The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) unveiled its ambitious draft budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, totaling a substantial Rs 10,593 crore. Municipal Commissioner M Nagrajan presented this financial blueprint on Tuesday, emphasizing a strategic focus on capital expenditure without imposing any additional tax burden on residents.
Budget Highlights and Financial Strategy
In a significant move, the budget proposes no increase in taxes or charges, yet it allocates a robust Rs 5,073 crore for capital expenditure. This marks a notable rise of Rs 1,416 crore compared to the previous year's allocation of Rs 3,657 crore. Commissioner Nagrajan highlighted this achievement, stating, "A key highlight was that we did not increase taxes, yet we are targeting Rs 5,073 crore in capital expenditure, much higher than last year. We are in a position to undertake development projects."
Furthermore, the budget is projected to generate a revenue surplus of Rs 257 crore, reinforcing the city's financial health. Nagrajan added, "It is a Rs 257 crore revenue surplus budget. The projects planned are a step further towards making Surat a world-class city." This surplus is expected to fuel various developmental initiatives aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and livability.
Major Infrastructure Projects in Focus
The budget outlines several key projects that are set to transform Surat's landscape. Among these are:
- The comprehensive riverfront development along the Tapi River
- The Rundh Bhatha barrage project
- River embankment enhancements
- The Dumas seaface development
- SMC's new administrative building
Riverfront Development: A Two-Phase Approach
The riverfront project is structured into two phases. Phase 1 involves the construction of embankments along both banks of the Tapi River, stretching 33 kilometers from the Rundh-Bhatha barrage to the Kathor Bridge. Additionally, amenities will be developed along an approximately 10-kilometer stretch from the barrage to the Singanpore Weir.
Phase 2 will focus on developing amenities along a 23-kilometer stretch from the weir-cum-causeway to the Kathor Bridge. On the left bank of the Tapi, specific works include riverfront development along 4,800 meters and stormwater drain interceptor works covering about 5,826 meters from the barrage to Sardar Bridge.
Progress on the Rundh-Bhatha Barrage
Significant strides have been made in the Rundh-Bhatha barrage project. Clearances have been obtained from various departments, and the coffer dam design has received approval from the Central Water Commission (CWC). Work is slated to commence shortly, with the barrage design proof-checking by CWC currently in progress. As part of this package, ongoing work near Rahulraj Mall is advancing, with Rs 150 crore allocated for expenditure in the current financial year 2025-26.
Dumas Seaface Project: Zone-Wise Development
The Dumas seaface project is progressing in distinct zones. Zone 1, covering 10.32 hectares, is seeing infrastructure development at a cost of Rs 174 crore, with 82% of the work already completed. In Zone 2, spanning 2.54 hectares, infrastructure is being developed with an investment of Rs 83.44 crore, and 45% of the work has been finished.
This budget reflects Surat's commitment to sustainable urban growth, leveraging financial prudence to fund transformative projects that aim to elevate the city's status on the global stage.
