The Purvanchal Expressway, a key infrastructure project enhancing connectivity in eastern Uttar Pradesh, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 16, 2021. Described as the spine of the economy of eastern Uttar Pradesh by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the expressway starts at Chand Saray village in Lucknow and ends at Haidaria village in Ghazipur.
Recognized as one of the most significant projects completed under the Yogi-led government, the expressway not only connects major cities within Uttar Pradesh but is also set for expansion. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Bihar government have initiated steps to extend it beyond Ghazipur into Bihar, further strengthening regional connectivity. Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh government has sanctioned the Vindhya-Purvanchal Link Expressway, which will connect Chandauli on the Vindhya Expressway to Ghazipur, creating a crucial link between the Ganga and Purvanchal Expressways. The expansion of the Ganga Expressway will also integrate with the Purvanchal Expressway in Ghazipur, enabling a faster route between Western Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
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Purvanchal Expressway: Key facts
Feature | Details |
Purvanchal Expressway starting point | Chand Sarai village in Lucknow |
Purvanchal Expressway end point | Haidaria in Ghazipur (near Bihar border) |
Purvanchal Expressway length | 343 km (official), operational length is 340.824 km |
Cities connected | Lucknow, Barabanki, Amethi, Sultanpur, Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Azamgarh, Mau, Ghazipur |
Distance from Agra–Lucknow Expressway | Approx. 15 km (via Lucknow ring road) |
Mode of implementation | PPP (Public–Private Partnership) |
Number of rest areas | 3 (one in each maintenance zone) |
Inauguration date | November 16, 2021 |
Project cost | ₹22,494.66 crore (including cost of land) |
Is it the longest expressway in India? | No, but one of the longest; Delhi–Mumbai Expressway is longer |
Purvanchal Expressway: Latest update
Plans announced to extend access from the Purvanchal Expressway to the Lucknow-Kanpur Highway
The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a project to enhance connectivity between Kanpur, Lucknow, and Ayodhya by upgrading a 38-kilometer stretch from Bani to Maurawan into a four-lane highway. This upgraded route will pass through Mohanlalganj and Gosainganj, seamlessly linking the Kanpur-Lucknow Highway to the Purvanchal Expressway. This development aims to facilitate smoother and faster travel between these major cities.
Purvanchal Expressway to Bihar: New Links Underway via NH-727B and Greenfield Corridor
As of February 2025, the Bihar government and NHAI have commenced the process of linking the Purvanchal Expressway to Bihar through multiple projects:
- NH-727B Expansion: A new highway from Tamkuhi (UP) to Salempur (UP) via Gopalganj (Bihar) is under development. Land acquisition in Bihar (Bhore block, Gopalganj) started in January 2025.
- Greenfield Link (17 km): Approved in 2022, this four-lane connector will seamlessly link the expressway with Bihar. Construction progress updates are awaited.
- Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway: A proposed 350 km corridor from Buxar to Bhagalpur via Patna is expected to boost interstate connectivity.
The proposed expansions aim to shorten travel time between eastern UP and Bihar, facilitating trade, commerce, and industrial growth.
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Purvanchal Expressway’s current status
The Purvanchal Expressway is fully operational, connecting Lucknow to Ghazipur and improving access to cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur. A 38 km link from the Lucknow-Kanpur Highway is under development, and Bihar connectivity projects via NH-727B and a Greenfield Link are underway. Link expressways to Ballia and Gorakhpur are also progressing to enhance regional connectivity.
Purvanchal Expressway route map 2025
(Source: UPEIDA)
Check out this Purvanchal Expressway map to know more about the connectivity net.
The Purvanchal Expressway route has established a direct link between Delhi and eastern UP while also linking it to the Bihar border. The 343-km highway starts at Chand Saray village in Lucknow, located on the Lucknow-Sultanpur road (NH-731) and terminates at Ghazipur’s Haidaria village on the NH31. In the middle, the Purvanchal expressway route also has Barabanki, Amethi, Sultanpur, Ayodhya, Ambedkarnagar and Mau. In effect, the Purvanchal expressway connects nine districts in UP. It will also be connected with other cities of religious importance like Varanasi, Ayodhya, and Gorakhpur by linking roads.
