LMC, LDA will work to give Ganj-like facelift to Chowk
The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) and the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) would jointly work on a project for Ganj-like facelift of the stretch between Chhota Imambara and Bara Imambara.
There have been two proposals for Chowk’s beautification - an earlier one mooted by a city-based architect who devised the Ganj plan and another one that came from MLC Bukkal Nawab, which was discussed in the meeting of the divisional commissioner recently.
The earlier plan, which required an investment of ` 50 crore), seems to have been put on the backburner due to lack of funds.
The second one, a ` 5-crore proposal, aims to beautify the Sheeshmahal pond, which is lying in a neglected state for long. Under this, decorative tiles depict- ing the nawabi era would dot the road from Chhota Imambara to Bara Imambara.
Besides, Ghantaghar would be illuminated in a specific theme, so that it is noticeable from a distance.
Similarly, the glory of Satkhanda Park would be restored and special lighting effects would also be ensured along with musical fountains.
Municipal commissioner Rakesh Kumar Singh said, “The Imambaras are the most valuable repository of the glorious past of the nawabi era. So, the LDA and the LMC will work together once the project is given clearance by the state government.”
The earlier proposal for Chowk’s facelift was more specific and scientific but it required more investment.
Under that plan, the pedestrian lane from Chhota Imambara to Bara Imambara was to be developed on the pattern of nawabi era. There was a proposal to divert traffic from these spots because this lane was to be reserved for tonga and ekka rides. To give a historical look, all the power cables were to be taken underground.