Uttar Pradesh aims to become the first state in India to have 18 safe cities within three months, as announced by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The state government plans to upgrade all 17 municipal corporations and Gautam Budh Nagar as safe cities in the first phase. Adityanath emphasized the significance of the Safe City project in ensuring the safety of women and promoting respect and self-reliance.
Under the Lucknow police commissionerate, various security measures have already been implemented, including modern control rooms, pink police booths, Asha Jyoti Kendras (help centers), CCTV cameras, and help desks for counselors in women’s police stations. Adityanath instructed senior officials of the home department to take adequate steps to ensure the safety of the people and expand the existing security initiatives.
The Chief Minister directed that financial management and inter-departmental coordination be utilized for developing all 17 municipal corporations and Gautam Budh Nagar as safe cities in the first phase. In the second phase, municipalities in 57 district headquarters will be linked to the project, followed by 143 municipalities in the third phase. To showcase the progress, special branding will be implemented by placing boards reading Safe City at the entrances of these cities.
While the Safe City project initially focuses on women’s safety, Adityanath emphasized the need to expand it to include the safety of the elderly, children, and disabled individuals. The Integrated Traffic Management System installed under the Smart City Project has already enhanced the security system of the cities. As part of further security measures, the Chief Minister urged the installation of CCTV cameras at various locations in collaboration with traders. Additionally, CCTV cameras should be installed in all police stations across the state.
To ensure holistic safety, Adityanath emphasized the importance of organizing special programs at the district level for women, children, the elderly, and differently-abled individuals once a month. The Chief Minister also emphasized the collaboration between the departments of social welfare and urban development to rehabilitate people engaged in begging.
Furthermore, driver verification for public transport vehicles and route planning for e-rickshaws were emphasized to contribute to the concept of a Safe City. Adityanath also highlighted the need for the nearest police station to have complete information about tenants residing in the cities.
To enhance coordination and welfare schemes, the Chief Minister instructed officials to develop a Safe City portal and connect all relevant departments. The aim is to create a centralized platform to facilitate the implementation and monitoring of the initiatives focused on women, children, the elderly, and disabled individuals.
By adhering to these guidelines and implementing comprehensive measures, Uttar Pradesh aims to become a pioneer in establishing safe cities, ensuring the safety, security, and self-reliance of its residents. The state government is committed to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can live without fear or threat to their well-being.
