Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Approves Key Reforms for Land Use and Water Management
The Uttar Pradesh state cabinet, in a significant move on Monday, gave its approval to an ordinance that amends Section 80 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code of 2006. This legislative change introduces a streamlined system for converting land use in various designated areas, including those under development authorities, industrial authorities, regulated zones, and the UP Housing and Development Board.
Simplifying Land-Use Conversion Process
Finance Minister Suresh Khanna elaborated on the ordinance, highlighting that it eliminates the need for a separate application process when shifting land from agricultural to non-agricultural purposes. "When a building plan receives approval from the relevant authority, it will automatically be considered as land-use conversion," Khanna stated.
An official explained that previously, individuals and businesses had to navigate a cumbersome double process: first applying for land-use conversion and then seeking approval for their building plans. This often resulted in significant delays and bureaucratic hurdles.
"Under the new integrated system, all formalities are consolidated into the building plan approval process itself," the minister emphasized. This reform is expected to provide substantial relief to the public while making procedures simpler and more transparent. Khanna further noted that this change is anticipated to boost investment, accelerate industrial establishment, and give momentum to industrial development across Uttar Pradesh.
New Wastewater Reuse Policy Approved
In addition to the land-use ordinance, the cabinet cleared a comprehensive policy for treating and reusing wastewater generated from households and industries. This initiative aims to reduce pressure on the state's drinking water resources.
Finance Minister Khanna pointed out that demand for water in irrigation, domestic, industrial, and energy sectors has been continuously increasing. "The government has therefore planned to promote the safe use of water treated in Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) and Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs)," he explained.
The treated wastewater will be utilized in a phased approach:
- Initial Phase: Urban local bodies will use the treated water for construction work, gardening, and irrigation purposes.
- Second Phase: The usage will expand to other sectors such as industry, agriculture, and railways.
- Third Phase: A dual-pipe system will be implemented to ensure the supply of non-potable water to households for non-drinking purposes, further conserving precious drinking water.
Infrastructure Development for Religious Pilgrimage
The cabinet also approved funds for constructing a proper road for the 24 Kosi Parikrama in Sambhal. This religious pilgrimage takes place monthly at the Vanshgopal Tirth in Shambhal, but devotees have faced considerable difficulties due to the absence of a pucca (permanent) road.
An official noted that the cabinet has cleared a project to construct a 7-kilometer-long road around the pilgrimage route, with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 300 crore. This infrastructure development is expected to significantly improve the experience for devotees participating in the parikrama.
These cabinet decisions reflect the Uttar Pradesh government's focus on administrative simplification, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure enhancement to foster economic growth and public welfare across the state.
