Lucknow, August 30: In a significant development for Uttar Pradesh’s capital, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation for 12 development projects worth ₹101 crores aimed at transforming Lucknow Cantonment into a ‘Model Cantonment’ on Sunday.
Addressing a public gathering, Chief Minister Adityanath emphasized that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Singh, Uttar Pradesh has embarked on a new journey of security, good governance, and development. He stated that Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the ‘growth engine’ of the country. He reiterated that the vision of a developed and empowered India, as envisioned by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, is being realized under Modi’s leadership. Adityanath noted that in recent years, Uttar Pradesh has achieved new heights in every sector of development, with Lucknow serving as a vibrant example.
The Chief Minister highlighted the transformation of Lucknow, recalling that about 20 years ago, a sign at the railway station read, “Smile, you are in Lucknow.” However, back then, the city’s traffic jams, narrow lanes, and filth made it difficult for people to smile. Today, Lucknow has preserved its historical heritage while establishing itself as a modern and smart city. The city now features both old streets and modern roads, including the CM Grid. Alongside historical figures like Uda Devi Pasi and Maharaja Bijli Pasi, Lucknow is also becoming a hub for the production of modern missiles like BrahMos in the fields of defense and self-reliance.
Adityanath mentioned that Lucknow is globally recognized for its chikankari and handicrafts. The city’s culinary and cultural heritage has also received a new identity. This blend of heritage and modern development is giving Lucknow a distinct status among the country’s major cities. He noted that under Rajnath Singh’s guidance, modern facilities are being expanded in the Lucknow Cantonment. An AI-based solid waste management system is being developed for the Cantonment Board, along with initiatives like the Chief Minister’s Abhyudaya coaching program in schools. These efforts aim to provide better facilities for military personnel, veterans, and local citizens living in the Cantonment area.
The Chief Minister assured that continuous efforts are being made to clean the Gomti River in Lucknow. He expressed confidence that by the end of this year, the river would be completely clean, acknowledging the support from the Central Command in this endeavor. Adityanath pointed out that before 2017, Uttar Pradesh faced an identity crisis, plagued by scarcity, chaos, and unrest. However, he stated that the situation has dramatically changed, with Uttar Pradesh now emerging as the growth engine of the national economy.
He added that under the Prime Minister’s inspiration and Rajnath Singh’s leadership, defense manufacturing corridors are being developed in the state. Uttar Pradesh is also making rapid strides in expressways, railways, metro, and air connectivity. Following the approval of the second phase of the Lucknow Metro by the central government, work will soon progress. Currently, the state boasts the largest air connectivity network in the country, with 17 domestic and five international airports operational. Through military schools, the youth of the state are being prepared to meet the country’s security needs.
The Chief Minister emphasized that soldiers are always on alert for the security of the nation’s borders. Therefore, it is the government’s responsibility to provide better facilities for soldiers, veterans, and their families. He assured that there would be no shortage of funds for development projects in Cantonment Boards. The government will continue to work towards developing Lucknow Cantonment as an ideal Cantonment Board, focusing on providing better roads, sanitation, education, waste management, and other civic amenities for residents and military families.
Adityanath concluded by stating that Lucknow is moving forward, embracing both its historical identity and modern development. From BrahMos to smart roads, and heritage to modern infrastructure, the capital is presenting a new image of a transforming Uttar Pradesh.
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