Uttar Pradesh Budget Allocates Rs 1,610 Crore for Forestry Initiatives and Electric Buses

The Uttar Pradesh government has outlined a significant budget for environmental and transport initiatives. In the 2026-27 Budget presented in the Assembly, Rs 800 crore is allocated for social forestry, Rs 220 crore for nursery management, and Rs 189 crore for compensatory afforestation. Since 2017, over 242.13 crore saplings have been planted in the state, with a target of 35 crore plantations set for the 2026 monsoon season.

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Despite facing substantial biotic pressure, Uttar Pradesh has achieved the second-highest increase in forest and tree cover in India. The government has also proposed Rs 207 crore to establish a night safari park in Lucknow's Kukrail forest area. Additionally, Rs 50 crore is earmarked for creating a corpus fund for the Ranipur Dam Foundation in Chitrakoot.

Environmental Initiatives and Waste Management

The state is focusing on waste management by planning facilities for hazardous waste disposal, common biomedical waste treatment, and e-waste recycling. These efforts aim to address environmental concerns and improve waste management infrastructure across Uttar Pradesh.

Under the World Bank-assisted Uttar Pradesh Clean Air Management Project from 2025-26 to 2030-31, Rs 194 crore has been proposed. This project is part of a broader strategy to enhance air quality and promote sustainable development within the state.

Transport Sector Developments

In the transport sector, the government plans to strengthen its bus fleet by allocating Rs 400 crore for electric buses. An additional Rs 150 crore is designated for constructing new bus stations to improve public transportation infrastructure.

To enhance road safety, Rs 50 crore has been allocated under the Chief Minister Zero Fatality Vision Scheme. This funding will support accident prevention measures and post-accident response strategies to reduce fatalities on roads.

Furthermore, another Rs 50 crore is set aside for establishing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at bus depots. This initiative aims to support the transition to electric vehicles and promote sustainable transportation options across the state.

These budget allocations reflect Uttar Pradesh's commitment to environmental sustainability and infrastructure development. By investing in forestry, waste management, and transport, the state aims to foster economic growth while addressing ecological challenges.

With inputs from PTI