“Lucknow is set to pioneer India’s first AI-powered colony in its IT City on Sultanpur Road, spanning 1,710 acres. This ambitious project by the Uttar Pradesh government aims to integrate intelligent infrastructure, sustainable living, and advanced technology, positioning Lucknow as a global tech hub. With a ₹10,732 crore investment, it promises innovation, jobs, and smart urban solutions.”
Lucknow’s IT City: A Blueprint for India’s AI Future
In a groundbreaking move, the Uttar Pradesh government is transforming Lucknow’s IT City on Sultanpur Road into the nation’s first AI-powered colony, a 1,710-acre project designed to redefine urban living. Announced in August 2025, this initiative, spearheaded by the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA), aims to establish a benchmark for smart, sustainable cities in North India, leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance infrastructure and services.
The project aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s ambitious goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2027, with Lucknow positioned as the epicenter of this digital transformation. The AI colony will integrate cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven traffic management, smart governance systems, and eco-conscious urban planning. This follows the state’s broader vision to develop Lucknow as India’s first AI City, supported by a ₹10,732 crore investment under the IndiaAI Mission, the largest tech infrastructure outlay by any Indian state.
The AI-powered colony will feature intelligent infrastructure, including AI-optimized transportation systems, energy-efficient buildings, and advanced data analytics for urban management. Every basic amenity, from water supply to waste management, will be integrated with AI to ensure efficiency and sustainability. The project is expected to create tens of thousands of jobs, ranging from backend support to high-skill AI research roles, attracting global tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Intel, who are collaborating to train 1.5 lakh professionals monthly in AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
Strategically located on Sultanpur Road, the IT City benefits from proximity to Lucknow International Airport and major highways, ensuring seamless connectivity. The colony will incorporate a walk-to-work model, blending luxury and affordable housing with commercial spaces, tech labs, and innovation hubs. This design promotes sustainable living while fostering collaboration between industry and academia, with institutions like IIM-Lucknow and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Technical University playing key roles in skill development.
The Uttar Pradesh government is also introducing an AI policy draft aligned with Vision 2047, emphasizing ethical AI use and innovation. The project includes plans for 10,000 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), multi-modal language models, and an AI innovation center, positioning Lucknow as a global leader in AI research. Additionally, an AI-based Intelligent Traffic Management System, proposed by MLA Rajeshwar Singh, is expected to reduce travel time by 25%, cut fuel usage by 20%, and improve emergency response times by 40%.
The AI colony is part of a broader push to digitize urban governance across Uttar Pradesh, with smart city initiatives in Lucknow and Varanasi exploring AI-driven solutions for traffic and public services. The state’s focus on fostering a robust IT ecosystem is evident in its support for over 800 tech businesses and 200+ startups in Lucknow, bolstered by Centers of Excellence at IIIT-Lucknow, which already supports over 15 AI and machine learning startups.
Financial incentives, including one-time capital expenditure support and 100% stamp duty exemption under the IT and ITeS Policy 2022, are being offered to attract developers. The government’s commitment is further underscored by its partnerships with international players from Singapore, the UAE, and Canada, aiming to draw global investment and expertise. This visionary project not only elevates Lucknow’s status as a tech hub but also sets a precedent for future urban development in India.
Disclaimer: This article is based on news reports, official announcements, and posts found on X. Information is sourced from credible outlets like Hindustan Times, Times of India, and other referenced web sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, readers are advised to verify details through official channels for the latest updates.