Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has intensified preparations for the development of the State Capital Region (SCR), a major urban expansion project covering Lucknow and five adjoining districts.
A high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal was held at Lok Bhawan, where 29 major infrastructure and development projects under the SCR were discussed.
Six Districts to Be Developed Under SCR Framework
According to the Lucknow Development Authority (Lucknow Development Authority), the State Capital Region will include:
- Lucknow
- Sitapur
- Unnao
- Hardoi
- Barabanki
- Raebareli
The combined development area spans approximately 26,000 square kilometres, with planning based on a GIS-based regional master plan to ensure structured urban growth.
29 Key Infrastructure Projects Identified
The SCR framework includes 29 major projects focusing on transportation, mobility, infrastructure, economy, and tourism.
Key proposed developments include:
- State Capital Ring Road (Regional Road Network)
- Elevated Peripheral Road
- Road upgradation projects
- Transport Nagar development
- Orbital rail corridor
- Metro network expansion
Officials said these projects aim to create a modern and integrated urban infrastructure system across the region.
Metro Network Expansion for Better Connectivity
A major focus of the SCR plan is the expansion of the metro network in Lucknow.
The government has approved the preparation of detailed project reports (DPR) for 10 new metro corridors covering nearly 150 km. These will connect key locations such as:
- Airport
- IIM Lucknow
- Charbagh
- Indira Nagar
- Jankipuram
- Mohanlalganj
- Banthra
- Barabanki Road
The expansion is expected to significantly improve public transport and reduce traffic congestion in the capital.
Industrial Growth Through Logistics and Economic Corridors
To boost economic activity, the SCR plan includes the development of:
- Industrial parks
- Logistics hubs
- Food parks
- Lucknow–Kanpur Expressway corridor-based development
Officials said these initiatives will attract large-scale investment, promote industrial growth, and generate thousands of employment opportunities in the region.
Focus on Connectivity and Reduced Migration
The proposed State Capital Ring Road, also known as the regional road network, will improve connectivity between all six districts.
Authorities said better transport links will provide access to jobs, education, and business opportunities within the region itself, reducing migration to larger cities.
Metro Expansion Planned Till 2047
The Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation) has been directed to prepare detailed reports for the new metro corridors.
Officials said the projects will be implemented in phases up to 2047, ensuring long-term urban development and improved public transport infrastructure.
Vision for a Modern Urban Growth Model
Chief Secretary S.P. Goyal directed all departments to expedite consultations and prepare detailed proposals for implementation.
Officials said the SCR project aims to transform the region into a national-level model for economic growth, infrastructure development, and urban planning, ensuring balanced development across urban and rural areas.
