LUCKNOW, May 21 -- The state government has moved ahead with plans to develop the Uttar Pradesh State Capital Region (UPSCR), directing departments to submit their feedback on 29 identified projects covering transport, infrastructure, economy and tourism before detailed implementation proposals are prepared, according to an official press release. The decision emerged during a high-level meeting chaired by chief secretary SP Goyal at Lok Bhavan on Wednesday, marking a key step towards executing the ambitious regional development plan covering six districts, including Lucknow. According to officials, the UPSCR project aims to integrate Lucknow with Sitapur, Unnao, Hardoi, Barabanki and Rae Bareli under a single development framework spread across nearly 26,000 square kilometres. Authorities are preparing a GIS-based regional master plan for the project. Officials have identified several large-scale transportation projects to improve connectivity among the six districts. The proposed projects include the State Capital Mala regional road network, elevated peripheral roads and road upgradation works to strengthen movement within the region. Authorities have also proposed projects such as a Transport Nagar, an orbital rail corridor and an expanded metro network to support future urban and regional mobility requirements. Along with transport infrastructure, the government has proposed projects aimed at accelerating economic growth. Officials identified industrial development hubs, logistics parks, food parks and corridor-oriented development along the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway among key initiatives. LDA vice-chairman Prathamesh Kumar informed the meeting that these projects had been identified after examining future growth requirements of the region. The chief secretary instructed departments concerned to provide their observations and recommendations on the proposed projects so detailed plans can be prepared and implementation can move forward. Officials said the SCR initiative could attract investments, create jobs and expand business opportunities while extending urban facilities to surrounding areas. They added that stronger high-speed connectivity among districts may also reduce migration by allowing residents to access employment and services closer to their hometowns....