The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a major initiative to make urban bodies modern and self-reliant. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed all district headquarters municipalities to immediately implement the “Smart-Developed Municipality Scheme” for strengthening urban infrastructure.
Under this ambitious scheme, municipal bodies will receive grants ranging from Rs 4 crore to Rs 10 crore. The allocation depends on population size and efficiency.
Modern Urban Transport System with e-Buses
To transform urban transport, 200 electric buses will run in big cities like Lucknow and Kanpur on a ‘net cost contract’ model. For other cities, 650 e-buses will be purchased directly. The Chief Minister has stressed the urgent need to set up charging stations and EV infrastructure for smooth operations.
Modern Facilities in Municipalities
This scheme will provide a range of advanced services in urban bodies. These include Gaurav Path (prestigious roads), pink toilets, urban service centres, smart classrooms for Anganwadi, theme-based parks, and digital amenities. The government will preserve historic sites, revive water bodies, and develop structures under the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) scheme to boost the local economy.
Monitoring via the Hub-and-Spoke Model
Yogi has suggested implementing the hub-and-spoke model for this scheme. The government will link the integrated command and control centres in Lucknow and Gorakhpur with nearby municipalities. This will enhance monitoring and administrative efficiency.
The Chief Minister emphasised the need to resolve irregularities in tax collection and ensure financial discipline in municipal corporations. The government will increase the financial approval limits of urban bodies for the first time in 20 years.
International Shooting Range to be Built in Lucknow
The Chief Minister announced that the government will establish the Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad International Shooting Range and a multipurpose sports complex in Lucknow under the PPP model. It will encourage state athletes and offer new employment opportunities for youth.
