The Uttar Pradesh government has requested the Centre to ensure speedy execution of the projects being implemented by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) in the state.

The request was made during a high-level meeting held between UP Chief secretary Atul Kumar Gupta and secretary Union Surface Transport Ministry Bramhdutt along with the state and centre officers yesterday.

During the meeting problems related to land acquisition, forest, power and administrative matter being faced in execution of the projects by NHAI were discussed.

The NHAI officials were directed to establish coordination with the state officers and to sort out these problems.

While assuring to extend full cooperation in execution of the projects, the state government requested speedy implementation so that people don't have to face financial burden in form of toll tax.

It also requested for timely devolution of adequate fund for maintenance and upkeep of the national highways.

"The Centre has assured to compensate Rs 232 crore spent by the state on projects under Central Road Fund Scheme," an official said.

The state government also requested to complete a ring road on priority in the wake of forthcoming Mahakumbh in Allahabad in 2013, he said.