Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed opposition criticism over the Rs 4,000 crore expenditure on the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, clarifying that only Rs 1,500 crore was spent on the event while the remaining Rs 2,500 crore was invested in upgrading Prayagraj’s infrastructure. Speaking at the inauguration of two major flyover projects in Lucknow, the CM emphasized that the Maha Kumbh is not just a religious gathering but a significant economic driver, contributing Rs 3 lakh crore to the state’s economy through tourism and trade.
Yogi highlighted the state’s efforts to enhance connectivity for the massive influx of devotees, with road, rail, and air infrastructure playing a pivotal role. On Mauni Amavasya, a record 8 crore devotees bathed at the Sangam, with seamless arrangements ensuring zero disruptions. He also urged Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to approve two key projects in Prayagraj—a new bridge parallel to Shastri Bridge and a signature bridge over the Yamuna River—to further improve connectivity for future large-scale events.
The CM praised Gadkari for his role in Lucknow’s transformation, including the development of an Aero City and an Artificial Intelligence (AI) City, alongside infrastructure projects worth over Rs 1,000 crore. He also acknowledged Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s contributions to UP’s growth, particularly in advancing the BrahMos missile manufacturing project in Lucknow and strengthening the state’s Defence Corridor initiative.
Yogi outlined Lucknow’s development as a State Capital Region, with key projects like the Green Corridor, Kisan Path, International Convention Centre, and an International Airport shaping it into a global city. He also highlighted plans to connect the Yamuna Expressway and Purvanchal Expressway, positioning Lucknow as a transportation hub.
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Yogi stated that Uttar Pradesh is emerging as the growth engine of India, with remarkable progress in investment, industry, tourism, and infrastructure. The state’s transformation into ‘New Uttar Pradesh of New India’ reflects its commitment to providing world-class facilities and fostering economic development.
