The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has approved 54 key proposals during its 184th board meeting, paving the way for both housing and commercial developments across the city.
Among the most notable decisions is the approval of a large-scale residential project spanning over 3,300 acres in Bakshi Ka Talab, aimed at addressing the growing demand for affordable housing and fostering sustainable urban growth.The newly approved residential scheme along Raitha Road in Bakshi Ka Talab, which will cover land acquired from 14 villages including Bhauli, Baurumau, and Sairpur, is set to transform the region into a major residential hub. With a budget of ₹4,269.12 crore allocated for the upcoming financial year, a significant portion of the funds will be channelled into this expansive project. This allocation represents an increase of ₹395.82 crore from the previous year, underscoring the priority given to large-scale urban development and the promotion of planned housing projects to meet the city’s surging population demands. The residential development will unfold in phases to ensure a seamless transition for landowners and integrate local communities into the planned urban framework. The move is expected to not only enhance housing availability but also boost the region’s infrastructure and civic amenities, providing residents with modern facilities and well-connected transportation networks.
To further support urban expansion, the LDA has introduced a series of policy updates aimed at improving construction and land use regulations. One such amendment includes allowing the construction of toilets in basements and extending basement usage for commercial and office purposes, effectively increasing the use of available space. These regulatory changes align with the city’s evolving needs and modern urban infrastructure. Additionally, the LDA board approved an increase in development charges from ₹2,360 to ₹2,462 per square metre, reflecting the rising costs of infrastructure development, including roads and basic civic amenities. This move is seen as a necessary step to accommodate the growing financial requirements of the city’s expansion. In an effort to encourage property sales, the LDA has extended its “first come, first serve” discount policy for flat allotments until April 7, 2025, coinciding with major festivals like Navratri and Eid. This extension, aimed at boosting demand and attracting buyers, will also see the involvement of RERA-registered agents, who will receive a commission of 2-3% for sales. The board also approved the e-auction of vacant land near the 1090 intersection in Jiyamau, which will be earmarked for both commercial and residential development. This move is expected to generate substantial revenue for the city, further supporting its urbanisation agenda.
In line with its commitment to enhancing urban living, the LDA also discussed the conversion of rental properties into freehold ownership. This policy, which aims to offer tenants full ownership rights, is seen as a step towards fostering a more equitable society by enabling greater security and ownership among residents. In an effort to address issues of slum dwellers, the LDA also approved a resettlement plan for residents of Aliganj’s Khasra numbers 11 and 12 to the PMAY Basant Kunj scheme, further demonstrating the authority’s commitment to promoting inclusive urban development. As part of its larger efforts to facilitate smoother property transactions and resolve disputes more efficiently, the LDA announced that it will pursue mutual settlements for cases pending before the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) and RERA Appellate Tribunal. This move is expected to expedite the resolution process, helping property developers and buyers resolve long-standing issues in a more streamlined manner.
The LDA’s comprehensive set of approvals not only reflects the city’s ambition to expand its urban footprint but also highlights its focus on sustainable development, with an emphasis on affordable housing, infrastructure improvement, and equitable urban planning. The upcoming residential projects in Bakshi Ka Talab, in particular, are poised to play a key role in shaping the future of Lucknow, making it a more accessible, modern, and sustainable city for its residents.
