Gujarat Government Unveils Major Push for People-centric Urban Development

The government has announced a strategic investment centered on ecologically friendly infrastructure and people-centric public services, in line with the forthcoming "Urban Development Year 2025." In order to assist them in developing vital civic assets including roads, sanitary systems, public lighting, and community institutions, the funding is mostly allocated to recently formed municipal corporations.

A sizeable amount of the budget, Rs. 5.85 billion, has been set up for eight cities that recently became municipal corporations. Gujarat's next stage of smart urbanization is anticipated to be driven by these cities, which are becoming as important urban centers. The initiatives were mentioned by officials.

The development plan fosters resilient and livable urban ecosystems by combining modern civic amenities and municipal beautification with robust physical infrastructure. In keeping with a holistic approach to urban development, the design also incorporates libraries, healthcare facilities, early childhood care facilities, and educational institutions.

The government has also made the decision to support clean energy-based public transportation in order to meet the increasing difficulties in urban mobility. For the years 2025–2027, Rs. 390 million has been set aside year to run CNG-powered buses as part of a state-operated bus service program. It is anticipated that this action will lessen the need for private automobiles and cut carbon emissions in the growing metropolitan areas.

Along with these cities, a flagship urban redevelopment initiative has provided funding to the state's principal urban development authorities.

One such authority has received Rs. 3.75 billion to build a multipurpose sports center and a contemporary sewage treatment plant—projects that aim to combine practicality with enhancements to people's quality of life. To further advance climate-responsive urban design, another development body has obtained Rs. 970.81 billion to install energy-efficient LED lighting and modernize road infrastructure.