Specific projects mentioned included ongoing construction in Hardoi, Etah, Kushinagar, Pratapgarh, Rae Bareli, Ballia, Prayagraj, Kannauj, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, among others and multiple sites in Lucknow. Many of these projects are nearing completion, with strict timelines set for those still in progress.
Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Culture Minister, Jaiveer Singh, has directed that tenders for all projects approved by the Tourism and Culture Department for the financial year 2023-24 must be issued by June 30, 2024. Minister instructed departmental officials and implementing agencies to start work on a war footing, during a review meeting held at the Tourism Department in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. He also reviewed the progress of previously approved projects.
Singh emphasised the critical role of tourism in the state’s economy. He highlighted the potential for significant employment opportunities and income generation through tourism, aligning with the Chief Minister’s vision of creating a $1 trillion economy.
The Minister instructed that work on these projects should commence immediately after the end of the Model Code of Conduct. He issued a stern warning that implementing agencies failing to complete projects within the stipulated time frame will face penalties. “Timely and quality completion of these projects will not only increase the number of tourists but also have a direct positive impact on the state’s economy, providing employment and benefiting various business sectors,” said Singh.
The meeting underscored the importance of regular ground inspections by officers to ensure project progress and quality. Additionally, the Minister mandated third-party inspections of completed projects. He also suggested enhancing the aesthetic appeal of public spaces by adorning the walls of Ramleela Maidans in various districts with beautiful murals and paintings to offer visitors a unique experience.
Specific projects mentioned during the review included ongoing construction in Hardoi, Etah, Kushinagar, Pratapgarh, Rae Bareli, Ballia, Prayagraj, Kannauj, Gorakhpur, Shahjahanpur, Mainpuri, Balrampur, Varanasi, and multiple sites in Lucknow. Many of these projects are nearing completion, with strict timelines set for those still in progress.
Principal Secretary of Tourism and Culture, Mukesh Kumar Meshram, reiterated the importance of timely tender issuance and project completion with a focus on quality. He warned of strict actions against negligence.
The review meeting was attended by several key officials, including Managing Director of Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation, Ravi Ranjan, Director of Tourism Prakhar Mishra, Advisor J.P. Singh, Deputy Director, Dinesh and Kalyan Singh along with PM/APM of various implementing agencies.
