Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation Unveils Budget with Major Focus on Water and Sewerage Infrastructure
The Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has presented its budget proposal for the 2026-27 financial year, placing a special emphasis on the augmentation of drinking water supply and the modernization of drainage and sewerage systems. This strategic move aims to address long-standing civic issues in the region, with substantial allocations supported by government schemes.
Drinking Water Supply Enhancements Under AMRUT 2.0
In her budget speech, BMC Mayor Krishna Chakraborty highlighted the civic body's commitment to meeting the growing demand for drinking water. The authorities have secured approval for Rs 379.4 crore in funds under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme during its first phase, specifically for purified drinking water projects. This initiative is already showing progress across various wards.
Ongoing work includes connecting purified drinking water to every household in wards 22 to 26, which cover Kestopur and adjoining areas, as well as in wards 38 and 39, with these projects nearing completion. Additionally, the drinking water supply project in wards 28, 35, and 36, adjacent to Salt Lake, is underway, with approximately one-third of the target already implemented.
New infrastructure construction for the purified drinking water supply system in wards 1 to 21, encompassing Rajarhat Gopalpur, has just commenced. Simultaneously, the renovation of 15 overhead reservoirs in Salt Lake is close to completion. The BMC anticipates implementing work worth Rs 95 crore this year under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme to further augment drinking water supply. Beyond this, a proposed budgetary allocation of Rs 108 crore is earmarked for the overall improvement of water supply services across all 41 wards.
Modernization of Drainage and Sewerage Systems
To address drainage and sewerage challenges, the civic authorities have proposed a budget allocation of Rs 25.5 crore. Plans are in place to modernize sewerage pumping stations with state support, enhancing efficiency and reliability. Significant progress has already been made with the construction of four drop pumping stations in areas adjacent to the Eastern drainage canal, facilitating quick discharge of accumulated water in Salt Lake and Rajarhat regions.
Future initiatives include building two additional drop pumping stations in the Salt Lake area and establishing new drainage lines in Rajarhat, where planned drainage and sewerage systems are currently lacking. These efforts aim to prevent waterlogging and improve sanitation.
Waste Management and Pollution Control Initiatives
In a bid to tackle environmental concerns, the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department has approved a Rs 46.7 crore scheme for the collection and management of household liquid waste. This project also involves establishing a new sewerage treatment plant to control pollution in the Bagjola canal, contributing to cleaner waterways and better public health.
Overall, the BMC's budget for 2026-27 reflects a comprehensive approach to urban development, leveraging government assistance to upgrade critical infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents in Bidhannagar.
