Govt Approves ₹1,203 Cr for Smart Urban Development Across Gujarat
#Gandhinagar
In a major push towards structured and inclusive urban transformation, the Gujarat government has given in-principle approval for development works worth ₹1,202.75 crore. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday, signaling the state’s strong commitment to sustainable, people-centric urban growth.
As part of this vision, the state has declared 2025 as the “Urban Development Year”, a thematic initiative to drive innovation in infrastructure, urban mobility, sanitation, public services, and beautification efforts across Gujarat’s urban landscape.
A significant portion of the sanctioned amount—₹585.53 crore—will be directed toward infrastructure development and beautification in eight newly created municipal corporations. These include Navsari, Nadiad, Anand, Surendranagar, Gandhidham, Vapi, Porbandar, and Mehsana. The objective is to bridge the development gap in these recently upgraded cities by strengthening both physical and social infrastructure.
These funds will support the construction and improvement of essential urban infrastructure such as roads, drainage systems, street lighting, and sanitation facilities. In addition, investments will also be made in social amenities, including anganwadis, school buildings, libraries, and urban health centers—key elements aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.
City-wise fund allocation includes ₹81 crore for Navsari, ₹75 crore for Nadiad, ₹78.07 crore for Anand, ₹81.04 crore for Surendranagar, ₹104.07 crore for Gandhidham, ₹78.63 crore for Vapi, ₹80.30 crore for Porbandar, and ₹7.42 crore for Mehsana.
Recognizing the growing demand for reliable and eco-friendly public transportation, the state has also allocated ₹39 crore annually from 2025 to 2027 under the Mukhyamantri Shaheri Bus Seva scheme. The funds will support the operation of CNG-powered buses in these eight cities, aiming to enhance last-mile connectivity while reducing urban pollution.
Beyond municipal corporations, two major urban development authorities—Vadodara Urban Development Authority (VUDA) and Surat Urban Development Authority (SUDA)—have received substantial allocations under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana.
VUDA has been sanctioned ₹375.38 crore, which includes ₹72.52 crore for the construction of a modern sports complex and ₹302.86 crore for a 60 MLD sewage treatment plant, accompanied by underground drainage systems across four town planning zones. These projects are expected to play a pivotal role in boosting environmental sustainability and quality of life in Vadodara’s expanding urban periphery.
SUDA, on the other hand, has received ₹97.81 crore for key infrastructure works such as resurfacing of old roads, construction of new roads, and the installation of energy-efficient LED street lighting systems. These upgrades are aimed at improving traffic flow and enhancing night-time safety in fast-growing urban areas of Surat.
This multi-pronged investment strategy is designed to accelerate Gujarat’s transition into a model of smart and inclusive urban development. By focusing on both basic infrastructure and citizen-centric facilities, the government aims to make urban centers more livable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable.
AM.
