LUCKNOW, Jan. 28 -- Booking Kalyan Mandaps, community centres and sports facilities in Lucknow is set to become significantly costlier after the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) House approved a 40% hike in rent for all such properties. The revised rates will also apply to sports grounds and parks, directly affecting residents who use these venues for social, cultural and sporting events.

Corporators said the increase was aimed at generating additional revenue for the civic body and ensuring proper maintenance, renovations and improved facilities at these public spaces, many of which have long faced neglect.

In addition to revising rents, the LMC House cleared a series of financial and administrative proposals aimed at strengthening ...