PRAYAGRAJ, Sept. 15 -- The tender process has been initiated for the development of a 352-acre integrated manufacturing and logistics cluster (IMLC) in Prayagraj, aimed at accelerating industrial growth and generating employment opportunities. This initiative is part of the Uttar Pradesh government's broader vision to transform expressway corridors into integrated industrial hubs, officials said. Located in the Naini area of Prayagraj, the cluster will span 352 acres, covering parts of Saraswati Hi-Tech City and BPL land. According to Santosh Kumar, regional manager of the UP state industrial development authority (UPSIDA), which is overseeing the project, the estimated cost is Rs.658 crore, with an investment potential of over Rs.1,600 crore-signaling significant economic opportunities for the region. With its strategic location and growing connectivity by road, rail and air, Prayagraj is poised to become a major industrial destination. The IMLC will offer plug-and-play infrastructure for manufacturing units, including 24/7 availability of power, water, gas pipelines, sewer systems and ready-to-use factory sheds, Kumar said. The project will also feature a robust logistics ecosystem comprising large warehouses, cold storage facilities and container depots-expected to significantly reduce supply chain costs and improve operational efficiency. Over 17,700 jobs are projected to be created, generating both direct and indirect employment for local youth, he added. Notably, the Prayagraj cluster is part of a larger initiative involving 27 clusters across 26 districts in UP. These clusters are being strategically located along major expressways and industrial corridors to serve as the backbone of the state's economic development. With Prayagraj included in this forward-looking initiative, officials said the Sangam City is on track to become a preferred destination for industries, MSMEs, and start-ups-offering a business-friendly environment with seamless infrastructure and strong government support....