In a significant move to elevate its cultural and tourism profile, Lucknow is set for a major infrastructure and service overhaul. The Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled a multi-pronged plan that includes a dedicated Culture Complex, a new campus for a premier music university, and a heritage-themed bus service to connect the city's iconic landmarks.
Integrated Cultural Hub and University Expansion
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh announced on Tuesday that a dedicated Culture Building will be developed near Shaheed Path. This complex is designed to house the offices of various institutions under the culture department, creating a one-stop integrated ecosystem. The minister emphasized that this move aims to improve coordination, enhance public access, and centralize the city's cultural and heritage offerings.
In a parallel development reinforcing Lucknow's status as a centre for classical arts, a new campus of Bhatkhande Culture University will be developed to international standards. This expansion is expected to significantly boost the city's standing in the realm of music and cultural education.
Living Heritage Focus and Tourist Experience
Minister Singh outlined a vision that moves beyond static monuments. He stated that Lucknow's identity as a heritage city encompasses its music, literature, crafts, cuisine, and everyday traditions. Future tourism planning will, therefore, focus on projecting Lucknow as a 'living heritage' destination where culture is an active, lived experience.
To immediately enhance the visitor experience, a key new service is launching soon. A double-decker sightseeing bus service will commence operations on January 6. This bus will run between 1090 Crossing and the historic Residency, offering affordable tickets and curated tours. The route is designed to allow tourists to cover major heritage areas and cultural landmarks in a single, convenient circuit.
Roadmap for Global Recognition
During a review of the tourism and culture departments, Minister Singh directed officials to create a focused roadmap. The goal is ambitious: to position Lucknow alongside Agra and Varanasi on the international tourism map. He stressed the importance of timely completion of ongoing projects like museums, memorials, and cultural centres.
Quality, transparency, and accountability were highlighted as non-negotiable principles for all development projects. Senior officials reviewed the progress of various initiatives, with the overarching objective being to create destinations that seamlessly blend rich heritage with modern visitor amenities. This holistic approach aims to transform Lucknow into a vibrant hub for living heritage tourism, offering a unique and immersive experience to visitors from across the globe.
