Lucknow: UP govt has intensified efforts to modernise the prison system and reduce overcrowding by expanding existing facilities and constructing new jails.
At present, Uttar Pradesh has 77 operational prisons, including seven central prisons, two women’s central prisons, 64 district prisons, one special prison, two sub-jails and one juvenile home. The total inmate capacity in the state has risen from 58,400 in 2017, when 70 prisons were operational, to 77,673 in 2026, according to official figures. Officials said district jails in Amethi and Mahoba are nearing completion, with over 98% and 93% of work completed, respectively. These six under-construction jails will collectively accommodate 6,156 inmates, and govt aims to complete most of them by 2026.
Officials said overcrowding adversely affects prison security, healthcare, sanitation and rehabilitation programmes. Construction work is also progressing on several jail projects across the state. Construction is also underway in Hathras, Kushinagar, Jaunpur and Hapur. Govt’s strategy focuses on new jail construction, expansion of existing prisons, creation of additional barracks and deployment of modern security infrastructure to ensure inmates receive accommodation as per prescribed standards while improving prison management and reformative services.
Government Initiatives to Address Prison Overcrowding
Officials have reported that overcrowding in prisons is negatively impacting security, healthcare, sanitation, and rehabilitation programs. In response, the government is implementing a multifaceted strategy aimed at alleviating these issues. This strategy includes the construction of new jails, the expansion of existing facilities, and the creation of additional barracks. Furthermore, the government plans to deploy modern security infrastructure to ensure that inmates are housed according to established standards. These measures are designed to enhance overall prison management and improve reformative services for inmates.