Rajkot Municipal Corporation Unveils Draft Budget with Focus on Completion of Pending Projects
The Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) on Wednesday presented its draft budget for the financial year 2026–27, amounting to Rs 3,595 crore. The budget emphasizes completing long-pending civic infrastructure projects rather than announcing major new initiatives, marking a strategic shift in municipal planning.
Proposed Tax Increases Face Political Hurdles
The draft budget proposes a tax increase of Rs 95 crore, primarily through higher door-to-door garbage collection charges and water tariffs. However, sources within the corporation indicate that the political wing is unlikely to approve these hikes. This reluctance stems from the upcoming civic body elections, as a similar proposal was rejected last year, highlighting the sensitivity of tax changes during election periods.
Under the proposed changes, the annual door-to-door garbage collection charge for residential properties would increase from Rs 365 to Rs 800, while non-residential properties could see a rise from Rs 1,460 to Rs 3,200. Similarly, water charges for residential properties are set to go up from Rs 1,500 per year to Rs 2,400, and for non-residential properties from Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,800, effective from the next financial year.
Progress on Waste Management and Infrastructure
Municipal commissioner Tushar Sumera highlighted significant achievements in waste management, noting that RMC has processed nearly 16 lakh tonnes of legacy waste over the past few years. The remaining 7.5 lakh tonnes are expected to be cleared soon, demonstrating ongoing efforts to improve urban cleanliness and environmental sustainability.
The draft budget also lists several long-term infrastructure projects that have been carried over from previous years. With a focus on sports infrastructure ahead of the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, RMC has completed an international-level sports complex with a capacity of 1,200 spectators in ward 12. Another sports complex is currently under construction in ward 17, showcasing the city's commitment to enhancing recreational facilities.
Public-Private Partnerships and New Initiatives
For the 2026–27 period, the civic body has proposed developing sports facilities in all three zones under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Under this arrangement, RMC will provide the land, while private partners will handle the design, development, management, and maintenance, aiming to leverage private sector efficiency for public benefit.
The budget also highlights progress on the lion safari park being developed near Pradhyuman Park Zoo. According to the proposal, most of the work—including the compound wall, fencing, internal roads, and entry gates—is completed. The lion safari is expected to begin operations in the next financial year, subject to regulatory approvals, adding a new attraction to the city's tourism offerings.
New Infrastructure Projects for Enhanced Safety
Proposed new infrastructure projects for FY 2026–27 include completing the work of seven new fire stations announced in the last budget. Additionally, a Turntable Ladder (TL) with a height of 50 metres will be procured to enhance firefighting capabilities, reflecting RMC's focus on improving public safety and emergency response systems.
Overall, the draft budget underscores RMC's balanced approach between fiscal prudence and developmental needs, with a clear emphasis on finishing existing projects while cautiously introducing new measures amid political considerations.