With the opening of Uttar Pradesh’s most extended expressway project, cities in the underdeveloped eastern part of UP, would get a direct connection with state capital Lucknow. The expressway will not only reduce the travel time between Ghazipur to Lucknow by half – from 12 to six hours – but also provide direct connectivity from these cities to the national capital. Once completed, it would be only a 10-hour drive from Ghazipur to Delhi.
Recall here that Uttar Pradesh’s capital Lucknow is already directly connected with Delhi through the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, the Yamuna Expressway and the Agra-Lucknow Expressway. A proposal is also being worked on to expand the Purvanchal Expressway route and connect it with Bihar from Ghazipur.
Purvanchal Expressway project packages
Package I: From Chand Sarai (Lucknow) to Sansara (Barabanki) | Download PDF |
Package II: From Sansara (Barabanki) to Jaraikala (Amethi) | Download PDF |
Package III: From Jaraikala (Amethi) to Sidhi Ganeshpur (Sultanpur) | Download PDF |
Package IV: From Sidhi Ganeshpur (Sultanpur) to Sansarpur (Sultanpur) | Download PDF |
Package V: From Sansarpur (Sultanpur) to Gobindpur (Azamgarh) | Download PDF |
Package VI: From Gobindpur (Azamgarh) to Mojrapur (Azamgarh) | Download PDF |
Package VII: From Mojrapur (Azamgarh) to Bijaura (Ghazipur) | Download PDF |
Package VIII: From Bijaura (Ghazipur) to Haidariya (Ghazipur) | Download PDF |
Cities connected by Purvanchal Expressway
The expressway traverses nine districts, connecting several key cities and towns:
- Lucknow: The state capital, serving as the western terminus of the expressway.
- Barabanki: A district neighbouring Lucknow known for its historical significance.
- Amethi: A prominent political constituency that is developing infrastructure.
- Sultanpur: A city with cultural heritage and growing economic activities.
- Ayodhya: A city of immense religious importance, now more accessible via the expressway.
- Ambedkar Nagar: An emerging district with potential for industrial growth.
- Azamgarh: A major urban centre in eastern Uttar Pradesh that benefits from improved connectivity.
- Mau is known for its textile industry and is now better linked to larger markets.
- Ghazipur: The expressway’s eastern terminus facilitates access to Bihar and other eastern regions.
Additionally, the expressway is designed to integrate with other major highways and proposed link roads, such as the Gorakhpur Link Expressway at Salarpur village in Azamgarh district, further enhancing regional connectivity.
Purvanchal expressway toll
The Purvanchal Expressway toll is collected to maintain and operate this high-speed corridor efficiently. Managed by the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), the Purvanchal Expressway toll price varies based on vehicle type and distance travelled. The toll system is fully electronic, using FASTag for quick, cashless transactions.
Toll collection began after the expressway was opened to the public. The Purvanchal Expressway toll tax is calculated per kilometre and is consistent with National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) guidelines. Toll plazas are strategically located to ensure coverage and effective traffic regulation.
If you’re travelling the full 340.824 km stretch, you’ll encounter tolls at multiple plazas. Below is a brief Purvanchal Expressway toll plaza list along with sample rates for different vehicle types.
Purvanchal expressway toll price (one-way)
Vehicle type | Toll tax for full route |
Car / Jeep / Van | ₹675 |
Light Commercial Vehicle | ₹1,065 |
Bus / Truck (2 Axle) | ₹2,145 |
3-Axle Commercial Vehicle | ₹2,620 |
Heavy Vehicle (4–6 Axle) | ₹3,285 |
Oversized Vehicles | ₹4,015 |
Purvanchal expressway toll plaza list
- Lucknow (Chand Sarai)
- Barabanki
- Amethi
- Sultanpur
- Ayodhya
- Ambedkar Nagar
- Azamgarh
- Mau
- Ghazipur (Haidaria)
Each plaza collects toll proportionate to the distance covered. For exact Purvanchal Expressway toll tax based on your entry and exit points, FASTag-enabled systems auto-calculate and deduct the correct amount.
