Lucknows Harinagar-Gaughat Road to Be Upgraded by October
Lucknow is poised for a significant upgrade in its urban infrastructure, with the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) embarking on the widening of a critical 1.5-kilometre stretch connecting Harinagar Cattle Colony in Balaganj to Gaughat. This vital artery, currently a narrow single lane, is set to become a two-lane thoroughfare by the end of October, dramatically easing traffic congestion and enhancing access to Phase I of the city’s ambitious Green Corridor. This development signifies a major step towards creating a more sustainable and equitable urban mobility network, particularly for residents of the historically dense Old City areas.
The expansion of this link road is not merely about increasing capacity; it is a strategic move to unlock the full potential of the Green Corridor, which currently runs from IIM Road to Pakka Pul. Over 5,000 vehicles traverse this narrow stretch daily to connect with the corridor, frequently resulting in severe bottlenecks and commute times exceeding 20 minutes for a short distance. Widening this bottleneck will significantly reduce idling time for vehicles, leading to lower fuel consumption and decreased vehicular emissions, aligning with the city’s commitment to cleaner air and a reduced carbon footprint.
The project, managed by the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) of the Green Corridor, involves extensive earth-levelling and land identification for the proposed embankment. While monsoon season presents temporary challenges, efforts are being expedited to ensure timely completion. This attention to integrated planning is crucial for building sustainable urban growth, where infrastructure projects are executed with a holistic view of their environmental and social impacts, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum long-term benefit for the populace.
Simultaneously, rapid progress is being made on the second phase of the Green Corridor, extending from IIM Road to Samata Mulak crossing, with an anticipated completion by December. Once operational, this phase promises to slash commute times from nearly an hour to a mere 20-25 minutes, significantly improving daily life for thousands of commuters. This reduction in travel time not only boosts economic productivity but also enhances the quality of life, allowing residents more time for leisure, family, and personal pursuits, contributing to a more balanced urban lifestyle.
Developed along the right bank of the Gomti River, the Green Corridor is a cornerstone of Lucknow’s broader urban mobility and decongestion strategy. It represents a shift towards multi-modal, eco-friendly transport corridors that integrate green spaces and recreational areas alongside efficient roadways. This integrated planning approach aims to create gender-neutral and accessible public infrastructure, providing safe pathways for pedestrians and cyclists alongside vehicular traffic, ensuring that the benefits of improved connectivity are enjoyed by all citizens, regardless of their mode of transport.
The ongoing infrastructure development in Lucknow reflects a comprehensive vision for the city’s future. By tackling critical choke points and extending key arteries, the authorities are not just addressing immediate traffic problems but are laying the groundwork for resilient and sustainable urban growth. The focus on integrated planning and timely delivery, coupled with a commitment to environmental considerations, positions Lucknow as a leading example of how modern urban development can harmonise economic progress with ecological responsibility, creating a more liveable and equitable environment for generations to come.
