The Uttar Pradesh government has announced an extensive expansion plan for Greater Ghaziabad, which includes merging neighboring municipal corporations and developing a new residential township. This initiative aims to improve infrastructure and enhance living conditions in the region.
As reported by the News 18, the plan involves merging the Loni and Khoda Municipal Corporations into the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC). This merger will increase the GMC’s area by approximately 220 square kilometers, marking a 30 percent expansion. Additionally, the population of Greater Ghaziabad is projected to grow by about 800,000. Following the merger, the GMC will encompass 189 wards, including 55 from Loni and 34 from Khoda.
Officials indicated that the proposal for the merger was sent to the Uttar Pradesh government by the Meerut Divisional Commissioner on November 25 of the previous year. On August 5, Deputy Secretary of the Town and Country Planning Department Amitabh Srivastava sought input from the Council of Ministers regarding the plan.
The merger is expected to provide several advantages:
- Infrastructure Improvements: Enhancements will be made to roads, water supply, sewer networks, and street lighting, improving overall living conditions.
- Business Environment: Improved infrastructure is anticipated to boost business activities, making Greater Ghaziabad a more attractive location for enterprises.
- Quality of Life: Residents will benefit from upgraded public amenities and services.
Alongside the municipal merger, the Uttar Pradesh government plans to develop a new residential area named Harnandipuram. This area will cover approximately 1,300 acres near the Hindon River and is intended to accommodate the increasing population. The township, also referred to as Naya Ghaziabad or New Ghaziabad, will offer modern housing and facilities.
The estimated cost for the Harnandipuram project is around ₹5,000 crore. The Uttar Pradesh government will fund 50 percent of the cost, while the remaining amount will be sourced by the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA).
The expansion of Greater Ghaziabad and the development of Harnandipuram are part of a strategic effort to manage urban growth and enhance infrastructure. By merging existing municipalities and creating new residential areas, the projects aim to accommodate future population increases and improve the region’s overall infrastructure.
As Greater Ghaziabad continues to expand, it is expected to become a major urban center in Uttar Pradesh, benefiting from improved infrastructure and a supportive business environment. The developments are projected to attract investment and new residents, contributing to the region’s economic growth and prosperity.
The merger of Loni and Khoda Municipal Corporations with the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation and the creation of Harnandipuram township represent significant strides in urban development for Uttar Pradesh. These projects are set to substantially enhance infrastructure, quality of life, and economic opportunities in Greater Ghaziabad.