Jun 03, 2024
URBAN DEVELOPMENT:AMRUT SCHEME SIMPLIFIER
What is the AMRUT Scheme?
- Purpose: The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) aims to address challenges in water supply, mobility, and pollution with financial assistance from the Centre, States, and cities.
- Goals:
- Ensure every household has access to a tap with assured water supply and sewerage connection.
- Develop greenery and well-maintained open spaces such as parks.
- Reduce pollution by promoting public and non-motorized transport.
Funding:
- AMRUT 1.0: Total outlay of ₹50,000 crore for five years from FY 2015-16 to FY 2019-20.
- AMRUT 2.0: Total outlay of ₹2,99,000 crore, with ₹76,760 crore from the Centre for five years.
Progress So Far:
- As of May 19, 2024, ₹83,357 crore has been dispersed.
- Achievements include:
- 58,66,237 tap connections.
- 37,49,467 sewerage connections.
- Development of 2,411 parks.
- Replacement of 62,78,571 LED lights.
Reality Check:
- Despite progress, issues like inadequate water, sanitation, and hygiene persist, causing significant health risks.
- Major cities are facing severe water shortages and poor air quality.
- 31% of urban households lack piped water; 67.3% are not connected to a sewerage system.
- Average water supply per person is far below the required amount.
Shortcomings:
- Project-Oriented Approach: Lacked a holistic, integrated approach to urban development.
- Lack of Local Participation: Minimal involvement of city governments and people’s representatives.
- Top-Down Governance: Dominated by bureaucrats, private consultants, and large technology companies.
- Inadequate Design: Poorly designed sewage treatment plants and infrastructure.
- Real Estate Focus: Urban planning often driven by real estate development rather than sustainable practices.
Recommendations:
1. Holistic Urban Planning:
- Integrate water management with climate and rainfall patterns.
- Use nature-based solutions for sustainable urban development.
- Involve local governments and representatives in planning and implementation.
- Ensure community participation to reflect local needs and priorities.
3. Comprehensive Methodology:
- Adopt a people-centric approach for urban development.
- Address environmental concerns and promote green infrastructure.
4. Strengthen Governance:
- Revise governance structures to include elected officials and local stakeholders.
- Enhance transparency and accountability in project execution.
5. Sustainable Practices:
- Protect and restore water bodies and natural resources.
- Develop effective stormwater management systems.
By addressing these shortcomings and implementing these recommendations, India can improve its urban infrastructure and ensure sustainable, inclusive development for its growing urban population.
SRIRAM’s
