KKN Gurugram Desk | The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government is embarking on an ambitious project to transform seven major cities in the state through the introduction of smart infrastructure and services. This initiative, which spans two years, aims to significantly improve urban living standards by providing smart parking, solar street lights, and even health ATMs.

The cities targeted for this project include Ayodhya, Mathura-Vrindavan, Gorakhpur, Shahjahanpur, Meerut, Ghaziabad, and Firozabad. As part of the plan, the state government intends to invest ₹1,750 crore in the development of smart roads, smart parking systems, ITMS (Intelligent Traffic Management Systems), and more. These upgrades are part of the Smart City Project, a major urban development initiative aimed at enhancing city infrastructure across India.

Smart City Infrastructure to Include Multiple Features

The planned upgrades in these seven cities will introduce state-of-the-art urban services, designed to benefit both residents and visitors. Some of the notable features include:

1. Smart Parking Systems

To tackle the issue of parking congestion, especially in crowded cities like Mathura and Ayodhya, the government will implement smart parking facilities. This includes:

• Digital parking management systems

• Real-time tracking of available spaces

• Parking slots that can be booked via a mobile app

2. Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS)

The introduction of ITMS will help streamline traffic flow, reduce congestion, and improve road safety. These systems will include:

• Real-time traffic data collection and analysis

• Automated traffic lights that adjust based on traffic conditions

• CCTV surveillance for better monitoring and enforcement

3. Solar-Powered Street Lights

With a focus on sustainability, the government will install solar street lights across these cities. This move is in line with the state’s commitment to green energy and aims to reduce electricity consumption.

• Environmentally friendly lighting solutions

• Reduced dependency on conventional electricity grids

• Cost savings for municipal bodies

4. Senior Care Centers

As part of its focus on the welfare of senior citizens, the government plans to set up Senior Care Centers in these cities, which will provide:

• Healthcare services for the elderly

• Social support activities and community centers

• Specialized medical and psychological care

5. Health ATMs

In a pioneering initiative, the government plans to introduce Health ATMs that will allow residents to check their vital health parameters like:

• Blood pressure

• Blood sugar

• ECG readings

These self-service health kiosks aim to make health monitoring more accessible in underserved areas.

6. Parks and Open Gyms

To promote public health and wellness, the government will construct parks and open gyms. These will provide free fitness facilities for all residents, encouraging physical activity and offering:

• Free gym equipment in public spaces

• Well-maintained green parks for relaxation

• Walking tracks and community spaces

Key Cities in Uttar Pradesh to Benefit from the Plan

1. Ayodhya

The city of Ayodhya, home to the iconic Ram Janmabhoomi temple, will see significant infrastructure upgrades under this plan. With increasing foot traffic due to the temple’s global importance, smart parking and improved public transport will be critical for managing crowds and ensuring smoother access to the temple and other religious sites.

2. Mathura-Vrindavan

As one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in India, Mathura-Vrindavan will benefit from smart road infrastructure and public health facilities that will accommodate both residents and tourists. The solar street lights will be a boon for the night-time economy of these areas.

3. Gorakhpur

The city of Gorakhpur, known for its historical significance and educational institutions, will get an uplift with sustainable energy solutions and healthcare access points. These developments will contribute to a more modern and cleaner city.

4. Shahjahanpur

Shahjahanpur, a rapidly developing city in western Uttar Pradesh, will be part of the state’s smart infrastructure push. The implementation of smart parking and intelligent traffic management systems will alleviate road congestion and promote better traffic flow.

5. Meerut

Meerut, known for its sports and industrial significance, will see a major overhaul in its urban planning. The introduction of smart street lighting and the establishment of open gyms will encourage physical activity and provide safer, cleaner streets.

6. Ghaziabad

Being a satellite city of Delhi, Ghaziabad is already home to significant urbanization. The development of health ATMs and the expansion of smart roads will enhance the quality of life for its growing population.

7. Firozabad

The city of Firozabad, which is known for its glass industry, will benefit from the solar-powered street lights and senior care centers, particularly given its population’s need for elderly care and community healthcare initiatives.

Budget and Expected Costs

The total budget for the planned developments in these cities amounts to ₹1,750 crore. Each of the cities will receive a portion of this amount to implement the specific infrastructure improvements. The distribution will likely follow a zonal approach, with each city preparing detailed proposals for government approval.

Amount allocated per city (estimated):

• Ayodhya: ₹250 crore

• Mathura-Vrindavan: ₹250 crore

• Gorakhpur: ₹250 crore

• Shahjahanpur: ₹250 crore

• Meerut: ₹250 crore

• Ghaziabad: ₹250 crore

• Firozabad: ₹250 crore

Challenges and Delays

Despite the ambitious plans, the project has faced delays. Initially, the cities were given five years to implement these changes. However, due to bureaucratic inefficiencies and lack of timely proposals, the government has now allotted an additional two years for the completion of the infrastructure work.

The responsibility now lies with local municipal corporations to ensure that the improvements are completed on schedule. They are expected to submit detailed proposals for each of the upgrades, after which funds will be released.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Uttar Pradesh’s Urban Development

The government has emphasized that public feedback and suggestions will be integral to the implementation process. Citizens will be encouraged to share their opinions on improving city amenities and any specific needs they feel are crucial for the local community.

Key Next Steps:

• Finalizing detailed proposals for each city

• Consulting urban planners and citizen forums for feedback

• Monitoring progress and ensuring deadlines are met

The Yogi Adityanath government’s vision for smart city development in Uttar Pradesh reflects a long-term commitment to modernization. With a focus on sustainability, health, and smart infrastructure, the government aims to transform the urban landscape of these seven key cities.

This initiative not only promises improved living conditions but also sets a precedent for other states to follow in terms of urban development.

As the project progresses, all eyes will be on Uttar Pradesh to see how these transformative plans unfold over the next two years.