Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, is embarking on a pivotal urban development project that seeks to redefine its road infrastructure. Under the ambitious Chief Minister Grid Yojana, the city is set to construct a pilot model of a smart road near Mahanagar Gol Market within the next three months. This strategic shift involves creating a one-kilometre demonstration stretch to meticulously evaluate and refine the design, drawing inspiration from successful smart road initiatives in Pune and Bengaluru. This proactive measure aims to pre-empt flaws that typically emerge only after full-scale construction, ensuring optimal utilisation of public funds and delivering high-quality, sustainable infrastructure.
Traditionally, post-construction audits often revealed deficiencies when budget allocations were exhausted, making rectifications financially impractical. Lucknow’s new methodology, as outlined by Chief Engineer (Civil) Mahesh Chandra Verma of the Municipal Corporation, directly addresses these past shortcomings. By establishing a tangible reference point, the project intends to standardise quality and functionality across the seven locations identified for smart road construction under the CM Grid Yojana. This methodical approach is critical for building enduring infrastructure that supports the city’s long-term sustainability goals.
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Key features of these proposed smart roads are designed to enhance urban efficiency and liveability, directly contributing to the city’s aspirations for a zero net carbon footprint. They include the undergrounding of utility lines, which not only declutters urban aesthetics but also protects vital services from external damage, reducing maintenance needs. Dedicated pathways will foster pedestrian and cycling culture, promoting healthier, eco-friendly commuting options and reducing reliance on fossil-fuel powered vehicles. Well-planned dividers and parking spaces in commercial zones are set to mitigate traffic disruptions, improving overall urban flow and reducing idling emissions. The roads are specifically designed to seamlessly integrate with market areas, accommodating commercial activity without hindering vehicle movement.
Significant design enhancements have also been incorporated, reflecting a commitment to durability and eco-consciousness. The shift from 15 mm tiles to more robust 60 mm thick replaceable blocks ensures greater longevity and ease of repair, minimising waste and resource consumption over time. A critical focus on maximising parking space on roads of varying widths (18, 24, and 36 meters) acknowledges the practical needs of a growing urban population, while striving to maintain green spaces and efficient transit. Moreover, construction firms will be held accountable for any damage to existing public utilities during digging, a measure promoting responsible development and protecting municipal assets crucial for equitable service delivery.
This forward-thinking strategy by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation is a direct response to the challenges faced by previous infrastructure projects, notably the Smart City initiative, where issues such as encroachment on footpaths and inadequate drainage planning hindered effectiveness. By testing the design in a controlled model environment, officials aim to circumvent past errors and cultivate an infrastructure model that is inclusive, durable, and truly smart. This commitment to rigorous planning and quality assurance is pivotal for Lucknow’s journey towards becoming a resilient, environmentally responsible, and gender-neutral urban centre, enhancing the quality of life for all its citizens.
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