UP to seek SC nod for tourism projects around Taj Mahal

The proposed projects' worth around the world heritage monument is approximately Rs 136 crore

Uttar Pradesh government would seek the Supreme Court nod for launching tourism projects around Taj Mahal in Agra.

The proposed projects worth Rs 136 crore are aimed at developing international level tourism infrastructure around the world heritage monument.

State chief minister Akhilesh Yadav today directed officials to seek the SC nod so that the proposed work could begin in right earnest.

The government also plans to develop areas falling outside the 500 metres radius of Taj Mahal as additional tourist spots.

Yadav was reviewing developmental projects worth almost Rs 2,800 crore pertaining to Agra.
 
He also directed officials to expedite the mega water pipeline project estimated at Rs 2,800 crore under financial assistance from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The pipeline would be laid from Bulandshahr to Agra to solve the drinking water problem in the Taj city.

He reviewed the progress of the proposed Agra Inner Ring Road to be built under public private partnership (PPP) model at an estimated cost of Rs 850 crore.

This proposed 6 lane road could be expanded to 8 lane, if needed, and would decongest city traffic. The 22.8 km road would connect Kanpur-Agra-Delhi highway to Gwalior, while the bidding process is likely to begin soon.
 
A world-class hotel and a hotel management institute have been proposed in Agra to give impetus to tourism.

Meanwhile, reviewing the projects of Kanpur, Yadav directed for carrying out renovation at the Green Park Stadium and equipping it with better lighting facilities.