Senior Uttar Pradesh Cadre Officer Takes Charge Following Administrative Shake-Up
The Uttar Pradesh government has appointed IAS officer Krishna Karunesh, a 2011-batch officer of the UP cadre, as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Noida Authority. His appointment comes at a crucial juncture, replacing IAS Lokesh M., a 2005-batch officer, who was relieved of his duties and placed on the waiting list on January 19, 2026.
This administrative reshuffle follows the tragic death of 27-year-old software engineer Yuvraj Mehta in Noida’s Sector 150 on January 16, 2026. Mehta’s car plunged into a water-filled pit dug for a basement construction, sparking widespread outrage, protests, and allegations of negligence against both developers and the Authority. The incident has since been under the scrutiny of a Special Investigation Team (SIT), which continues to probe the role of builders and officials in the matter.
Background: Techie’s Death Triggers Accountability Debate
The fatal accident involving Yuvraj Mehta intensified public anger and raised serious questions about urban planning, construction safety, and administrative oversight in Noida. The SIT has been actively interrogating developers and officials to establish accountability. With mounting pressure from civil society and political circles, the government decided to remove Lokesh M. from his post, paving the way for Karunesh’s elevation.
Profile: Who is IAS Krishna Karunesh?
Born in Patna, Bihar, Krishna Karunesh is known for his sharp administrative skills and people-centric governance. He holds a B.A. (Honours) in Geography and an LL.B. from Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh, along with a Master’s in Public Policy from IGNOU, New Delhi.
His career reflects a blend of urban development expertise and district-level administrative leadership. Karunesh has consistently been praised for his efficiency, transparency, and strict adherence to law and order.
Key Postings and Administrative Experience
CEO, Noida Authority (January 2026 – Present): Appointed in the wake of the Sector 150 tragedy and subsequent reshuffle.
Additional CEO, Noida Authority (July 2025 – January 2026): Oversaw project management and operational functions.
District Magistrate, Gorakhpur (June 2022 – July 2025): Earned recognition for infrastructure development and effective law and order management.
Vice Chairman, Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA): Directed urban planning and development initiatives in NCR.
District Magistrate, Balrampur, Hapur, and Hazaribagh: Managed district administration and welfare programs.
SDM & Chief Development Officer, Ghaziabad: Early roles focusing on rural and urban development.
Reputation and Governance Style
Karunesh is widely regarded as a dynamic and efficient officer with a reputation for transparent governance. His tenure in Gorakhpur was particularly noted for balancing infrastructure expansion with public service delivery. Colleagues describe him as a professional who combines administrative discipline with sensitivity to public concerns.
SIT Investigation: Current Status
The SIT continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Yuvraj Mehta’s death. Developers linked to the Sector 150 project have already faced action, with three builders booked in connection with the case. The final SIT report is expected to outline responsibility and recommend further administrative and legal measures.
Karunesh’s appointment as CEO places him at the center of this sensitive probe, with expectations that his leadership will restore public confidence in the Authority’s functioning.
