UP Government Considers Sealed Sahara Shahar Land for New Vidhan Sabha Complex
In a significant development, the Uttar Pradesh government is actively exploring the possibility of repurposing the sealed Sahara Shahar in Lucknow's upscale Gomti Nagar as the site for a new Vidhan Sabha complex. This move comes months after the sprawling property was sealed, with officials indicating that a feasibility study is now underway to assess its suitability for housing the state legislative assembly.
Prime Location and Land Requirements
The proposed site spans approximately 170 acres in Gomti Nagar, a prime location that is merely a 15-minute drive from the Chief Minister's residence. This strategic positioning makes it an attractive option for the new Assembly complex. Sources within the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) have highlighted that the land meets the substantial requirement of around 200 acres needed to accommodate over 500 legislators, their staff, party offices, and the Vidhan Sabha secretariat.
Officials have confirmed that the LDA has decided to conduct a detailed feasibility study specifically for Sahara Shahar, after examining land in various other areas. The final decision will only be made once the feasibility report is complete, ensuring a thorough evaluation of all factors involved.
Feasibility Study and Budget Considerations
A senior LDA official stated, "We are in the process of appointing a consultant to prepare a detailed report on the feasibility of Sahara City land for construction of the new Vidhan Sabha building." This report will not only assess the land's suitability but also consider future traffic movement in the area, given the expected influx of vehicles from 403 MLAs, 100 MLCs, and their staff during Assembly sessions.
All eyes are on the upcoming annual budget for 2026-2027, which is scheduled to be tabled in the State Assembly on Wednesday. It is anticipated that funds for this ambitious project will be allocated in this budget, marking a critical step forward in the planning process.
Historical Context and Legal Considerations
The land in question was originally leased for 30 years in 1995 by the then Mulayam Singh Yadav-led government to Sahara India Commercial Corporation Ltd through a lease deed and licence agreement. This lease expired in 2024, leading to the sealing of the property. Subsequently, the Lucknow Municipal Corporation took possession of about 170 acres, including a green belt, while the LDA acquired 75 acres.
However, the matter remains subjudice in the Allahabad High Court. Sources indicate that the government will need to prepare a comprehensive project and land use plan to present before the court, ensuring all legal protocols are followed before any construction can commence.
Addressing Legislative Needs
The push for a new Vidhan Sabha building stems from long-standing concerns about the inadequacy of the old structure, which was inaugurated in 1928. Three years ago, UP Legislative Assembly speaker Satish Mahana raised this issue with the Chief Minister, emphasizing that the current facility no longer meets the demands of the growing legislative body and its associated functions.
This initiative reflects the government's commitment to modernizing state infrastructure and enhancing the efficiency of legislative operations. As the feasibility study progresses, stakeholders await further updates on this potential transformation of Sahara Shahar into a hub of democratic governance.
