In a significant policy reversal, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has decided to sell the saplings used in the city's recent flower show, contradicting its earlier announcement that these plants would not be available for purchase. This move comes as the civic body seeks to mitigate substantial financial losses incurred during the event.
Reversal of Earlier Stance on Sapling Sales
Initially, the standing committee had declared that the plants showcased at the Ahmedabad International Flower Show would not be sold to the public. However, officials from the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Ltd announced on Monday that this decision has been overturned. The saplings will now be available for purchase at four AMC-operated nurseries across the city.
Designated Nurseries and Pricing Details
The plants can be acquired from the following municipal nurseries:
- Rasala Nursery located at Law Garden
- Saurabh Nursery situated in Navrangpura
- Vishwakarma Nursery based in Chandkheda
- Science City Nursery found in Sola
Pricing for the saplings ranges from an affordable Rs 10 to Rs 235 per plant, with the AMC offering attractive discounts for bulk purchases. This pricing strategy aims to encourage both individual gardening enthusiasts and larger-scale buyers to participate in the sale.
Addressing Financial Deficits from the Flower Show
The decision to sell the plants stems from the substantial financial shortfall experienced during the Ahmedabad International Flower Show. The event recorded a significant deficit of Rs 5.33 crore, primarily attributed to two key factors:
- Lower than Expected Footfall: The show attracted fewer visitors than anticipated, limiting revenue from ticket sales.
- High Ticket Pricing: The elevated entry fees further discouraged public participation, exacerbating the attendance issue.
By selling the saplings, the AMC hopes to recover a portion of these losses and optimize the resources invested in the floral exhibition. This approach represents a practical solution to repurpose the plants while generating much-needed revenue for the municipal corporation.
Strategic Implications and Public Response
This reversal demonstrates the AMC's adaptive approach to municipal event management and financial recovery. While the initial decision to withhold plant sales may have been based on logistical or preservation concerns, the substantial deficit has prompted a more pragmatic response. The availability of these plants at multiple locations across Ahmedabad ensures convenient access for residents interested in acquiring quality saplings while supporting municipal initiatives.
The move also highlights the challenges faced by civic bodies in balancing cultural events with fiscal responsibility, particularly when unexpected circumstances like reduced attendance impact projected revenues.
