Lucknow civic body plans Rs 800 crore upgrade
The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is set to introduce an ambitious allocation of Rs 800 crore in its upcoming financial budget, reinforcing its commitment to urban sustainability through enhanced sanitation and road infrastructure. With this move, the city’s total budget will expand to Rs 4,800 crore for the financial year 2025-26, marking a substantial increase from last year’s Rs 4,000 crore. The proposed budget, expected to be tabled for approval at the LMC’s executive meeting, underscores a strategic focus on upgrading civic amenities in response to growing urban challenges.
A significant portion of the additional funds, approximately Rs 600 crore, will be channelled into strengthening the city’s sanitation system. The decision comes in the wake of rising expenses associated with outsourcing waste management to private firms, necessitating a higher budgetary allocation. Previously, the municipal body allocated Rs 300 crore annually towards cleanliness. The increased investment will facilitate the acquisition of modern sanitation vehicles, installation of waste compactors to minimise spillage, and a shift from open garbage transportation to enclosed systems. Additionally, the expansion of door-to-door waste collection services will ensure improved waste disposal mechanisms, reinforcing the city’s efforts towards achieving a cleaner and healthier urban environment. In parallel, Rs 200 crore has been earmarked under the Chief Minister Grid Road Yojana (CM Grid Road Scheme) to accelerate road development projects. With an emphasis on improving connectivity and easing urban congestion, the scheme has already facilitated the construction of seven roads at an investment of Rs 186 crore, while an additional Rs 125 crore was sanctioned in the second phase for four more roads. The new budget aims to propel these initiatives forward, ensuring the city’s road network aligns with the demands of its growing population. Investments in better road infrastructure are expected to enhance transportation efficiency, reduce travel time, and foster economic activity within the city.
The budget proposal exemplifies the LMC’s commitment to upgrading civic infrastructure in line with sustainable urban development goals. By prioritising sanitation and road enhancement, the municipal corporation is addressing critical aspects of public well-being and urban mobility. The upcoming executive meeting will play a decisive role in determining the final structure of these allocations, as all proposals will be presented for approval before implementation in the next fiscal year. The success of this initiative will depend on meticulous execution and transparent governance, ensuring that these substantial investments translate into tangible improvements in the quality of life for Lucknow’s residents