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The Grand Trunk Road:-

The Grand Trunk (GT) Road, which spans from Afghanistan through Pakistan, India, and into Bangladesh, varies widely in lane configurations depending on the region and the section of the road. In many urban and major highway areas in India and Pakistan, GT Road has been expanded to have multiple lanes, typically ranging from 4 to 8 lanes, with separate lanes for each direction to accommodate high traffic volumes. However, in smaller towns and rural areas, GT Road may narrow down to 2 or even single-lane sections.

The number of lanes can differ significantly across different segments due to regional infrastructure development and road widening projects.

Here are 50 unique facts about GT (Grand Trunk) Road, also known as Sher Shah Suri Road, in India:

1. Historical Legacy: GT Road is one of the oldest and longest roads in Asia, dating back over 2,500 years.

2. Ancient Route: The road's original route was established during the Mauryan Empire under Emperor Chandragupta Maurya.

3. Mughal Expansion: The road was expanded and improved during the reign of Mughal Emperor Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century, who named it the Sadak-e-Azam (Great Road).

4. Route Length: The total length of the GT Road is approximately 2,400 kilometers, stretching from Chittagong in Bangladesh to Kabul in Afghanistan.

5. Crossing Borders: GT Road crosses multiple countries, including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

6. Major Indian Route: In India, it runs through states like West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi.

7. Royal Road: Historically, it was often called the "Royal Road" due to its use by emperors, traders, and armies.

8. Trade Route: GT Road served as a major trade route, facilitating commerce between the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

9. Cultural Exchange: Over centuries, it enabled cultural exchange, spreading religions, languages, and customs along its length

10. Postal System: Sher Shah Suri established a postal system along the road with horsemen delivering messages, similar to today’s courier system.

11. Kos Minars: To guide travelers, Sher Shah Suri built 'Kos Minars,' tall stone pillars that marked each 'kos' (approximately 3 km).

12. Sarais (Inns): Sher Shah Suri constructed inns (sarais) every 2-3 kos to provide travelers with lodging and food.

13. Water Wells: Wells were dug along the road to ensure a steady water supply for travelers.

14. Historical Cities: GT Road connects several historically significant cities like Delhi, Agra, Kanpur, and Amritsar.

15. Highway System: The British later adopted GT Road as part of their colonial road network and further developed it.

16. British Expansion: Under British rule, it was renamed the Grand Trunk Road and made a central part of India’s infrastructure.

17. Partition Impact: After the 1947 Partition, GT Road was divided between India and Pakistan, impacting the ease of transit.

18. Economic Lifeline: GT Road continues to be a vital economic route, supporting trade and industry along its stretch.

19. Silk Road Link: GT Road was once connected to the Silk Road, linking South Asia with China, Europe, and the Middle East.

20. Battlefields: Numerous historical battles, such as the Battles of Panipat, took place near GT Road.

21. Religious Significance: GT Road passes through important religious sites, including the Golden Temple in Amritsar and the Jama Masjid in Delhi.

22. Partition Refugees: During Partition, GT Road saw massive migrations as people moved across the new borders.

23. Colonial Expansion: The British expanded GT Road to link Calcutta (Kolkata) to Peshawar.

24. Buddhist Heritage: GT Road passes near ancient Buddhist sites like Bodh Gaya, where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment.

25. Modern Highway: Today, GT Road forms part of National Highway 1 (NH 1) in India.

26. Indo-Pak Route: GT Road serves as a major route for trade and travel between India and Pakistan at the Wagah Border.

27. Engineering Feat: Constructing and maintaining GT Road in ancient times was a remarkable engineering feat due to its scale.

28. Influence on Language: The road contributed to the spread of languages such as Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, and Bengali.

29. Architectural Landmarks: Along its route, travelers can find historical architecture from various empires, including Mughal-era monuments.

30. Poetry and Literature: GT Road has been immortalized in poetry, folk songs, and literature, reflecting its cultural impact.

31. Economic Hub: The road passes through some of India’s industrial hubs, including Ludhiana, famous for textiles.

32. Food Trail: GT Road is home to famous food stops serving dishes like Punjabi kulchas and North Indian delicacies.

33. Independence Movement: GT Road saw many protests and rallies during India’s freedom struggle.

34. Film Icon: The road has appeared in several Indian films, symbolizing journeys and adventures across India.

35. World Heritage: Some portions of GT Road are under consideration for World Heritage status due to their historical importance.

36. Sufi Shrines: The road connects several Sufi shrines, reflecting the spread of Sufism along its route.

37. Historic River Crossings: GT Road crosses major rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sutlej, with iconic bridges built over them.

38. Pilgrimage Route: GT Road serves as a pilgrimage route for people traveling to holy sites in northern India.

39. Educational Centers: GT Road connects to several historic centers of learning, like Aligarh and Allahabad.

40. Rajasthani Influence: Some sections of GT Road in Rajasthan show a blend of Mughal and Rajput architecture.

41. Military Strategic Importance: Due to its connectivity, GT Road holds military importance for India’s defense.

42. Railway Parallels: Many parts of the railway network parallel GT Road, providing dual connectivity.

43. Automotive Corridor: GT Road has become an automotive corridor, with manufacturing units of major car brands.

44. Cycling Expeditions: GT Road is popular for cycling expeditions due to its historical value and scenic views.

45. Government Maintenance: In India, GT Road is maintained by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

46. British-era Milestones: Milestones from the British era still exist along parts of GT Road in India.

47. Geographical Diversity: GT Road traverses diverse terrains, from river plains in the east to the arid lands of Rajasthan.

48. Indo-Gangetic Plain: A significant portion of GT Road passes through the fertile Indo-Gangetic plain, supporting agriculture.

49. Symbol of Unity: GT Road has long been seen as a unifying thread connecting diverse regions and cultures.

50. Symbolic Name: "Grand Trunk Road" reflects its grandeur and importance, making it a timeless icon of connectivity in India.