Uttar Pradesh is advancing its urban landscape through the Smart Cities Mission, integrating technology to enhance infrastructure, governance, and sustainability. With 17 smart cities, including 10 central and 7 state-designated, UP focuses on digital governance, smart mobility, and eco-friendly solutions. Recent plans to upgrade 57 municipalities with ₹40,000 crore highlight the state’s commitment to inclusive urban development.
Uttar Pradesh Harnesses Technology for Urban Renewal
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, is at the forefront of urban transformation through the Smart Cities Mission, launched by the Government of India in June 2015. The initiative aims to develop sustainable, citizen-friendly cities by leveraging Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). In UP, 10 cities—Agra, Aligarh, Bareilly, Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Moradabad, Prayagraj, Saharanpur, and Varanasi—were selected as Central Smart Cities through a competitive process. Additionally, in 2019, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath designated seven more Nagar Nigams—Ayodhya, Firozabad, Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Mathura, Meerut, and Shahjahanpur—as State Smart Cities, bringing the total to 17.
The mission focuses on modernizing infrastructure, enhancing governance, and promoting sustainability. Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) are operational in all 10 Central Smart Cities, serving as hubs for real-time monitoring of traffic, surveillance, air quality, and waste management. For instance, Lucknow’s ICCC integrates data to streamline urban management, while Varanasi’s command centre has been pivotal in managing events like the 2019 Kumbh Mela. These centres employ AI-driven systems and CCTV surveillance, with over 84,000 cameras installed nationwide for public safety.
Urban mobility is a key focus, with UP implementing intelligent traffic systems, smart parking, and eco-friendly transport options. Cities like Bareilly and Moradabad have introduced GPS-enabled buses and e-rickshaws for last-mile connectivity. Varanasi, a global tourism hub, has developed smart roads and riverfront beautification projects, balancing heritage preservation with modern infrastructure. Prayagraj is enhancing connectivity and public spaces, particularly for events like the Kumbh Mela, with temporary smart city facilities.
Sustainability is central to UP’s smart city vision. Gorakhpur is expanding green spaces and adopting clean energy solutions, while Moradabad has implemented smart waste management and energy-efficient lighting. Water management systems, monitored by SCADA technology, ensure efficient usage and leak detection across 17,026 km of pipelines nationwide. UP’s cities are also promoting digital governance through e-governance platforms, smart apps, and online grievance redressal systems to boost citizen engagement.
In April 2025, the UP government announced an ambitious ₹40,000 crore plan to transform 57 municipalities, primarily district headquarters, into smart cities. This initiative includes digital systems for traffic management, AI-driven civic services, and chatbot-based citizen interaction. Infrastructure upgrades like CC roads, digital libraries, and exhibition centres are planned, alongside measures to control pollution and ensure uninterrupted power and water supply.
UP’s efforts have earned recognition, with the state securing third place in the India Smart City Awards 2023. Varanasi ranked first among cities with over 10 lakh population, and Agra was named the third-best smart city nationally. Lucknow has excelled in cleanliness and employment training, while Kanpur modernized its municipal sports stadium. These achievements reflect UP’s commitment to smart urban planning.
Challenges persist, including delays in land acquisition, funding issues, and coordination gaps between departments. Public awareness and participation also need strengthening to ensure inclusive growth. However, with consistent investment and stakeholder collaboration, UP is poised to set a benchmark for smart urbanization in India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information sourced from government websites, news reports, and official releases related to the Smart Cities Mission in Uttar Pradesh. Data is accurate as of August 2025 and subject to change based on ongoing developments. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels for the latest updates.