Opposition Leader Proposes Major Amendments to Ahmedabad's Civic Budget
In a significant move, Shehzad Khan Pathan, the opposition leader in the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), proposed amendments worth Rs 652 crore to the civic body's Rs 18,518 crore budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. The announcement was made on Friday, highlighting a series of recommendations aimed at addressing public concerns and improving urban infrastructure.
Key Recommendations for Civic Reforms
Among the prominent suggestions put forward by Pathan is the removal of the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) corridor from congested areas of the city. This proposal seeks to alleviate traffic issues and enhance mobility for residents. Additionally, Pathan advocated for the appointment of a Lokpal to curb corruption within the AMC, emphasizing the need for greater transparency and accountability in municipal governance.
Budget Allocations for Public Services
The proposed amendments include substantial increases in funding for essential public services. Pathan recommended adding Rs 200 crore to the budget of VS Hospital to improve healthcare facilities, Rs 69 crore to the school board to bolster educational infrastructure, and Rs 1 crore to the MJ Library to support cultural and educational resources. These allocations are intended to address gaps in public welfare and ensure better access to services for citizens.
Criticism of Current Budget Priorities
Pathan criticized the AMC's current budget, stating, "AMC's budget focuses on Commonwealth Games but neglects the concerns of common people. The city does not receive adequate supply of drinking water at sufficient pressure. Millions are spent on roadworks, yet citizens do not get roads of good quality. Hence, suggestions for works worth Rs 652 crore were proposed." This critique underscores a perceived misalignment between municipal spending and the everyday needs of Ahmedabad's residents.
Comprehensive Infrastructure and Social Initiatives
Beyond the immediate amendments, Pathan outlined a broader vision for civic development. His recommendations include:
- Ensuring a 24-hour water supply at sufficient pressure across the city.
- Covering 100% of the city with a stormwater and drainage network to prevent flooding.
- Creating a Miracle Garden on the Sabarmati Riverfront to enhance recreational spaces.
- Building a multi-storeyed modern school and a high-tech library on the riverfront to promote education.
- Allocating a separate budget to reduce water pollution and protect environmental health.
- Developing religious sites and activating all closed French wells in the Sabarmati River for water conservation.
- Constructing amphitheatres in each zone to foster community engagement and cultural activities.
Social Welfare and Economic Measures
Pathan also emphasized social justice and economic relief in his proposals. He suggested that before demolishing slums, alternative arrangements should be provided for displaced residents to ensure their well-being. Additionally, he called for the establishment of an event management cell to streamline municipal activities. On the economic front, Pathan proposed property tax relief for women entrepreneurs and a reduction in interest rates on outstanding property tax from 18% to 7%, aiming to ease financial burdens on citizens and support local businesses.
These comprehensive amendments reflect a push for more inclusive and effective governance in Ahmedabad, focusing on infrastructure, public services, and social equity. The proposals are set to be discussed further in municipal forums, potentially shaping the city's development trajectory in the coming years.
