Uttar Pradesh to launch 60-day drive to improve face of its cities

LUCKNOW: In order to introduce changes in the way urban services are provided in Uttar Pradesh, the urban development department of the state is set to start a 60-day drive from April 15. Under the drive, various delivery areas will be covered to improve the experience of residents.

A 12-point to-do list has been sent to all the municipal commissioners and councils by Rajneesh Dube, Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh. The first task of the officials is to improve the condition of roundabouts and prominent crossings. The order states that civic bodies can adopt public-private-partnership model to renovate crossings in cities. Zebra crossings and stop lines will be marked on busy roads and crossings. Additionally, officials will develop green belts and plant trees along roads and crossings to minimise air pollution in cities.

The officials have been asked to consider putting up vertical gardens near prominent crossings as part of the drive. Wall murals and paintings that promote social messages, similar to the ones found in Varanasi and Prayagraj, will also come up at strategic locations in all the cities.

AK Sharma, Minister of Urban Development, Government of Uttar Pradesh had already directed officials to ensure proper sweeping of roads in the morning. In addition, Dube has directed officials to ensure another round of road sweeping in the second half of the day in busy markets, railway stations, and tourist spots.

The drive will include cleaning up of garbage dumps in the city in a phased manner and bioremediation of drains and nullahs in view of monsoon season approaching. Moreover, heads of urban local bodies have been directed to prepare an action plan of disposal of legacy waste in their cities. Heads of departments have also been asked to provide a weekly report to the Lucknow headquarters.