In a significant push for urban infrastructure, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated a series of high-value development projects, including the new Navsari Bus Port, during his first visit to the town since its elevation to a municipal corporation.
Major Infrastructure Boost for Navsari
The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development works with a total value of Rs. 475 crore. The centerpiece of this development drive was the inauguration of the Navsari Bus Port, a state-of-the-art facility developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This bus port is the 13th such facility to become operational out of a planned 15 across the state, marking a key milestone in the government's infrastructure agenda.
Budget Surge Promises All-Round Development
Addressing a public gathering at Navsari's Town Hall, CM Patel highlighted the direct financial benefits of the town's upgraded status. He pointed out that when Navsari was a Nagar Palika, its annual budget was approximately Rs. 150 crore. Following its transition to a Municipal Corporation, the budget has seen a massive increase to around Rs. 850 crore annually.
"The entire area remains the same, but the budget has increased, which will bring more development in the corporation’s area. There will be all-round development," the Chief Minister assured the citizens.
Statewide Development Tour Concludes
Patel's visit to Navsari was part of a three-day tour across several districts. He revealed that during this tour, he had inaugurated development projects worth a staggering Rs. 2320 crores in districts including Rajkot, Kutch, Jamnagar, and finally, Navsari.
"In the last three days, such a huge amount of funds has been spent on development, which will lead to easier living for the citizens of Gujarat," Patel stated, emphasizing the state government's commitment to widespread progress.
The CM also assured the people of Navsari that the flow of funds from both the state and central governments would continue every year to sustain the development momentum.
Modern Amenities at the New Bus Port
Elaborating on the features of the new bus ports, CM Patel explained that the government's target was to upgrade 15 bus depots into full-fledged bus ports to provide an elegant travel experience for citizens. The newly inaugurated facilities, built under PPP, are not just transit points but integrated complexes.
They include modern amenities such as:
- Banquet halls
- Restaurants
- Multiplex cinema halls
- Shopping malls
This multi-utility approach is designed to ensure a better overall experience for the public.
Recognition for Navsari's Achievements
During his address, the Chief Minister praised the work of Navsari's BJP MP and Union Jal Shakti Minister, CR Paatil, for his exceptional performance in the "Catch the Rain project".
He also congratulated the residents of Navsari for the city's notable achievements in national surveys. Navsari secured the seventh position in the Western Zone for the mentioned program and received an award. Furthermore, the city was ranked among the top ten cities in Gujarat and was featured among 41 cities across the country in the prestigious Swachh Survekshan rankings.
