LUCKNOW, July 10 -- The Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway has run into last-minute challenges ahead of its scheduled inauguration on July 13. Monsoon rain has washed away embankments at several locations and damaged safety fencing has exposed gaps in access control. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) said repair work is underway and all deficiencies will be rectified before the expressway opens. Rain-triggered erosion has washed away embankments at multiple locations in Unnao district, including Patkapur, Mangatkhera and Turi in the Purwa area. The erosion has left deep craters along the shoulders of the 63-km expressway. Portions of slope protection and adjoining concrete structures have been damaged after the supporting soil washed away. The damage surfaced before the access-controlled corridor opens to traffic, prompting the construction agency to begin restoration. NHAI has also reported damage to safety fencing installed to prevent cattle and pedestrians from entering the expressway. Between five and 15 feet of fencing is missing at several stretches, raising concerns over unauthorised access once traffic begins. Officials alleged that villagers cut the fencing to create direct access to the expressway and, in some places, also damaged the supporting wall. NHAI said it is preparing to lodge police complaints against those identified for damaging government property. Project director Nakul Verma said restoration of rain-affected stretches is progressing and repairs will be completed before the inauguration. Action would be initiated against anyone found responsible, he added. The expressway will be inaugurated by defence minister Rajnath Singh, Union road transport & highways minister Nitin Gadkari and CM Yogi Adityanath. It is expected to reduce travel time between Lucknow and Kanpur to around 45 minutes....