The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has finalized the blueprint for the development of the New Agra Urban Centre, a major project aimed at transforming agricultural land along the 165-kilometer Yamuna Expressway into a vibrant hub for tourism, heritage, and industrial growth.
The development will span 105,000 hectares, covering agricultural land from 60 villages in the Etmadpur tehsil, as published by Hindustan Times.
The New Agra Urban Centre will be divided into four primary zones: industry, environment, heritage, and transport. YEIDA officials highlighted the goal of balancing modern urban growth with the preservation of Agra’s historical legacy. The project is designed to modernize the region while maintaining the cultural and historical importance of the area, particularly in relation to Agra’s global landmarks, such as the Taj Mahal.
To create the master plan, YEIDA worked with a consultant who conducted extensive surveys of the region’s socio-economic and structural framework. The surveys revealed that approximately 80% of the surveyed villages are located in Hathras district, leading YEIDA to revise the plan to include more villages from Agra district. This adjustment aligns the project’s vision with its name.
Arun Vir Singh, CEO of YEIDA, explained, “We will now conduct on-site land verification to assess connectivity, encroachments, and other factors before submitting the proposal to the Uttar Pradesh government for inclusion in the Master Plan 2041.”
The New Agra project aims to become a major destination for tourism, leveraging Agra’s well-known appeal. The city will feature developments inspired by international and Indian historical sites, with attractions themed after Hollywood and Bollywood to offer visitors a unique cultural experience. The project will also feature green spaces, theme parks, and recreational zones to enhance environmental sustainability and tourism.
Environmental sustainability is a key focus, particularly within the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), an area near the Taj Mahal. YEIDA has emphasized the creation of pollution-free zones and the development of green industrial units. Industries in the area will focus on sectors like information technology, textiles, and soft toys to ensure eco-friendly operations.
In addition to preserving the environment, the development plan addresses regional traffic and transportation issues. New transport routes, parking facilities, and public transport systems are planned to reduce congestion and enhance connectivity, ensuring better accessibility to the New Agra Urban Centre.
Singh added that the goal is to create a modern, green, and vibrant city that respects Agra’s historical significance while fostering economic and tourism growth. The comprehensive development plan aims to ensure that New Agra meets the needs of both residents and visitors, while protecting the region’s cultural and environmental heritage.