Purvanchal Expressway: Project highlightsPurvanchal expressway start and end points: The Purvanchal Expressway starts at Chand Saray village in Lucknow district and ends at Haidaria village in Ghazipur district. Implementation: In 8 packages Purvanchal Expressway start and end point:
Total length: 340.824 km Project Cost: Rs 22,494.66 crore (including the cost of land) Districts covered: Lucknow, Barabanki, Amethi, Sultanpur, Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Azamgarh, Mau, Ghazipur Width: Six-lane wide, expandable to 6 lanes (15 m on each side, total 30 m with a median of 5.50 m.) Width of the right of way (ROW): 120-m wide land corridor Service Road: 3.75-m black top staggered on either side of the expressway to facilitate easy movement for the inhabitants of adjacent villages, total length 402 km. Airstrip: 3.20 km long and 34-m wide Fuel stations: 8 CNG stations: 4 Tree plantations: 4.50 lakh Rainwater Harvesting: RWH pits are constructed as required by geological conditions in the ROW at every 500 m. Lighting: Lighting at interchanges, flyovers, major bridges, minor bridges and underpasses with solar backup Design speed: 120 km/hr; speed Limit fixed at 100 km/hr Toilet blocks: 8 Ambulances: 16 in each package Launch year: October 2015 Opening deadline: October 2021 Inauguration: November 16, 2021 by deaPrime Minister Narendra Modi Owner-operator: Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) Project model: Engineering, procurement and construction |
See also: All you need to know about Agra Lucknow Expressway
Purvanchal Expressway timeline
Date | Event |
January 2025 | Plans announced to extend access from the Purvanchal Expressway to the Lucknow-Kanpur Highway, enhancing connectivity between Kanpur and Ayodhya. |
June 2023 | The expressway was temporarily closed until June 25 for maintenance work on the Indian Air Force airstrip in Sultanpur district. |
November 2021 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Purvanchal Expressway. |
September 2021 | 97% of construction work completed. |
July 2021 | 95% of construction work completed. |
August 2020 | 52% of construction work completed. |
June 2019 | 10% of construction work completed. |
October 2018 | Construction work officially began. |
July 2018 | Foundation stone laid by PM Narendra Modi for Lucknow–Azamgarh–Ghazipur Expressway; tenders awarded to five firms. |
April 2018 | 90% of the land was acquired, and a Request for Proposal was issued. |
September 2017 | 60% of the land was acquired. |
May 2017 | Yogi Adityanath government issued fresh tenders for land acquisition. |
December 2016 | Foundation stone laid by Akhilesh Yadav for the Lucknow–Azamgarh–Ballia route. |
November 2015 | The expressway was renamed the Purvanchal Expressway. |
May 2015 | Former CM Akhilesh Yadav announced the Lucknow–Azamgarh–Ballia Expressway. |
Purvanchal Expressway route 2025
- Lucknow
- Barabanki
- Sultanpur
- Ayodhya
- Ambedkar Nagar
- Azamgarh
- Mau
- Ghazipur
If connectivity networks are telling signs of a state’s economic progress, the Uttar Pradesh government has been taking significant efforts to upgrade its road networks. The Purvanchal Expressway is a case in point. The route of Purvanchal Expressway includes key cities in eastern UP. The Purvanchal Expressway route is meant to provide the under-developed towns in India’s most populous state an economic boost through better connectivity. Apart from Lucknow and possibly Barabanki, all other cities on the Purvanchal Expressway route are under-developed cities.
Meanwhile, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is also considering the possibility of extending the length of Purvanchal Expressway in Uttar Pradesh from Buxar to Bhagalpur in Bihar. The NHAI has been asked to submit a possible alignment of the project along with feasibility to the Bihar’s road construction department.
See also: All about the Samruddhi Mahamarg Mumbai Nagpur expressway
Purvanchal Expressway constructions
See also: Eastern peripheral expressway
Purvanchal Expressway: Benefits
The Purvanchal Expressway has significantly enhanced Uttar Pradesh’s infrastructure, driving economic growth and improving connectivity. Key impacts include:
Reduced travel time: This expressway has substantially decreased travel durations between eastern Uttar Pradesh and major cities like Lucknow and Delhi, boosting industrial productivity and facilitating smoother commutes.
