The government of Uttar Pradesh is planning to build a new city new Agra, according to a report in the Times of India.

As reported, the city will come up around 190 kms from Noida and it will be about 150 kms from the Noida airport in Jewar. The city will cover an area of 10,500 hectares, which is approximately half the size of Noida.

To ensure a well-planned development, the Yamuna Expressway Authority (YXPA) has invited consultants to create a 10 year master plan to address various aspects such as transportation links with other cities, environmental impact assessment, and strategies for sustainable growth.

The primary objective behind this new city is to accommodate the anticipated population surge that will be triggered by the upcoming Noida International Airport. The airport is expected to commence passenger operations later this year, attracting both domestic and international tourists. In addition, due to its proximity to Agra, where the iconic Taj Mahal is located, the airport will serve as a gateway for visitors to one of the world's seven wonders. Consequently, there will be a need for additional tourism facilities in the region.

The official document shared by the YXPA with the consultants emphasizes the project's aim to enhance the investment climate and promote economic development through the creation of a sustainable environment. The jurisdiction of the YXPA covers land along the 165km-long expressway, including Noida, Bulandshahr, Mathura, Aligarh, and Agra. While master plans have already been developed for Gautam Budh Nagar, Aligarh, and Mathura, Agra has been lacking such a plan. Therefore, the YXPA is in the process of hiring a consultant to prepare a plan specifically for the development of the region surrounding the tourist city.

Given the significance of the Taj Mahal, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the environmental impact of the new city is of utmost importance. Shailendra Bhatia, an officer on special duty at YXPA, stressed that only green industries will be promoted in order to regulate pollution risks. Sustaining the pristine beauty of the monument is crucial, and therefore, no polluting activities will be permitted in its vicinity.

Key points:

The city will come uo on 10,500 hectares

It will be half the size of Noida

The city will about 190 kms from Noida, and 150 km from Jewar airport

YXPA making a 10-year master plan

The new city is being built considering population surge due to the Jewar airport