Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Approves New Attractions and Renewable Energy Projects
In a significant development aimed at enhancing public amenities and promoting sustainability, the standing committee of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has given its approval for several key initiatives. During a meeting held on Thursday, the committee cleared proposals to construct a candy museum and install a musical fountain at the popular Kankaria Lakefront, a major tourist and recreational spot in the city.
Boosting Tourism with New Attractions
The approval for the candy museum and musical fountain is part of AMC's broader strategy to revitalize and diversify attractions at Kankaria Lakefront. Standing committee chairman Devang Dani emphasized the importance of these additions, stating that they will provide enhanced entertainment options for visitors, especially ahead of the upcoming summer season. In line with this, Dani has issued directives to activate all fountains at public places across Ahmedabad to ensure a vibrant and welcoming environment during the hotter months.
Furthermore, to address public convenience, officials have been instructed to ensure the availability of drinking water on all public transport buses throughout the summer. This move aims to improve comfort and safety for commuters as temperatures rise.
Major Push for Renewable Energy
Alongside the tourism-focused projects, the standing committee also approved critical steps toward advancing Ahmedabad's renewable energy goals. The committee gave its nod for the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR) for a 125MW renewable energy group captive project. This ambitious initiative will include the installation of floating solar panels, leveraging innovative technology to harness solar power efficiently.
Additionally, the committee approved the appointment of a consultant for the floating solar project, ensuring expert guidance and smooth implementation. These decisions are integral to AMC's comprehensive Net Zero Project, which aims to transition the city to 100% renewable energy supply by the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
Current Renewable Energy Status and Future Plans
Currently, 43% of AMC's total energy consumption is sourced from renewable energy, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainability. To achieve its 100% target, AMC is implementing two key renewable energy ventures: a 20MW wind energy plant and a 30MW solar energy plant, with a combined capacity of 50MW. While the 30MW solar project has already received approval, the 20MW wind energy project is in the process of securing necessary clearances.
The push for renewable energy is driven by significant economic and operational factors. AMC's annual electricity bill exceeds Rs 350 crore, with a substantial 68% of power consumed by water supply operations, from sourcing raw water to delivering drinking water to households. Another 16% is used for sewage treatment plants, 12% for street lighting, and the remaining 4% for other civic services. By shifting to renewable sources, AMC aims to reduce costs and environmental impact while ensuring reliable energy for essential services.
Broader Implications and Community Impact
The approvals for both the candy museum and renewable energy projects underscore AMC's dual focus on enhancing quality of life and fostering sustainable development. The candy museum is expected to attract more visitors to Kankaria Lakefront, boosting local tourism and economy. Meanwhile, the renewable energy initiatives align with global trends toward green energy, positioning Ahmedabad as a leader in urban sustainability efforts in India.
As these projects move forward, they are set to contribute significantly to the city's infrastructure and environmental goals, making Ahmedabad a more attractive and eco-friendly destination for residents and tourists alike.
