The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has implemented significant changes, including capping the mutation fee at INR 10,000 and withdrawing extra charges from 20 business sectors, benefiting over 200,000 business owners. Plans are underway to survey and cover open drains after a recent tragedy, and sewer issues in Munshipulia will be addressed. Additional projects include disaster relief equipment procurement, upgrading municipal schools with smart screens, constructing entry gateways to the city, and organising street vending zones for Diwali. The LMC is also set to replace an old municipal school with modern infrastructure, including underground parking.
The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) has announced a new flat rate of INR 10,000 for the mutation fee. This decision, taken by the executive committee last week, signifies a major shift from the earlier system, where the mutation fee was set at 1% of the property's value. For example, under the previous rule, the mutation fee for a property valued at INR 1 crore would have been INR 1 lakh. However, with the new rule, the fee will now be capped at INR 10,000.
The new fee structure is expected to take a minimum of two months to come into effect. The proposal will initially be sent to the administration for approval, and upon approval, it will be passed by the municipal corporation. The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) already charges a flat rate of INR 10,000 for mutation, which has pressured the municipal corporation to reduce its fees accordingly. In a related decision, the LMC has agreed to withdraw additional charges previously imposed on 20 different business sectors, including parlours, restaurants, and hotels. This decision, taken after strong opposition from the business community, is expected to benefit over 200,000 business owners in the city.
Additionally, the LMC has decided to conduct a survey of open drains in the city and cover them with protective nets. This action follows the tragic incident where a seven-year-old girl fell into an open drain in Wazirganj on 5th September. The Executive Committee, led by Mayor Sushma Kharkwal, has also decided to address sewer-related issues in Munshipulia. The estimated cost for this project is approximately INR 21 crores. The proposal for this expenditure will be submitted to the state government for approval. Special care will be taken to ensure that no bridges or crossings are damaged during the work. The Executive Committee also emphasised the importance of reporting complaints to local corporators and ensuring that health ATMs remain fully operational. Signage boards will be installed at all cremation grounds and burial sites to provide information regarding available facilities and regulations.
To improve traffic flow, unauthorised parking and encroachments around KGMU and Old Lucknow will be addressed. Additionally, the construction of a new temple entrance in the Bandhi Mata area and the installation of statues of Chandra Shekhar Azad and poet Valmiki in local parks were also approved. Another decision involved the construction of new entry gateways to welcome visitors to the city. The Executive Committee announced that Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma has allocated a grant of INR 1.5 crore for city schools. This funding will be used to purchase smart screens for six municipal schools, with plans to expand the initiative if additional funds are secured.
In preparation for emergencies, the city will also acquire essential disaster relief equipment. Basic facilities will be provided at labour camps throughout the city. The old Municipal School building on Chhitwapur Road in Lal Kuan Ward will be demolished and replaced with a new school, community hall, park, and underground parking. As the Diwali festival approaches, the Executive Committee has directed officials to complete the establishment of vending zones. This will help organise street vending and enhance the festive appearance of the city.
The recent decisions by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) reflect a strong commitment to improving city infrastructure, public safety, and business-friendly policies. By capping mutation fees, addressing pressing issues like open drains and sewer problems, and investing in education and disaster preparedness, the LMC aims to create a more organised and safer environment for both residents and visitors. The focus on enhancing the city's aesthetics with new entry gateways and vending zones ahead of Diwali demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that balances modernisation with cultural vibrancy. These initiatives signal positive development for Lucknow's future.
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