Enhanced transportation convenience: Serving as a vital link, the Purvanchal Expressway connects the state’s eastern regions with the National Capital Region, integrating seamlessly with the Agra-Lucknow and Yamuna Expressways.
Improved regional connectivity: By traversing underdeveloped districts, the expressway fosters social and economic development, linking these areas to urban centers and promoting regional growth.
Real estate development: The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority is spearheading industrial hubs along the expressway, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic progress in adjacent districts.
Advancement of educational and medical facilities: Plans are underway to establish educational and healthcare institutions along the expressway, aiming to elevate the quality of life for local residents.
Purvanchal Expressway significance
The Purvanchal Expressway is one of the four six-lane access-controlled expressways (the Bundelkhand Expressway, the Gorakhpur Link Expressway and the Ganga Expressway being the other three) that are likely to remarkably transform Uttar Pradesh, making it the state with the largest expressway network in India. Upon completion of these four expressway projects, Uttar Pradesh will boast of 1,788 kms of expressways, the highest in the country.
The Purvanchal Expressway is going to give a boost to the economic development of eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, especially the districts of Lucknow, Barabanki, Amethi, Ayodhya, Sultanpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Azamgarh, Mau and Ghazipur. This is also evident from the fact that CM Adityanath has said that eight industrial hubs will be established along the Purvanchal Expressway.
See also: Upcoming expressways in India
Purvanchal Expressway construction cost
Estimated to cost Rs 22,496 crore, the Purvanchal Expressway not only connects several central districts of the state with the eastern ones but also places these districts in a direct road connectivity network leading to the national capital Delhi. The expressway, with seven bridges and 22 flyovers, also boasts an airstrip that would allow emergency landing of flights.
Purvanchal Expressway: Religious places on the route
The Purvanchal Expressway has greatly improved connectivity to several important religious cities in Uttar Pradesh, including Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, and Varanasi. These cities, known for their religious significance, have also seen infrastructure development alongside the expressway. The expressway has made travel more accessible for devotees, especially during festivals, reducing travel time between Ghazipur and Lucknow from 12 to 6 hours. Delhi is now connected to these cities via the Yamuna, Agra-Lucknow, and Purvanchal Expressways.
Ayodhya: Known as the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya has become a major attraction, especially with the construction of the Ram Mandir. Situated on the banks of the Saryu River, it is now easily accessible via the Purvanchal Expressway, reducing travel time from Lucknow by 1 hour.
Gorakhpur: This city, Uttar Pradesh’s Chief Minister’s constituency is home to the famous Gorakhnath Temple. Gorakhpur has seen significant infrastructure growth, and the Purvanchal Expressway has cut travel time from Lucknow by 2 hours.
Varanasi: A central religious and cultural hub, Varanasi attracts both tourists and students, particularly to Banaras Hindu University. The city is also known for its silk weaving and craft industries. The expressway has reduced the travel time from Lucknow to Varanasi from 7 hours to 5.5 hours, making it easier for visitors and boosting local industries.
