Mumbai’s urban development machinery has come under scrutiny after concerns were raised over delays in implementing central government-funded projects under AMRUT 2.0, a flagship mission aimed at rejuvenating Indian cities. Senior state officials have warned that Maharashtra must expedite utilisation of its allocated funds to ensure that crucial civic projects are completed before the March 2026 deadline.
The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT 2.0), launched in 2021, has earmarked nearly ₹9,000 crore for Maharashtra to strengthen its civic infrastructure. The scheme focuses on water supply, sanitation, green spaces and lake revival—sectors directly linked to improving urban liveability and advancing sustainability targets. Yet, progress across several municipalities remains sluggish, with projects either awaiting administrative approval or lagging in execution.
Officials at a recent high-level review meeting underlined that the pace of work was inadequate, urging departments to demonstrate urgency in converting sanctioned projects into ground-level outcomes. They stressed that every rupee released by the Centre must be fully utilised, as delays not only risk the state missing its completion deadline but also compromise the quality of urban services for millions of citizens.
Policy experts note that AMRUT 2.0 is more than just a funding window; it is an opportunity to address systemic challenges that have long plagued Indian cities. Water supply continuity, modern sanitation, and rejuvenated public parks are integral to building eco-friendly, resilient and equitable cities. For Mumbai and other urban centres, accelerating these works could significantly ease pressures of rapid urbanisation while cutting environmental costs associated with unplanned growth.
Green mobility advocates argue that strengthening civic infrastructure directly complements sustainable transport goals. For instance, lake revival and green parks enhance air quality and support pedestrian-friendly environments, while efficient water and sanitation systems reduce public health risks that often burden city transport networks during monsoons. By meeting the AMRUT deadlines, Maharashtra could set an example of integrated planning where environment, mobility and liveability converge. A senior official present at the review stressed that the concerns were not aimed at political leadership but at administrative officers who lacked urgency in executing schemes. The official remarked that public-facing projects cannot afford prolonged delays, particularly when they have direct implications for citizens’ quality of life.
The review also extended to parallel programmes in women’s development and health infrastructure, where timely approvals were emphasised as a key to avoiding cascading delays. Experts say that the lesson is clear—urban resilience in India hinges on speed, accountability and long-term planning. As Maharashtra races towards the 2026 deadline, the urgency to deliver on AMRUT 2.0 is not only about compliance but about ensuring that Mumbai and its sister cities evolve into greener, healthier and more equitable spaces for the future.
