Lucknow’s urban landscape is undergoing a transformative phase with the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) intensifying efforts in the Akbarnagar area. Aimed at enhancing the aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability of the Kukrail river precinct, the recent demolition of 54 structures marks a pivotal step in the city’s beautification agenda.
Commencing promptly at 10 am, the demolition operation deployed a fleet of 14 excavators, 12 bulldozers, and 15 water tankers equipped with sprinklers. Over 45 trucks from the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) and LDA facilitated the relocation of household belongings for displaced families, underscoring a concerted effort to mitigate the impact of urban renewal initiatives.
The ongoing project, aligned with the broader objective of rejuvenating the Kukrail river, has garnered significant attention due to its scale and comprehensive approach. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s proactive stance, supported by legal interventions up to the Supreme Court, underscores the government’s commitment to urban revitalization amidst pre-election fervor.
Integral to this initiative is the resettlement strategy under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), where 104 households were allocated new homes on Thursday alone. To date, more than 1,800 affected families have been accommodated through various housing schemes, including the Basant Kunj Yojana on Hardoi Road.
Moreover, plans are underway to leverage the rejuvenated Kukrail forest area as a hub for eco-tourism, with proposals to relocate the Lucknow zoo and establish India’s first night safari. Spanning 855.07 acres, the night safari promises an immersive experience featuring diverse habitats and wildlife, including the Asiatic lion, Bengal tiger, and leopard. It is projected to accommodate up to 8,000 visitors per night, bolstering tourism prospects in the region.
Environmental considerations remain paramount in these developments, as highlighted by Professor Venkatesh Dutta of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University. Stressing the ecological significance of the Kukrail river as a tributary of the Gomti, he advocates for sustainable practices amidst urbanization challenges.
The rejuvenation efforts not only aim to restore the historical purity of the Kukrail river, as documented in the 1904 Lucknow Gazetteer, but also address contemporary urbanization impacts such as dams and drainage systems.
As Lucknow progresses towards a greener and more vibrant future, stakeholders anticipate enhanced economic opportunities and sustainable growth trajectories facilitated by strategic urban planning and environmental stewardship.
