• Source:JND

The proposed State Capital Region (SCR) of Uttar Pradesh is undergoing changes as the Uttar Pradesh SCR, which was initially planned to sprawl over an area of 34,002 sq km, will now cover a revised area of 28,826 sq km. To facilitate this transformation, a State Capital Region Development Authority (SCRDA) will be constituted, drawing inspiration from the successful model of the Mumbai Metropolitan Regional Development Authority.

The objectives of the SCRDA are multifaceted. Firstly, it will play a pivotal role in planning, supervising, and coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure time-bound development within the region. Secondly, SCRDA aims to position itself as an attractive investment destination by promoting infrastructure development, enhancing transport connectivity and providing better urban services to residents.

The Lucknow Development Authority will act as the pilot agency responsible for shaping the revised UP SCR. Headquartered in Lucknow, the SCR will comprise districts such as Hardoi, Sitapur, Barabanki, Unnao and Rae Bareli.In the changes made, Kanpur and Kanpur Dehat have been excluded from the SCR, resulting in a reduction in the overall area.

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Infrastructure enhancements are at the forefront of this endeavour. Existing national highways will be widened and additional state highways and roads will be developed to accommodate increased traffic flow. The construction of flyovers, railway overbridges and elevated roads is also on the agenda to facilitate seamless movement for commuters within the region.

The transformation process will take place in phases rather than an immediate overhaul. Gradually covering neighbouring districts, SCRDA aims to significantly improve connectivity to the national capital. The population within these six districts, which is approximately 2.3 crore according to the National Census 2011, will benefit from these strategic developments.

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Despite UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directive to commence work on the SCR in September 2022, progress has been slower than anticipated. Officials are now redefining the scope of work and preparing fresh bid documents so that the proposed plan can be started soon.