UP Cabinet Issues Nod For Varanasi-Prayagraj Development Authority, On Lines Of NCR

In a decision aimed at strengthening infrastructure across key regions in Uttar Pradesh, the state cabinet has approved the formation of a new development authority that will combine Prayagraj and Varanasi, following the model of the National Capital Region.

This new authority will encompass seven districts — Prayagraj, Varanasi, Chandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Mirzapur, and Bhadohi.

The creation of this authority is seen as a strategic move by the Uttar Pradesh government to streamline the development of these regions and boost their infrastructure, fostering economic growth and improving living conditions for millions of residents.

This initiative is expected to pave the way for coordinated regional planning, and facilitating better management of resources and services.

The inclusion of seven districts in the new development zone takes cue from the integrated growth model for the area, similar to the approach adopted for Delhi and its surrounding regions under the NCR.

This move comes on the heels of the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region formation. The SCR, covering Lucknow and its surrounding districts, was established to manage population growth and urban pressure in the state capital. The area includes Lucknow, Hardoi, Sitapur, Unnao, Rae Bareli, and Barabanki, spanning 27,826 square kilometers.

The rationale behind both initiatives—SCR and the newly approved Varanasi-Prayagraj development authority—is to manage population pressures and address urban challenges in key areas of the state.

Notably, the NCR was also established in 1985 under the National Capital Region Planning Board Act with the goal of managing the population influx into Delhi, and ensuring coordinated development in surrounding areas. It encompasses districts from neighbouring states such as Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.