Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, along with several surrounding districts, has been officially designated as the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region. This landmark announcement was made by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, under the powers vested in subsection (1) of Section 3 of the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region and Other Regions Development Authority Ordinance, 2024 (UP Ordinance 4 of 2024). The notification was issued by Dr. Nitin Ramesh Gokarn, the additional chief secretary.

Formation and Area Coverage

The newly formed Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region (UPSCR) encompasses the capital city of Lucknow, which spans 2,528 square kilometres, along with the surrounding districts:

1. Hardoi (5,985 sq km)
2. Sitapur (5,743 sq km)
3. Unnao (4,558 sq km)
4. Rae Bareli (4,609 sq km), and
5. Barabanki (4,402 sq km)

Notably, the total area covered by the UPSCR will be 27,826 square kilometres.

Development Authority

In conjunction with this declaration, the Governor has also established the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region Development Authority. This body will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of development projects and ensuring the effective management of resources within the newly defined region. The aim is to facilitate planned and sustainable growth in these areas, mirroring the development model of the National Capital Region (NCR) surrounding Delhi.

On March 6, 2024, months after the Uttar Pradesh government decided to develop the State Capital Region surrounding Lucknow, the state Cabinet approved the draft for the development authority ordinance. This decision was part of a broader initiative to decentralize growth and promote balanced regional development across the state.

Government's Vision

“On the lines of the National Capital Region (NCR), the State Capital Region aims to ensure planned development of the area surrounding Lucknow. Neighbouring districts like Hardoi, Sitapur, Unnao, etc. will be included in it and a plan will be chalked out for their development,” said state Finance Minister Suresh Khanna following the Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Historical Context

The concept of regional development authorities is not new in India. The National Capital Region (NCR) around Delhi was one of the first such initiatives, established to manage the rapid urbanization and growth of Delhi and its neighboring areas. The success of the NCR model in promoting coordinated regional development has inspired similar initiatives in other states.

Uttar Pradesh, with its vast and diverse geography, has long grappled with the challenges of uneven development. By designating a State Capital Region, the government aims to address these challenges by fostering balanced growth and ensuring that the benefits of development are distributed more equitably.

Economic and Social Impact

The creation of the UPSCR is expected to have significant economic and social impacts. The new development authority will focus on infrastructure development, improving connectivity, and enhancing public services in the region. This, in turn, is likely to attract investments, create job opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents.

Experts believe that the designation of the UPSCR will also help in better urban planning and management, reducing the pressure on Lucknow while promoting the growth of surrounding districts. The coordinated approach to development is expected to lead to more efficient use of resources and better implementation of government schemes.

Future Prospects

The Uttar Pradesh government’s move to establish the State Capital Region is seen as a strategic step towards realising its vision of a developed and prosperous state. The focus will now be on implementing the plans and ensuring that the development projects are carried out efficiently.

The establishment of the UPSCR and its development authority is a significant milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s journey towards balanced regional development. With careful planning and effective implementation, the UPSCR could become a model for other states to emulate.

Awadh360 plus

The official designation of Lucknow and its surrounding areas as the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region marks a new chapter in the state’s development journey. By fostering planned and sustainable growth, the UPSCR aims to bring prosperity and improved living standards to its residents. The establishment of the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region Development Authority will be crucial in achieving these goals, ensuring that the region develops in a coordinated and efficient manner.