Ahmedabad plans LRT and green mobility in Rs 14,001-cr budget
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has unveiled its largest-ever budget, proposing an extensive urban mobility and infrastructure revamp. With a staggering allocation of ₹14,001 crore, the civic body is prioritising public transport by commissioning a feasibility study for a Light Rail Transport (LRT) system. This comes amid increasing congestion despite the presence of AMTS, BRTS, and metro services. The LRT is envisioned to seamlessly connect major transport corridors, including SP Ring Road, SG Highway, and key city junctions such as Delhi Darwaja, Navrangpura, and Santej. As urban sprawl extends beyond traditional city limits, the AMC is also investing in new flyovers, road expansions, and transport hubs to improve connectivity. Notably, eight new flyovers, including those at IIMA and Nehrunagar, are on the cards, aiming to decongest critical traffic nodes. In a bid to future-proof its infrastructure, AMC is also directing substantial funds towards green energy initiatives, water conservation, and an enhanced sports ecosystem to support potential bids for international sporting events.
Ahmedabad’s rapid expansion has placed immense pressure on its existing transport infrastructure. While the metro and BRTS have improved connectivity, increasing vehicle density has led to worsening congestion. To address these concerns, the proposed LRT will operate across four major corridors: Delhi Darwaja to Jaspur (20.5 km), Riverfront West to Shantipura (18 km), Navrangpura to Supercity Circle (14 km), and Civil Hospital to Narol Circle (22 km). This system is expected to complement existing modes of transport, reducing dependency on private vehicles. In addition to the LRT, AMC has allocated funds for constructing five new flyovers and enhancing road infrastructure with an investment of ₹1,200 crore. With the city aspiring to host the 2036 Olympics, significant focus has been placed on sports infrastructure, including the development of open sports complexes, athletic tracks, and 15 new playgrounds. This marks a strategic shift towards holistic urban development, combining mobility with civic and recreational enhancements.
Sustainability remains a cornerstone of AMC’s budget, aligning with India’s broader commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The municipal body has proposed the replacement of diesel-powered BRTS buses with 300 electric buses, alongside adding 120 new AC electric buses to the AMTS fleet. A multi-modal transport hub at RTO is also planned to integrate AMTS, BRTS, and metro services for seamless commuter movement. In a significant push for renewable energy, AMC is set to establish a 12.5 MW wind power plant at a cost of ₹112.50 crore and a 12.5 MW solar power plant worth ₹68.75 crore. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to reduce the city’s carbon footprint while ensuring sustainable urban growth. Furthermore, AMC is spearheading an afforestation drive, pledging to plant three million trees, develop 22 new gardens, and renovate 28 existing ones. This extensive green cover expansion is aimed at mitigating Ahmedabad’s rising urban heat index and improving air quality.
From a civic and urban governance perspective, AMC’s budget signifies a transformative shift in Ahmedabad’s growth trajectory. While the proposed projects promise improved urban mobility and sustainability, their successful execution will require meticulous planning, timely execution, and collaboration between government agencies and private stakeholders. The establishment of a Water Resources Management Planning Cell, Road Planning Cell, and City Tourism Management Cell underscores AMC’s intent to implement targeted, data-driven solutions for civic issues. However, urban planners argue that infrastructure expansion must be accompanied by stringent urban planning guidelines to prevent unplanned development. As Ahmedabad continues its rapid urbanisation, this budget presents a crucial opportunity to redefine the city’s transport network, environmental footprint, and livability standards, ensuring a balanced approach to progress and sustainability.
