Lucknow Senior Homes Delayed Over Safety Risk

Lucknow’s flagship senior citizen housing initiative has been put on hold after the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) halted construction at its proposed Virajkhand site due to a major safety concern. The land was found to lie directly beneath high-tension power transmission lines, forcing the authority to abandon the location and begin scouting safer alternatives — a move expected to delay the launch but improve long-term resilience and liveability.

The “Second Innings Homes” project, approved two years ago, was conceived as a purpose-built residential community for citizens aged 60 and above. At a recent board meeting, LDA members confirmed that continuing construction at Virajkhand would violate building safety regulations, which prohibit multi-storey development under high-voltage power lines. The land, which also sits near a water body, will now be sold on the open market. Despite the setback, officials insist the project remains a priority. “The scheme has not been scrapped. We are only shifting it due to technical limitations,” a senior planning official said. Basant Kunj and the CG City housing zone are among the locations being evaluated for the shift.

The original blueprint outlined a seven-storey tower comprising 56 studio-style units of around 400 sq ft each, designed for mobility, wellness and comfort. Spacious balconies, barrier-free bathrooms, a physiotherapy centre, yoga space, community kitchen, clubhouse and an ambulance station were among the proposed facilities. Allotment was to be offered exclusively on lease to seniors, a structure aimed at retaining affordability and preventing speculative resale. Urban development experts say the pause underscores the growing need for rigorous due-diligence in social housing projects. According to consultancy estimates, cities like Lucknow will require significantly more age-friendly residential options as India’s elderly population expands. “Senior housing cannot simply follow mainstream real estate templates. It must prioritise accessibility, medical preparedness and climate-safe locations,” said an architect specialising in inclusive infrastructure. The cancellation of the Virajkhand site also reignites concerns about how land is zoned and allocated in fast-growing cities. Placement of high-tension lines near residential pockets is common across Indian metros, and experts argue that poorly coordinated infrastructure poses long-term risks to both safety and housing supply.

Advocates for elder welfare point out that the “Second Innings Homes” project could set a much-needed precedent for dignified and community-based ageing. They emphasise that sustainable cities must plan for every life stage — not only youth, workers or families. “An inclusive urban ecosystem is one where senior citizens can live independently without isolation and without fear,” said a community policy researcher. The relocation process may delay the project’s launch, but officials believe the shift will ensure compliance and security. If executed thoughtfully, the project can contribute not only to improved elder living standards but also to Lucknow’s transition toward socially equitable and safe urban development.

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Lucknow Senior Homes Delayed Over Safety Risk