The holy city of Amritsar is poised for a significant transformation in the upcoming financial year. The Municipal Corporation Amritsar (MCA) has laid out an ambitious blueprint for 2024-25, focusing on long-awaited civic upgrades and new infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life for its residents.
A Budget Focused on Core Civic Issues
For the new fiscal year, the civic body has received a substantial allocation of Rs 1,683 crore. A major portion of this budget is dedicated to tackling persistent urban challenges. A key highlight is the allocation of Rs 365 crore specifically for the maintenance and repair of roads across the city. This move addresses one of the most common grievances among Amritsar's citizens.
Furthermore, the plan includes a critical project to rejuvenate the city's sewerage system. An amount of Rs 412 crore has been earmarked for this purpose, targeting the modernization of aging infrastructure to prevent waterlogging and improve sanitation.
Smart City Initiatives and Pending Promises
Under the Smart City Mission, several projects are finally seeing the light of day. The iconic Hall Bazaar is set to undergo a complete redesign, transforming it into a modern, pedestrian-friendly zone. Similarly, the development of the Heritage Street near the Golden Temple is progressing, aiming to enhance the experience for pilgrims and tourists.
However, the journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Several projects announced in previous years, such as the installation of individual water meters and the complete overhaul of the solid waste management system, have faced delays. Municipal Commissioner Dr. Sandeep Rishi acknowledged these challenges but emphasized a renewed focus on execution. "Our priority is to ensure that the sanctioned projects move from paper to ground with tangible results for the public," he stated.
Public Transport and Green Spaces Get a Boost
Enhancing mobility remains a central theme. The plan includes the introduction of new city bus services on underserved routes and the development of dedicated cycling tracks to promote non-motorized transport. Additionally, the development and maintenance of parks and green belts have been allocated funds, aiming to increase the city's lung space and provide recreational areas for families.
Local councilors and residents have expressed cautious optimism. While welcoming the new proposals, they urge the authorities to ensure timely completion and avoid the cost overruns that have plagued some past initiatives. The success of this annual plan will ultimately be measured by its on-ground implementation and the visible improvement in Amritsar's civic amenities.
As the financial year begins, all eyes are on the Municipal Corporation to translate these plans and promises into a smoother road ahead for the historic city.
