The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has approved the establishment of four integrated special economic zones (SEZs) on 10,500 hectares near Agra. The decision, made during a meeting on 30 January, 2024, will see the project developed within a 1.5km radius on both sides of the Yamuna Expressway. The board also gave the green light to YEIDA’s Master Plan 2041, an 18-year development blueprint for areas under the authority’s jurisdiction. A consultant has been tasked to submit a finalized master plan within the next two months.
The upcoming Special Economic Zones (SEZs) are set to host electronics and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing clusters and data centres. These will function as independent townships, complete with residential, commercial and institutional facilities for employees and workers. The industrial townships will incorporate significant green spaces and will only permit environmentally friendly, non-polluting industries due to the zone’s ecological sensitivity.
The regional government is prioritising development of the tourism and hospitality sector due to its proximity to tourist hotspots like the Taj Mahal. Land allocation in the area will be divided as follows: 25% for industries, 20% for residential areas, 17% for recreational green spaces, 13% for transportation facilities, 7% for institutional and tourism areas, 4% for commercial areas, and the remaining 7% for other uses. This strategic planning aims to boost the local economy while preserving the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has approved the construction of an aviation hub on 1,050 hectares near the upcoming airport on the Noida-Yamuna Expressway. The hub will house industries manufacturing planes, engines, and spare parts. A consultant will soon be appointed to prepare a detailed project report. Additionally, YEIDA has allocated 125 acres in Sector-28 for a semiconductor park to be developed by the Hiranandani Group. This is an increase from the previously allocated 91 acres, with changes in the layout given in-principle approval by the board.
Tarq Semiconductors, part of the Hiranandani Group, applied for land under the Indian Semiconductor Mission (ISM) scheme in April last year. The scheme requires a minimum of 125 acres, with 114 acres for industrial use and 11 acres for green spaces where no construction is permitted. The company is awaiting approval from the Central Government and the UP Cabinet to secure the land for its operations under the scheme.
Similarly, the Board granted approval for setting up air quality monitoring systems at two locations, acquiring five water sprinkler trucks, and anti-smog guns. These works require at least Rs three crore. In addition, the Board also approved the proposal to exclude institutional land for schools, colleges, and universities seeking land parcels of 10 acres or above from the e-auction process.
