Mayor showcases Lucknow’s urban development vision at Asean 2025 | Lucknow News
Lucknow: Mayor Sushma Kharkwal presented the progress of the state capital and plans for sustainable urban development at the Asean 2025 conference in Kuala Lumpur drawing international attention.Representing India alongside delegations from Indore, Surat and Panaji, she outlined initiatives in cleanliness, expansion of green spaces, smart waste management and the drive to position Lucknow as a “Knowledge City.” In her address, Kharkwal said: “The city’s vision extends beyond infrastructure upgrades, aiming for a cleaner environment, a knowledge-based economy and a stronger presence on the global stage.” She highlighted achievements including smart waste management projects, growth of green areas, cleanliness drives under the Swachh Bharat Mission and securing third place in the national cleanliness rankings. She also pointed to smart city projects that improved public services and citizen engagement. A panel discussion on challenges in city-to-city cooperation, focusing on legal, financial and institutional barriers was also held. During the conference, the mayor met representatives from several countries and shared Lucknow’s experiences in community participation, citizen-led development and environmental protection. She participated in the session “Strengthening the DC Partnerships for Sustainable Urban Development” with leaders from Türkiye, Philippines, the United Nations and Indian officials. Kharkwal said representing Lucknow at Asean 2025 was a matter of pride for the city and credited citizens and the administration for the progress achieved. Additional municipal commissioner Arvind Kumar Rao was also part of the delegation.
