The Union Housing Ministry has terminated plans to develop eight new greenfield cities, citing inadequate planning frameworks. The unused Rs 8,000 crore grant from the 15th Finance Commission will be redeployed to bolster seven existing economic zones for optimized growth.

Uttar Pradesh has allocated ₹700 crore to boost smart infrastructure in 7 cities including Ayodhya and Ghaziabad. Each city will receive ₹100 crore to develop traffic systems, green zones, schools, and healthcare under the extended Smart City Mission.