Uttar Pradesh is set to debut its first integrated urban green road under the Chief Minister Green Road Infrastructure Development Scheme (CM-GRIDS) in Meerut. This pioneering project will see the transformation of a 2.15-kilometre stretch on Gadh Road, between Gandhi Ashram and Tejgarhi, into a model of sustainable urban infrastructure.
The ambitious project, with an estimated budget of Rs 40 crore, aims to enhance urban mobility while prioritising environmental sustainability. The Urban Road Infrastructure Development Agency (URIDA) has identified a contractor for the development, which will be overseen by Meerut Municipal Corporation. The road upgrade is slated for completion by June 2026. Arvind Kumar Jain, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of URIDA, highlighted the project’s significance, stating, “This initiative will be the first of its kind in Uttar Pradesh, offering a comprehensive experience for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicle owners alike.” Jain also noted that the success of the Meerut project could pave the way for similar developments in twelve other cities, with tenders currently being processed by fourteen municipal corporations, including Lucknow.
The CM-GRIDS initiative targets roads with a width ranging from 10 to 45 metres. In urban settings, roads wider than 45 metres are managed by the Public Works Department (PWD), while narrower roads are funded through various schemes, including the Finance Commission or the CM Nagar Srujan Yojana. The CM-GRIDS will focus on the intermediate road sizes, ensuring a blend of functionality and green infrastructure. The project is poised to set a precedent for urban road development in Uttar Pradesh, emphasising not only infrastructure enhancement but also ecological considerations. By integrating green spaces and sustainable practices, the initiative aims to create a road network that supports a healthier and more vibrant urban environment.
