religious tourism map, the official added. The project focuses on improving connectivity and enhancing the appearance of sacred routes linking major pilgrimage destinations such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, Chitrakoot, Prayagraj, Naimisharanya, and Mirzapur, as per a government communique. According to the public works department's (PWD's) plan, 272 projects will be completed under this initiative, with a total budget allocation of Rs 4,560 crore. These works will be carried out in coordination between the PWD and the religious works department (RWD) to ensure comprehensive development and seamless execution. According to the plan, the strengthening works for roads connecting important religious sites across the state have been approved by the principal secretary of the RWD. For the 272 planned projects, the focus is on roads that see an average annual traffic of around 5 lakh devotees. The projects include widening roads, repairing surfaces, building sidewalks, strengthening carriageways, lane marking, beautification, expansion, improving traffic management, and promoting road safety standards. Special attention is being given to routes where land acquisition can be minimized to ensure smoother progress....