LUCKNOW: The state government is set to initiate the second phase of the aspirational towns program, aimed at upgrading 100 urban local bodies in a phased approach. Launched in September 2023, the scheme focuses on enhancing essential services and amenities in smaller towns, with 100 of the most underdeveloped local bodies selected for funding.
As the first phase concluded on March 31 after achieving its goals, the state has identified 100 additional towns, each with a population between 20,000 and 100,000. Senior officials from the urban development department announced a budget of ₹175 crores to improve civic amenities in these towns.
“The scheme will run until March 31, 2028. We have established a dashboard and operational procedures based on NITI Aayog recommendations, with trained CM urban fellows appointed to monitor implementation and assist urban local bodies in meeting targets,” stated a senior officer.
The initiative will focus on key areas including urban infrastructure, social facilities, local body buildings, water body restoration, and park construction. While Mohanlalganj saw improvements in the previous phase, Bakshi Ka Talab Nagar Panchayat has been selected in Lucknow this time. Other selected local bodies include Golabazar in Gorakhpur, Bilari in Moradabad, Richa in Bareilly, and Zaidpur in Barabanki among the 100 ULBs chosen.
