Gujarat Enhances Urban Landscapes with Over Rs 253 Crore Initiative

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has approved Rs 253.94 crore for urban development under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana. Aiming to improve infrastructure and promote welfare across towns and cities, the project includes developments in drainage, roads, heritage, and tourism-focused structures.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel green-lighted a significant budget allocation of Rs 253.94 crore on Tuesday, aimed at sparking development projects across 14 towns and one metropolis. This move is aligned with the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana, a visionary project initially launched by then-Chief Minister Narendra Modi as part of Gujarat's golden jubilee celebrations in 2010. The plan, now extended till 2026-27, targets urban challenges arising from rapid industrialization and development, providing essential funds to local bodies for enhancing urban welfare and infrastructure.

A slice of this substantial budget, Rs 6 crore, is earmarked for Jasdan Municipality to create a riverfront along the Bhadar River. Furthermore, allocations include Rs 10.29 crore for a new town hall in Halol and Rs 8.64 crore for road and heritage wall projects in Viramgam. Notably, Junagadh Municipal Corporation has received Rs 40 crore for ambitious undertakings, including a sports complex and heritage restoration at the Narsinh Vidya Mandir. These funds target key city development dimensions such as heritage, tourism, and aesthetic enhancements to bolster urban identity and appeal.

Additional investments focus on critical infrastructure enhancements, with Rs 25.29 crore, Rs 25.52 crore, and Rs 26.69 crore directed to stormwater management and drainage projects in Pardi, Patan, and Veraval-Patan municipalities, respectively. Purveying further support, funds from the scheme cover water supply systems, sewer management, and essential services in slum areas. Moreover, developments include extensive road construction, street lighting, and water pipeline installations in various municipalities, emphasizing both aesthetic and functional urban upliftment.

(With inputs from agencies.)