Uttar Pradesh is gearing up for a major development leap with the launch of the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region (UPSCR), a mega blueprint designed to extend Lucknow’s growth story to five adjoining districts.
Spanning nearly 26,000 sq. km, the project seeks to transform the region into a hub of modern infrastructure, affordable housing, healthcare, education, tourism, and employment.
Prathamesh Kumar, Vice-Chairman of the Lucknow Development Authority, announced on Friday that a GIS-based regional master plan will be prepared by a consortium of AECOM India Pvt. Ltd. and Aegis India Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd. The consortium has one year to draft the plan, after which it will identify projects, prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), and oversee execution for the next five years.
“Unlike earlier models where development remained confined to the state capital, UPSCR will ensure parallel growth across surrounding districts. This will attract investment, generate large-scale employment, and bring urban facilities closer to villages,” Kumar said.
Currently, Lucknow dominates the region’s growth, drawing thousands daily from Sitapur, Unnao, Hardoi, Barabanki, and Raebareli for jobs, healthcare, education, and trade. UPSCR aims to change this by linking all six districts with high-speed rail and road connectivity, spurring industrial and commercial expansion.
Tourism is another key focus. A recent survey shows the proposed region already attracts nearly 18 million tourists annually: Lucknow accounts for 46%, followed by Barabanki (31%), Unnao (14%), Sitapur (7%), and Hardoi and Raebareli (1% each). Officials believe targeted investments will multiply tourist inflows, further boosting the local economy.
In essence, UPSCR is more than just an infrastructure project, it is a vision to reimagine central Uttar Pradesh as a shared growth corridor where villages and cities advance together.