Uttar Pradesh Government Unveils Subsidy Scheme to Boost Wayside Amenities Along Key Travel Routes
In a significant move aimed at enhancing travel infrastructure and promoting tourism, the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a comprehensive subsidy scheme to encourage the development of high-quality wayside amenities along the state’s key transportation corridors.
According to an official communiqué, the initiative is designed to improve the travel experience for commuters and tourists alike while simultaneously creating lucrative business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
Scope and Objectives of the Scheme
The scheme targets the development of essential roadside infrastructure, including dhabas (traditional eateries), motels, modern food plazas, and air-conditioned public toilet complexes.
These facilities are to be constructed along various types of highways, such as national highways, state highways, expressways, and roads that provide access to popular tourist destinations across Uttar Pradesh.
The overarching goal of the scheme is to transform the state’s highways into well-serviced travel routes that cater to the needs of modern-day travellers.
It seeks not only to provide comfort and convenience to those journeying through the state but also to empower local business owners and investors by providing them with an incentive-laden platform to participate in infrastructure development.
Capital Subsidy and Land Incentives
A cornerstone of the scheme is the provision of a capital expenditure subsidy of up to 30%. This financial assistance will be offered to individuals and businesses that establish eligible facilities under the program.
By subsidizing initial development costs, the government aims to reduce financial barriers to entry and accelerate the construction of such public-facing infrastructure.
To encourage broader participation, the scheme also includes major concessions in land acquisition costs. Specifically, the government has announced a complete waiver of stamp duty and registration charges for land purchased with the intent to develop wayside amenities under this initiative.
This move is expected to make it more attractive for entrepreneurs to invest in the project, particularly in rural or semi-urban regions, where such facilities are currently lacking.
Eligible Locations and Land Use Flexibility
The scheme allows for considerable flexibility in terms of where these amenities can be developed. According to the guidelines, eligible facilities can be established not only on newly acquired land but also on existing private properties such as:
- Marriage lawns
- Petrol and diesel fuel stations
- Vacant plots along major roads and tourist corridors
This provision enables landowners with existing real estate holdings in strategic locations to benefit from the scheme without needing to make significant additional investments in land procurement.
Modern Facilities and Infrastructure Upgrades
In addition to new establishments, the scheme also extends benefits to pre-existing roadside amenities. Businesses that already operate eateries or other traveler services along highways can apply for subsidies to upgrade their infrastructure in line with modern standards.
Under the scheme, the following enhancements are eligible for support:
- Construction of well-maintained, hygienic toilet blocks (3–5 units each for men and women)
- Accessible toilets for persons with disabilities
- Designated play areas for children
- Installation of RO (reverse osmosis) water filtration systems
- Modular kitchens and deep freezers to support efficient food service operations
- Development of proper seating areas, parking facilities, and landscaping
These upgrades aim to bring uniformity and quality to roadside service centers, making them more appealing to both domestic and international tourists.
Promotion and Visibility Support from the Government
To ensure maximum visibility and engagement from the public, the Tourism Department of Uttar Pradesh will actively promote registered facilities through a variety of promotional tools.
This includes the installation of directional signboards, glow signs, and a digital listing of the amenities on the state’s official tourism website. Such promotion will help travelers easily locate these service centers, thereby increasing footfall and profitability for business owners.
Registration and Participation Details
Entrepreneurs, existing dhaba owners, private investors, and other eligible applicants can register their interest in the scheme through the online portal managed by the Tourism Department. The application process is streamlined to encourage widespread participation, with clear guidelines available for both new projects and upgrades to existing facilities.
Importantly, the last date for registration under the current phase of the scheme is May 25, giving stakeholders a window of opportunity to benefit from this initiative.
Conclusion: A Win-Win for Travellers and the Local Economy
This forward-thinking initiative from the Uttar Pradesh government is poised to redefine highway travel across the state, turning long and tiresome journeys into more comfortable and convenient experiences.
At the same time, it promises to generate employment, support local entrepreneurship, and contribute to the growth of tourism-related infrastructure—key goals for any developing state aiming to attract both domestic and international travelers.
By blending economic incentives with public welfare, the Yogi Adityanath administration has signaled its commitment to building a more connected, tourist-friendly, and business-enabling Uttar Pradesh
