UP to build modern cities to improve ease of living

Lucknow: The state govt has prepared a roadmap under its ‘Viksit UP@2047' vision to develop modern cities, with a focus on improving public transport, ensuring 100% digital services, expanding water supply, creating economic hubs, and strengthening waste management and environmental systems.The plan, presented before Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to improve ease of living, strengthen civic services, and ensure a better quality of life through balanced and sustainable growth. Urban areas are expected to emerge as key drivers of economic development, supported by efficient administrative systems. As part of the roadmap, Lucknow will be developed as a State Capital Region (SCR), while regional economic centres will be set up across the state. These centres will be aligned with local geographical strengths to boost investment, generate employment, and promote balanced regional growth. The govt has proposed a multi-modal transport system, including metro rail, rapid rail, electric buses, and smart traffic management. The aim is to increase the public transport share to 25%, reducing congestion and pollution while making travel more affordable. Under the ‘Liveable Cities Mission', essential services such as healthcare, education, and markets will be available within a 15-minute distance from homes. To improve governance, GIS-based property mapping and taxation systems will be introduced for transparency and accuracy. Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCC) will also be set up for real-time monitoring and coordination. The roadmap targets 100% digital delivery of citizen services across Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). It also includes plans to set up development authorities in all districts, ensure full water supply coverage, and develop theme-based townships. An Uttar Pradesh Urban Observatory will support data-driven planning. Environmental measures include the ‘Sponge City' initiative, focusing on rainwater harvesting, revival of water bodies, and protection of natural drainage systems to improve groundwater levels and reduce flood risks. The govt also plans to set up waste-to-energy plants to achieve zero-landfill cities. Housing schemes for economically weaker and low-income groups will be expanded, along with mixed land use to support inclusive growth.