Entry and exit points on the Purvanchal Expressway
Below you can find out the purvanchal expressway start and end points:
Name of the intersecting road | Type of structure |
National Highway or NH-56/731 | Trumpet Interchange |
Haidergarh to Barabanki Road | Slip Roads and a toll booth |
Inhauna to Rudauli Road | Slip Roads and a toll booth |
Raebareli to Faizabad Road | Interchange and a Toll Plaza |
Sultanpur to Faizabad Road | Interchange and a Toll Plaza |
Sultanpur to Akbarpur Road | Interchange and a Toll Plaza |
Akbarpur to Dostpur Road | Slip Roads and a toll booth |
Akbarpur to Jaunpur Road | Slip Roads and a toll booth |
Azamgarh to Tanda Road | Interchange and a Toll Plaza |
Azamgarh to Mau Road | Slip Roads and a toll booth |
Mau to Ghazipur Road | Interchange and a Toll Plaza |
Ballia Link Road (upcoming) | Slip Roads with toll booth |
National Highway Road or NH19 | Trumpet Interchange |
Purvanchal Expressway: Contractors
Contractor | Package | Length in Kms |
Gayatri Projects | Chand Saray (Lucknow)–Sansara (Barabanki) | 40.4 |
Sansara (Barabanki)–Jarai Kalan (Amethi) | 39.7 | |
Apco Infratech | Jarai Kalan (Amethi)–Siddhi Ganeshpur (Sultanpur) | 41.7 |
GR Infraprojects | Siddhi Ganeshpur (Sultanpur)–Sansarpur (Sultanpur) | 42.7 |
Mojrapur (Azamgarh)–Bijaura (Ghazipur) | 46.0 | |
PNC Infratech | Sansarpur (Sultanpur)–Govindpur (Azamgarh) | 54.0 |
Govindpur (Azamgarh)–Mojrapur (Azamgarh) | 28.2 | |
Oriental Structural Engineers | Bijaura (Ghazipur)–Haydaria (Ghazipur) | 48.0 |
Connectivity with other expressways
Prayagraj-Dohrighat Corridor: A 4-lane route linking Prayagraj, Jaunpur, and Azamgarh to the Purvanchal Expressway, along with 11 national highways, two state highways, five railway stations, and two airports.
Ballia Link Expressway: Connects Patna to Lucknow via the Purvanchal Expressway in just 4.5 hours.
Agra-Lucknow Expressway: Planned to link with the Purvanchal Expressway for seamless travel across Uttar Pradesh.
Gorakhpur Link Expressway: Joins the Purvanchal Expressway at Salarpur village in Azamgarh district.
Purvanchal Expressway-Bihar link: NHAI is evaluating a new expressway connecting Ghazipur to Buxar and Bhagalpur, expected to further integrate Bihar with UP’s expressway network.
Technological integration on Purvanchal Expressway
The Purvanchal Expressway incorporates several advanced technological features to enhance safety, efficiency, and user experience:
- Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS): The expressway is equipped with an ITMS that monitors traffic flow, detects incidents, and manages congestion. This system utilizes sensors and cameras to provide real-time data, enabling prompt responses to traffic conditions.
- Electronic Toll Collection (ETC): To facilitate seamless travel, the expressway employs ETC systems, allowing vehicles to pass through toll plazas without stopping. This reduces travel time and minimizes fuel consumption.
- Surveillance Mechanisms: A network of CCTV cameras is installed along the expressway to monitor activities and ensure security. These cameras aid in traffic management and assist law enforcement agencies in maintaining safety.
These technological integrations position the Purvanchal Expressway as a modern infrastructure project, aligning with global standards and enhancing the overall travel experience for users.
Safety and security measures
The Purvanchal Expressway has implemented several safety and security measures to ensure the well-being of travelers:
- Structural safety features: The expressway is equipped with metal beam crash barriers on both sides of the lanes and the median, caution boards, chevrons, and median markers to enhance road safety.
- Emergency response systems: To manage accidents or emergencies, ambulances with life support systems are stationed along the expressway. A total of 16 ambulances are available in each package to provide prompt medical assistance.
- Traffic management and surveillance: The expressway incorporates an advanced traffic management system and fencing to prevent stray animals from entering the roadway. Teams are present at different spots to manage any animals that may come onto the expressway.
These measures collectively aim to provide a safe and secure travel experience for all users of the Purvanchal Expressway.
