Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviews Meerut’s Integrated Development Plan and directs accelerated progress

Lucknow : In a bid to develop Meerut as a smart, clean, and sustainable city, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted a comprehensive review of the ‘Integrated Development Plan’ on Monday. During the meeting, the Chief Minister was informed that the plan includes a total of 93 proposed projects with an estimated cost of around ₹15,000 crore. Work has already commenced on six of these projects.

The Chief Minister directed that all schemes be implemented with transparency, punctuality, and quality, taking into account Meerut’s historical, industrial, and educational significance. He noted that Meerut has played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and industrial growth. Highlighting Meerut’s key role from the freedom struggle to industrial growth, he said the city holds a distinct identity due to its thriving sports industry, educational institutions, and proximity to the National Capital Region. It must be developed as an inspiring hub of sports, education, culture, and commerce.

He urged the local district administration, development authority, and municipal corporation to work in close coordination to alleviate the city’s traffic congestion and overcrowding. The Chief Minister also instructed that only digital hoardings be installed in Smart Meerut, comprehensive CCTV coverage be established across the city, and surveillance systems be strengthened through collaboration with businesses and citizens. He underscored that police should have access to CCTV footage when necessary.

Highlighting environmental priorities, he encouraged the promotion of electric vehicles and increased private sector participation in city bus services. “Meerut must become a model city for environmental sustainability,” he stated. To achieve the vision of a clean city, he called for effective door-to-door garbage collection and vigorous efforts to revive the city’s rivers. He also noted that while STPs (Sewage Treatment Plants) can be a good option for sewage disposal, integrating drainage with natural systems would be more effective.

The Chief Minister was informed that the development plan for Meerut is structured around six major themes: beautification of public spaces and creation of walk-friendly infrastructure; ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow; enhancement of environmental and social amenities; development of industrial and residential infrastructure; and conservation and redevelopment of historical heritage. The projects have been categorized into short-term, medium-term, and long-term phases, with 41 projects targeted for completion within one year.

According to population data, Meerut had an estimated population of around 23 lakh in 2021, which is expected to rise to approximately 33.52 lakh by 2041. Given this significant projected growth and an anticipated increase in per capita income, strengthening infrastructure is imperative.

The meeting also reviewed key schemes and projects such as the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, Rapid Rail, Ganga Expressway, Dedicated Freight Corridor, Western Ring Road, Internal Ring Road, Smart Roads, redevelopment of major intersections, and development of cultural sites. Additionally, beautification initiatives for Sanjay Van, Surajkund, theme parks, ponds, and historical sites were discussed, aimed at improving quality of life while promoting environmental conservation.

The Chief Minister directed improved maintenance of local parks, emphasizing that areas like Sanjay Van and Victoria Park should be revitalized. Highlighting the construction of the Meerut Mandapam as a significant cultural venue, he stated that it will provide the city with a new identity for hosting cultural activities.

Regarding road connectivity, the Chief Minister praised the planned 52 km Western Ring Road and the Inner Ring Road from Vedvyaspuri to Lohianagar as crucial for ensuring smooth traffic flow. Detailed discussions were held on plans to widen the proposed Inner Ring Road along the Abu Nala Pratham track, as well as regional connectivity roads including the Meerut-Parikshitgarh route and roads connecting Daurala-Mussoorie, Rohta, and Garh.

The Chief Minister was also informed that under the ‘CM Grid Meerut’ scheme, the city’s main roads will be transformed into smart roads featuring amenities such as underground utility ducts, LED lighting, footpaths, and advanced signal systems. He directed that the entire city be developed attractively by eliminating encroachments and ensuring no unauthorized constructions occur. Emphasizing infrastructure longevity, he stressed that utility ducts must be installed alongside road construction to avoid repeated digging in the future.

Highlighting Meerut’s traditional jewellery manufacturing, the Chief Minister said the city should be developed into a jewellery hub by organizing this craft. This would include providing shared workspaces, modern equipment, marketing support, and security infrastructure to artisans.

He was also informed that the scheme is being implemented with the collaboration of the Municipal Corporation, Urban Development Authority, Public Works Department, Irrigation Department, and Housing Development Board. He instructed all departments to maintain high quality standards and prioritize timely completion.

Regarding drainage and sewerage, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for long-term, future-ready planning. He called for scientifically and technically sound water management strategies that account for rising population density and evolving urban landscapes.

Describing the Integrated Divisional Office project as a direct link to the public, the Chief Minister suggested that its external facade should reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Concluding the meeting, the Chief Minister appreciated the inclusion of ideas gathered from the public and representatives through Hackathon 2.0 and stressed the importance of ensuring public participation in all schemes. He expressed his vision for Meerut to serve as an inspiring model for other cities in the state.