In a significant move to utilize underused urban spaces, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has received the green light to develop modern sports facilities and public amenities beneath the city's flyovers. The ambitious project, approved by the state government and the Chief Minister, will first focus on the Munshipulia-Polytechnic corridor.
Phase One: From Munshipulia to Kaleva Crossings
The initial phase of this urban rejuvenation plan will cover the land under the flyovers located between the Munshipulia crossing and the Kaleva crossing. According to officials, the financial and technical planning for this phase is complete. The physical work will commence immediately after the Public Works Department (PWD) issues a no-objection certificate.
The core objective is to bring structured, productive use to spaces that have remained largely neglected and underutilized for many years. This initiative aims to directly benefit residents, especially youth and children from nearby localities, by providing accessible recreational infrastructure within walking distance.
Comprehensive Amenities and Safety Features
The development blueprint is designed to be holistic, combining recreation, convenience, and safety. The key components include:
- Dedicated Sports Zones: Designated courts for popular sports like badminton, basketball, and the rapidly growing pickleball.
- Green and Rest Spaces: Plantation drives and the creation of seating areas for the public.
- Organized Parking: Allocated parking spaces intended to reduce chronic roadside congestion and clutter in the area.
- Essential Public Utilities: The construction of public toilets and drinking water facilities.
Safety has been made a paramount concern. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) will supervise the development work, with inputs from the traffic department. The plans incorporate:
- A single zebra crossing, transverse bar markings, and standard road signage.
- Reflective boards, railings, and bollards to control vehicle speed and minimize accident risks.
- Installation of CCTV cameras for round-the-clock monitoring of the area.
Broader Impact and City-Wide Vision
Civic officials highlight that this project will systematically free valuable urban land from encroachment and put it to constructive public use. The organized parking facilities are expected to significantly ease traffic congestion along the busy corridor.
Beyond the first phase, the LMC's proposal has a wider scope. It includes plans to construct similar amenities—such as public toilets, drinking water units, offices, and storerooms—under other flyovers across Lucknow. This indicates a city-wide strategy to reimagine and activate dead spaces beneath elevated roads, transforming them into vibrant community assets that promote health, safety, and civic order.
