Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Announces ₹453.72 Crore Boost for Urban Development

Gandhinagar : Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has allocated a substantial grant of ₹453.72 crores to promote urban welfare and improve the quality of life for its residents. This funding, earmarked for an array of development projects under the Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana, aims to advance the Ease of Living across numerous towns and cities within the state.

The Swarnim Jayanti Mukhyamantri Shaheri Vikas Yojana, a visionary initiative launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, marks a milestone in the state’s developmental journey. Celebrating the golden jubilee of Gujarat, this scheme was designed to catalyze holistic urban development, with a substantial initial provision of ₹7,000 crores for its first phase (2009-2014), escalating to ₹15,000 crores for the second phase (2012-2017). Reflecting on its success and ongoing necessity, the current Chief Minister, Shri Bhupendra Patel, has now extended the scheme until 2026-27, with a budget allocation of ₹8,634 crores for this year.

This latest injection of funds is set to benefit various municipalities across Gujarat, including Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation and towns like Borsad, Kadi, Chotila, and many others. These funds are earmarked for essential services and infrastructure development, such as water supply, underground sewerage, and urban mobility enhancements, along with the beautification of public spaces and the development of landmark projects.

A significant portion of the grant, ₹308.75 crore, has been specifically allocated for upgrading water supply and sewerage systems in the newly incorporated areas of the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation. Additionally, ₹118.53 crore will support sewerage projects across nine municipalities, highlighting the scheme’s emphasis on improving basic urban services.

The Chief Minister’s special grant of ₹8.74 crore for the Veraval-Patan joint municipality underscores the government’s commitment to developing regions with cultural and religious significance. This funding will facilitate infrastructure improvements, including road asphaltation, paver block installations, and landscaping enhancements around the Somnath temple, enriching the spiritual and aesthetic appeal of this sacred site.

Moreover, the scheme addresses the infrastructural needs of outgrowth areas, allocating ₹17.20 crores for the construction of roads, LED street lighting, and essential water management structures in several municipalities. This holistic approach ensures that development is not confined to city centers but extends to emerging urban fringes, fostering inclusive growth.