Agra, April 7 (NationPress) In a transformative event poised to redefine the future of the iconic Taj Mahal city, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath unveiled an impressive development initiative for Agra by inaugurating and initiating 325 projects valued at a staggering Rs 6,466.37 crore.

The centerpiece of the grand ceremony, conducted at Rahan Kalan adjacent to the Agra Inner Ring Road, was the Bhoomi Pujan for the visionary 'Greater Agra' township — a project aimed at evolving Agra from a tourism-centric locale into a modern, safe, cultural, and economic powerhouse.

During his address, CM Yogi Adityanath proclaimed that Greater Agra is set to emerge as the 'Second Noida', drawing major corporations and creating new job opportunities for the youth. The township is being developed by the Agra Development Authority (ADA) under the Uttar Pradesh government's 'New City Promotion Scheme' (also known as Chief Minister Urban Expansion/New City Encouragement Scheme). It will cover an area of 449.65 hectares in the Raipur and Rahan Kalan regions at an estimated investment of about Rs 5,142 crore.

This project has already secured the green light from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). A distinctive aspect of the Greater Agra township is that its ten sectors (small townships) will be named after revered Indian rivers, such as Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and Godavari, alongside others like Sindhu, Gomti, and Kaveri. This naming convention showcases a unique combination of India's rich cultural heritage and modern urban planning.

The development will feature multi-story apartments, group housing communities, residential plots, extensive modern roadways, cutting-edge sewage and drainage systems, lush green spaces, parks, consistent power supply, and a range of essential civic amenities.

The initiative aims to provide quality housing for upwards of 10,000 families, fostering a secure and livable environment that harmonizes modernity with Sanatan cultural values.

The Chief Minister stressed that the government's vision extends beyond tourism, aiming to establish Agra as a thriving economic center. With its strategic location along the Inner Ring Road and proximity to the Yamuna and Lucknow Expressways, the township is anticipated to attract substantial industrial and corporate investments, generating thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities.

Despite adverse weather that delayed his arrival — necessitating a return via the Mathura-Vrindavan route and waiting at Agra Airport until 3:30 p.m. — CM Yogi expressed his delight at the enthusiastic public turnout. He extended his gratitude to the people of Agra for their unwavering support, noting that they had elected nine MLAs, a Mayor, an MP, and a District Panchayat Chairperson. In return, the government has delivered critical infrastructure such as the Agra Metro, with its second phase progressing at a rapid pace.

During the ceremony, foundation stones were laid, and various projects were inaugurated across sectors, including infrastructure, tourism, housing, and connectivity.

The CM announced that the development of Agra Airport would be accelerated, with a new civil terminal projected to be completed by the end of 2026.

A special emphasis will also be placed on the Fatehpur Sikri area. If the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is prepared swiftly, a rubber dam will be constructed in the city to manage water resources effectively.

In his speech, CM Yogi highlighted the contrast between global instability and India's steady progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

While many nations are grappling with war-induced devastation and soaring inflation — with petrol prices surging in the United States and Pakistan facing severe crises — India has managed to control inflation through prudent fiscal measures.

He underscored the abrogation of Article 370, which has significantly curtailed terrorism in Kashmir, along with ongoing efforts to eradicate Naxalism and Maoism.

Taking a jab at previous administrations, the Chief Minister remarked that the 'double-engine government' has dismantled mafia networks that once enjoyed political cover, rendering them obsolete. He pointed to the revival of cultural heritage in Ayodhya, Mathura, and Sambhal as testaments to the government's dedication to Sanatan values.

CM Yogi urged the public to remain united in safeguarding India's civilizational heritage and pledged to return to Agra soon for the inauguration of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Memorial, a new museum, and the second phase of the Agra Metro project.

This extensive development initiative highlights the Yogi government's committed approach towards balanced urban growth, job creation, and cultural preservation.

By transforming Greater Agra into a contemporary satellite city inspired by Noida's achievements, Agra is primed to experience remarkable economic growth while preserving its spiritual and historical identity.

Officials and local leaders expressed optimism that these initiatives will greatly enhance the quality of life and elevate Agra as a premier urban center in Uttar Pradesh.