Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has revealed a substantial increase in its budget for the 2024-25 financial year. The provisional expenditure has reached a remarkable Rs 11,681.77 crore, marking a 15% surge compared to the previous financial year when spending exceeded Rs 10,000 crore.
This upward trajectory in expenditure underscores AMC’s commitment to addressing the city’s increasing needs for both development and revenue-focused initiatives.
A closer look at the budget details highlights a significant rise in expenditure, with Rs 5,516.66 crore spent by March 31, 2024, reflecting a 21% increase over the Rs 4,560.38 crore expended in the preceding year. The largest share of this increase has been channelled towards essential infrastructure projects that are pivotal to the city’s expansion and future sustainability. The allocation for water-related projects, for instance, stands at Rs 544.94 crore, while Rs 1,389.38 crore has been earmarked for drainage infrastructure. Additionally, Rs 268.30 crore has been set aside for the crucial development of the Kharicut canal, which is expected to provide a significant boost to the city’s water management systems.
Among other key investments, the AMC has placed considerable emphasis on sewage treatment and waste management. The Gujarat Resilient Cities Project (GRCP), an initiative designed to enhance the city’s ability to manage its environmental challenges, will see investments of Rs 147.17 crore in sewage treatment plants (STP). The construction of new plants, including a 375 MLD facility in Vasna and a 425 MLD unit in Pirana, represents a forward-looking approach to waste water treatment. Furthermore, Rs 182.53 crore has been earmarked for bio-mining projects in Pirana, with additional allocations for other essential plant developments.
Road and bridge infrastructure has also received a significant financial boost, with Rs 1,095.58 crore being allocated for road-related projects, including iconic roads and white-topping efforts aimed at reducing heat absorption and improving road quality. In line with the city’s growing urbanisation, Rs 246 crore has been set aside for the construction of new bridges, ensuring smoother connectivity across the city. This comprehensive approach to infrastructure, focused on sustainability and urban resilience, reflects AMC’s intent to position Ahmedabad as a modern, forward-thinking metropolis.
One of the more notable investments is in the Amrut scheme, which has seen Rs 849.29 crore allocated to water and drainage improvements. This initiative is aligned with the government’s broader vision to create more sustainable and liveable urban spaces across India.
The move signifies a clear strategy to address both the immediate needs of the city and its long-term sustainability goals. With these investments, AMC aims to future-proof Ahmedabad against the rapidly changing urban environment, ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can withstand the test of time. These developments come at a time when urban centres like Ahmedabad are facing an increased demand for resilient infrastructure, particularly in light of rapid population growth, climate change, and environmental challenges. As such, the increased expenditure is not just a reflection of the city’s immediate priorities but a strategic investment in its future.
With a combination of targeted spending on essential projects and a clear commitment to sustainable growth, the 2024-25 budget marks a decisive step towards building a robust, future-ready Ahmedabad. However, as the city continues to evolve, it will be critical to ensure that these investments are both economically viable and environmentally sustainable, creating a city that is equitable and resilient for all its residents.
