By Tajdar H. Zaidi
Lucknow – In a proactive push towards enhancing Uttar Pradesh’s road infrastructure, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed all district officials to submit detailed and region-specific proposals under the Public Works Department (PWD)’s 18 flagship schemes by June 30, 2025.
The move is aimed at fast-tracking regional development through better connectivity, while ensuring that every part of the state benefits equitably from the government’s ambitious infrastructure mission.
Chairing a high-level review meeting, the chief minister emphasized the importance of timely and comprehensive planning and urged all district magistrates (DMs) to work in close coordination with local MLAs, MPs, and public representatives so that the proposals align with local priorities and grassroots needs rather than being shaped by political considerations.
“Development should not be governed by political boundaries but by the genuine needs and aspirations of the people,” CM Adityanath said, reiterating his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on delays and inefficiencies.
The PWD’s 18 flagship schemes include a wide range of critical infrastructure development objectives — from widening of roads connecting blocks and tehsils, and upgradation of district roads and state highways, to the construction of link roads for industrial and logistics parks aimed at boosting economic activity and job creation across the state.
Inclusive Development Across All 403 Assembly Segments
The chief minister laid particular emphasis on ensuring the equitable distribution of development work across the state. He directed officials to ensure that every one of the 403 assembly constituencies benefits from at least two to three major road and infrastructure projects, thereby delivering visible and measurable development outcomes in each region.
He also suggested a strong community involvement model by asking local elected representatives to take part in the ‘Bhoomi Pujan’ (foundation stone laying) ceremonies. This would not only foster a sense of ownership among the public but also strengthen the emotional and civic connection between people and infrastructure projects.
Road to Religious Tourism and Economic Prosperity
Chief Minister Adityanath also underlined the importance of integrating religious and spiritual tourism with economic development. He directed that the top 50 religious sites across Uttar Pradesh should be identified each year, and these should be prioritized for road construction, infrastructure upgrades, and better last-mile connectivity.
“Improving access to these sacred sites will not only enhance the pilgrim and tourist experience but also create avenues for employment, local entrepreneurship, and economic upliftment,” the statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) read.
Focus on Quality, Maintenance, and Transparency
CM Adityanath issued strong directives to ensure stringent quality control across all roadworks. He made it clear that potholes and poorly maintained roads will not be tolerated, and stressed the importance of regular maintenance, durability, and safety standards in all new constructions and repair work.
In order to streamline monitoring and ensure accountability, he mandated that every district must appoint a dedicated nodal officer responsible for conducting weekly reviews of all ongoing PWD projects.
Further, he insisted on the compulsory participation of elected public representatives in all monthly and bi-monthly review meetings to ensure greater transparency, faster feedback, and a corruption-free execution process.
Crackdown on Corruption and Unethical Contractors
In a no-nonsense directive, the chief minister also asked officials to identify and investigate any tainted, blacklisted, or suspicious contractors, ensuring that strict legal and disciplinary action is taken wherever malpractices are found.
“Those who compromise on quality or integrity have no place in Uttar Pradesh’s development journey,” he stated firmly.
With this roadmap, the Uttar Pradesh government is aiming not only to boost infrastructure but also to create a ripple effect of progress, touching every village, town, and city, enhancing economic opportunities, tourism, and social well-being across the state.
The renewed focus on speed, quality, accountability, and inclusiveness signals a transformative shift in the state’s infrastructure narrative — one that bridges roads, minds, and futures.