• By Imran Zafar
  • Wed, 09 Apr 2025 11:55 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) completed the master plan for the New Agra Urban Centre, which is set to be developed across 12,200 hectares in 58 villages of the Agra district. Designed to accommodate a population of 14.6 lakh, the new city aims to generate employment for 8.5 lakh people by promoting tourism, industry and commercial development.

In light of Agra's environmental sensitivity being part of the Taj Trapezium Zone, the New Agra plan prioritises green and pollution-free development. Only white and green category industries will be allowed. The master plan will be presented for approval in YEIDA’s upcoming board meeting in April and the project will commence post-approval, reported Jagran.com.

Following the phases of development in Gautam Buddha Nagar, Bulandshahr, Aligarh and Mathura, the New Agra city will draw inspiration from Chandigarh. Roads and green belts will be integrated, along with dedicated pedestrian pathways. The YEIDA regional office in Mathura will oversee the project’s execution.

ALSO READ: Agra Metro Rail Project: Agra Cantt And Raja Ki Mandi Railway Stations To Be Linked To Metro Soon | Details

Residential Development Over 2501 Hectares

Following extensive surveys and public consultations, the plan designates 2,501 hectares, 27.7 per cent of the total area, for residential use. These zones will include ample green spaces and walking lanes to ensure low pollution and high livability.

Industries Focused On IT, Agriculture

To maintain environmental standards, only non-polluting industries—such as IT, ITES, manufacturing and agriculture-based units will be allowed. Industrial use is allocated 1,813 hectares or 20.11 per cent of the total area.

Mixed Use And Business Sectors

Mixed-use development zones spread over 447 hectares will combine residential, commercial, and entertainment facilities. A separate business zone spanning 340 hectares will include retail hubs, office spaces, and commercial centres.

Tourism And Recreation To Drive Growth

Given Agra’s historic importance, 640 hectares are reserved for tourism and entertainment. Attractions such as theme parks, hotels, resorts, museums, digital entertainment zones, and cultural centres will be developed near the Yamuna River.

ALSO READ: Noida Airport To Ganga Expressway: 74-Km-Long Link Road To Connect Yamuna Expressway And International Film City

Green Zones And Buffer Areas

The master plan earmarks 823 hectares as a buffer zone along the Yamuna and 485 hectares as green spaces, acting as the city’s ecological lungs. Forest and agricultural lands will be preserved over 434 hectares.

Institutional And Infrastructure Facilities

A total of 330 hectares is reserved for educational and healthcare infrastructure. Additionally, 1,139 hectares will be dedicated to roads, transport corridors, and logistics, including a 180-hectare logistics hub near the industrial area.

Land Use Breakdown (in per cent of total area)

- Residential: 27.7 per cent

- Industrial: 20.11 per cent

- Roads & Infrastructure: 12.6 per cent

- River Buffer Zone: 8.2 per cent

- Green Area: 5.4 per cent

- Mixed Land Use: 5 per cent

- Recreational Tourism: 3.6 per cent

- Commercial: 3.8 per cent

- Agriculture and Forest: 3 per cent

- Institutional: 2.7 per cent

- Tourism: 2 per cent

- Logistics: 2 per cent

- Commercial Tourism: 1.6 per cent

- Service Sector: 1 per cent

(With Jagran Inputs)