Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Appoints UNM Foundation for SG Road Service Lane Project
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) standing committee has taken a significant step in urban infrastructure development by appointing the UNM Foundation to plan and design the service lanes flanking SG Road. This appointment, made on Wednesday, is part of the state government's broader project to develop the road's length from Sanathal Circle to Gandhinagar, specifically up to the J-7 Circle.
Zero-Cost Initiative for Urban Beautification
In a notable move, the UNM Foundation will handle all planning and design tasks at zero cost to the municipal corporation. Standing committee chairman Devang Dani emphasized this point, stating that the foundation will cover all consultancy fees entirely. This arrangement ensures that the project proceeds without financial burden on public funds, allowing resources to be allocated elsewhere.
Devang Dani explained, "The UNM Foundation was appointed for the planning and design work related to the development of SG Road from Sanathal Circle to Gandhinagar (J-7 Circle). This road passes through multiple jurisdictions, including AMC, Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation, Guda, and Auda areas."
Comprehensive Development Strategy
The project involves a detailed approach to enhance the road's infrastructure. Initially, a preliminary survey for planning and designing the service roads on both sides of SG Road within AMC jurisdiction was assigned to Parekh Associates. However, recognizing the need for specialized expertise, the standing committee decided to bring in the UNM Foundation.
Dani added, "Subject expertise is required for the development of the entire road. To address this, the UNM Foundation will appoint consultants with experience in landscaping, garden development, and beautification, as well as survey agencies. All these services will be provided at zero cost, meaning the foundation will completely cover the consultancy fees."
State Government's Role and Future Implications
This initiative is supported by the state government, which formed the Gujarat Urban Infrastructure Development Company to oversee such projects. The development of SG Road is expected to improve traffic flow, enhance aesthetic appeal, and boost local connectivity. Key aspects of the project include:
- Designing service lanes to ease congestion and improve safety.
- Incorporating landscaping and beautification elements to create a visually appealing corridor.
- Leveraging expert consultants for sustainable urban planning.
The appointment of the UNM Foundation marks a collaborative effort between public and private entities, aiming to deliver high-quality infrastructure without incurring costs for the municipality. This model could set a precedent for future urban development projects in Ahmedabad and beyond, promoting efficiency and innovation in public works.
