Lucknow: Lucknow’s iconic Hazratganj boulevard, a vibrant blend of history and commerce, is gearing up for a transformative revamp that promises to elevate its aesthetic appeal and functionality. Known for its Victorian-era architecture and bustling market scene, this historic precinct in the heart of the Uttar Pradesh capital is set to undergo its first major overhaul in 15 years, with plans finalized as of early 2025. The ambitious project, led by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), aims to preserve the area’s heritage while introducing modern upgrades to enhance the experience for residents, traders, and tourists alike.
A Fresh Look for a Historic Boulevard
One of the standout features of the revamp is a shift in Hazratganj’s color palette. The current cream-pink facades will give way to a more refined light peach and walnut brown theme. “The new color scheme will lend a sophisticated and uniform look to Hazratganj, making it visually striking while respecting its historical essence,” said LDA Vice-Chairman Prathmesh Kumar in a recent statement. This aesthetic upgrade is part of a broader effort to restore the boulevard’s charm, which has been a hallmark of Lucknow’s identity since its establishment in the 19th century under Nawab Nasiruddin Haider.
The Hazratganj Market Association is playing a key role by funding the painting of shop walls and installing new signages. Anil Gupta, president of the association, emphasized the traders’ enthusiasm: “We’re contributing around ₹50 lakh to ensure the market reflects a cohesive and elegant vibe. It’s an investment in our future.” Meanwhile, the state government has committed ₹2 crore to support larger infrastructure improvements, signaling a collaborative push to revitalize the area.
Beyond Aesthetics: Practical Upgrades
The revamp isn’t just skin-deep. Traffic congestion, a persistent issue in Hazratganj, will be tackled through a dedicated traffic management plan. “We’re working on streamlining vehicle movement and pedestrian flow to make the area more accessible,” explained Municipal Commissioner Inderjit Singh. Encroachments, which have long cluttered the boulevard’s wide streets, are also being cleared to restore its original spaciousness.
Civic infrastructure is another focus, with plans to repair roads, upgrade street lighting, and enhance drainage systems. “The goal is to make Hazratganj not just beautiful but functional,” Singh added. The project includes installing modern LED streetlights and improving sanitation facilities, ensuring the area meets contemporary urban standards while retaining its old-world charm.
A Collaborative Vision
The initiative has garnered widespread support from local stakeholders. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who reviewed the proposal in late March 2025, called it “a step toward showcasing Lucknow’s rich culture on a modern canvas.” He directed officials to complete the revamp by mid-2025, ahead of the city’s peak tourist season. Traders, too, see it as a boon for business. “A refreshed Hazratganj will attract more footfall, especially from younger crowds and tourists,” said Ritu Sharma, a shop owner who has run a boutique on the boulevard for over a decade.
A Legacy Reimagined
Hazratganj, often dubbed the “Connaught Place of Lucknow,” has long been a cultural and commercial hub. Its wide streets, lined with heritage buildings like the General Post Office and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, tell stories of a bygone era. Yet, years of wear and unplanned growth had dulled its sheen. This revamp, blending a ₹2.5 crore investment with community effort, aims to restore that lost glory. As LDA’s Kumar put it, “Hazratganj will shine as a symbol of Lucknow’s past and its promising future.”
With work set to begin in April 2025, the revamped boulevard is poised to emerge as a rejuvenated landmark, marrying tradition with modernity in true Nawabi style.
