Lucknow Development Authority to Transform Green Corridor with Multi-Sport Arenas
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop state-of-the-art sports arenas at three strategic locations beneath the city's Green Corridor. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive recreational facilities, including courts for badminton, basketball, tennis, pickleball, and box cricket, alongside dedicated kids' play areas and open gyms for fitness enthusiasts.
Strategic Locations and Development Plan
The project will utilize vacant spaces under the Green Corridor near Nishatganj Bridge, Hanuman Setu, and Daliganj Bridge. According to officials, this infrastructure will mirror the successful sports arena built under the Gwari Flyover in Gomtinagar, where basketball and badminton courts are already operational and popular among residents.
LDA Vice-Chairman Prathamesh Kumar finalized the plan after a thorough inspection of the corridor on Tuesday. He emphasized, "Substantial vacant space is available beneath the Green Corridor, which will be developed for public use with sports arenas, play areas, and open gyms to promote health and community engagement."
Green Corridor Nears Completion with Additional Enhancements
The Green Corridor project, stretching from Samatamulak to Daliganj, is in its final phase and is expected to be inaugurated later this month, opening for public movement soon after. During the inspection, Kumar issued instructions for several aesthetic and functional improvements:
- Installation of sculptures at newly built intersections to enhance visual appeal.
- Extensive plantation work along the medians to bolster greenery.
- Deployment of double-arm streetlights on the Nishatganj–Hanuman Setu stretch for better illumination and safety.
Additionally, road-widening work is actively underway between Nishatganj and Hanuman Setu to improve traffic flow. However, encroachment and roadside parking issues were noted near the Khatu Shyam Temple, where temporary stalls selling puja items were observed. Officials have directed the development of a designated parking space and vending zone near the temple to address these concerns and maintain order.
Complementary Development: Urmila Van and Connectivity
In a related development, the LDA is also working on Urmila Van, a green space spread over approximately 18 acres near the Kukrail river. To enhance accessibility, a slip road will be constructed from the Kukrail side, connecting Urmila Van with the Riverfront. This new route is designed to ease movement between the two sites, promoting seamless access for visitors and further enriching Lucknow's urban landscape.
This comprehensive approach underscores LDA's commitment to transforming underutilized spaces into vibrant public hubs, fostering sports, recreation, and community well-being across Lucknow.
