Maharashtra Pledges Infrastructure Funds For Pune And 3000 Crore For Kumbh Mela
On Tuesday, the Maharashtra government assured the Legislative Assembly that it would positively consider demands and suggestions regarding urban development projects, infrastructure funds, and pending approvals, with a particular focus on Pune.
Minister of State for Urban Development Madhuri Misal made the announcement while replying to a discussion on Supplementary Demands in the Assembly. She stated that the government remains committed to accelerating development works under several key urban schemes, including the Nagarotthan Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Misal informed the House that the supplementary demands include financial provisions for projects approved under the Pilgrimage Development Master Plan. As part of these plans, the state government has sought an allocation of nearly ₹3,000 crore specifically for preparations related to the upcoming Kumbh Mela. Additionally, the government has earmarked funds towards the state's share under the AMRUT Mission.
The supplementary budget also addresses sanitation and environmental infrastructure. Misal noted that adequate budgetary provisions have been made for sewage treatment plant (STP) projects in municipal councils. Furthermore, the state plans to release pending grants to urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions under the Swachh Maharashtra Mission.
Other key allocations within the supplementary demands are aimed at assisting municipal corporations, strengthening administrative infrastructure, and constructing hostels for working women. Funds have also been set aside for the implementation of the Urban Transport Phase-III project.
Beyond Pune, the state government has allocated funds to improve basic civic amenities and implement special development schemes in various municipal corporations across Maharashtra. This includes financial provisions for infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
Responding to concerns raised by legislators, Misal assured the House that the state would give positive consideration to pending development proposals, urban planning issues, and infrastructure projects. She reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring balanced urban growth through timely approvals, improved civic infrastructure, and sustained investment in housing, sanitation, public transport, and municipal services.
