CM Yogi Adityanath is leading a plan to develop Uttar Pradesh’s capital Lucknow and its five neighboring districts on the lines of Delhi-NCR and Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The government has named this ambitious project ‘State Capital Region (SCR)’. The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has received a detailed 380-page report and will now forward it to the state government for approval.
Which districts will form the SCR?
The SCR project will include Lucknow along with Hardoi, Raebareli, Unnao, Sitapur, and Barabanki. Together, these districts cover an area of around 27,826 square kilometers. The aim of the plan is to strengthen Lucknow’s infrastructure, ensure balanced growth in surrounding areas, and ease the growing population pressure on the capital city.
Land prices likely to rise in neighboring districts
Just as land prices soared in towns included in Delhi-NCR, it is expected that the implementation of the SCR project will push up land prices in Unnao, Raebareli, Barabanki, Hardoi, and Sitapur. However, the extent of this increase will only be known in the coming time.
Yogi Government sets up Development Authority
To oversee the SCR project, the government has established the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region Development Authority (UP SCRDA), headquartered in Lucknow. CM Yogi Adityanath will serve as its chairman, while the Chief Secretary will be the vice-chairman. The authority will have 21 members, including officials from Public Works, Urban Development, UP Metro Rail Corporation, Chief Development Officers of the concerned districts, and other government-appointed members.
Key projects under SCR
The mega plan aims to transform Lucknow and adjoining districts into a modern and smart region. Under this project:
- Metro network will be expanded to nearby districts.
- Highways and ring roads will be widened.
- Affordable housing projects and slum redevelopment will take place.
- Industrial zones and SEZs will be developed.
- Smart transport such as electric buses and BRTS will be introduced.
- Focus will be laid on Gomti river conservation and water management.
- Digital infrastructure, solar energy, skill development, and startup hubs will be promoted.
Citizens’ participation to be ensured
The project will also give importance to public participation. LDA and SCRDA plan to seek citizens’ suggestions through an online portal and feedback boxes. The government believes that only with public involvement can the plan succeed in transforming Lucknow into a global-level smart and green city.