Contact information – Purvanchal Expressway
- Helpline numbers: 18008894776, 18008895776
- Other toll-free numbers: 8810771898, 8810771899
- Office address:
C-13, 2nd Floor, PARYATAN Bhawan,
Vipin Khand, Gomti Nagar,
Lucknow – 226010 - Email addresses:
– ceo.eida_upz@gov.in
– dceo.eida_up@gov.in
Purvanchal Expressway: Toll rates in 2025
Starting April 1, 2023, toll rates have been increased between 0.1% and 2.9% to travel on the Purvanchal Expressway. Find below the toll rate list, effective since April 1, 2023:
Vehicle type | Toll rate in 2025 |
Cars, jeeps, vans, other lightweight vehicles |
Rs 675 |
Light commercial vehicle, minibus | Rs 1,065 |
Bus, truck | Rs 2,145 |
Multi-axle vehicles (MAV) (3 to 6 axles), heavy construction machinery, geo-moving equipment | Rs 3,285 |
Vehicles with 7 or more axles | Rs 4,185 |
Purvanchal Expressway: Economic and real estate impact – Rework
The Purvanchal Expressway, inaugurated in November 2021, has significantly influenced the economic landscape and real estate sector of eastern Uttar Pradesh. However, its development journey was accompanied by several challenges.
Economic impact
The expressway has bolstered economic development in the region by enhancing connectivity, facilitating smoother transportation of goods and people, and stimulating sectors such as agriculture, commerce, tourism, and industry. The construction phase generated substantial employment opportunities for local workers, further invigorating the local economy. To capitalise on improved connectivity, the Uttar Pradesh government plans to establish 32 industrial cities along significant expressways, including the Purvanchal Expressway, aiming to create jobs and elevate the state’s GDP.
Real estate impact
The enhanced connectivity has led to a notable surge in real estate activities along the expressway corridor. Property prices in areas adjacent to the expressway have increased, attracting residential and commercial investments. Experts anticipate that the expressway will primarily benefit real estate in Lucknow and the districts it traverses, with multiple development projects planned along its route. Infrastructure developments, such as the Purvanchal Express City in Lucknow, have emerged, offering residential and commercial spaces to meet the growing demand. The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) has been authorised to develop industrial hubs along the highway, further boosting the region’s economic activities and real estate development.
Challenges and hurdles
The development of the Purvanchal Expressway faced several challenges:
- Land acquisition: Securing land for the expressway required negotiations with numerous landowners, leading to delays and increased project costs.
- Political opposition: Infrastructure projects in Uttar Pradesh have historically encountered political resistance. For instance, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati accused political rivals of hindering the Ganga Expressway project during her tenure, reflecting the political challenges that can impede such developments.
- Environmental concerns: The construction raised environmental issues, necessitating assessments and clearances to mitigate ecological impacts.
- Funding constraints: Allocating substantial financial resources for the project posed challenges, requiring careful planning and budget management.
Housing.com POV
Connectivity and road building are the most significant indicators of our political and administrative development. The Purvanchal Expressway is the next big thing on the government’s radar for boosting infrastructure and connectivity. Further, through the Purvanchal Expressway, rapid movement of defence personnel and equipment during emergencies in the eastern border regions of UP, aiding in strengthening national security infrastructure. As it is an access-controlled expressway, chances of accidents will significantly reduce and people will benefit from saved fuel and lesser pollution levels.
FAQs
Is Purvanchal Expressway open?
The Purvanchal Expressway opens on November 16, 2021.
Who started Purvanchal Expressway?
The Purvanchal Expressway was announced in May 2015 as the Lucknow-Azamgarh-Ballia Expressway and launched as the Purvanchal Expressway in October 2015.
When was the Purvanchal Expressway first announced?
The Purvanchal Expressway was first announced in May 2015 by former CM Akhilesh Yadav as the Lucknow–Azamgarh–Ballia Expressway.
Why was the expressway renamed Purvanchal Expressway?
It was renamed in November 2015 to reflect its focus on the Purvanchal region.
What is the significance of the Purvanchal Expressway for UP?
It improves connectivity between eastern UP districts and facilitates smoother transport.
How long did it take to complete the construction of the expressway?
Construction started in October 2018 and was completed by September 2021, taking almost three years.
Why the toll rate is different at two toll plazas?
Toll fee on each toll plaza is based on stretch length under that plaza, structures (bridge, tunnel, bypass) and width of the highways, applicable fee rules and provisions of the concessions agreement.
Are former servicemen exempted from payment of toll fee?
No, former servicemen are not exempted from payment of toll fee.
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