The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0, launched on October 1, 2021, is a transformative initiative aimed at improving water security and self-sufficiency in urban areas across India. Set to run from 2021 to 2026, this mission seeks to achieve universal water supply coverage and enhance sewerage management in 500 cities. With a budget of ₹2,99,000 crore allocated for five years, AMRUT 2.0 is designed to improve infrastructure, increase green spaces, and restore water bodies, playing a crucial role in the long-term sustainability of India’s urban centers.
Project Overview and Key Objectives
- Universal Water Supply: The mission aims to provide universal water supply with functional taps to all households in all statutory towns across India.
- Sewerage and Septage Management: Coverage of sewerage and septage management is planned for the 500 cities that were part of the first phase of AMRUT.
- Duration: AMRUT 2.0 will be executed over a five-year period (2021-2026), ensuring lasting transformation in urban water management systems and infrastructure.
- Budget: A total budget of ₹2,99,000 crore has been allocated for the scheme, which will be distributed to both central and state governments.
Project Approval and Funding
- Approved Projects: The mission has approved 8,998 projects worth ₹1,89,458.55 crore to be executed across the country.
- Central Government Contribution: The central government has allocated ₹76,760 crore to support the mission.
- State and UT Contributions: States and Union Territories (UTs) receive funds to carry out local projects under the mission, in alignment with the scheme’s objectives.
State Water Action Plans (SWAP)
- Mandatory Submission: All states and UTs must submit their State Water Action Plans (SWAP) within two years of the launch of AMRUT 2.0.
- Approval Progress: As of now, ₹63,976.77 crore of the ₹66,750 crore central assistance has been approved. However, some states, like Arunachal Pradesh and Delhi, are yet to approve their plans for 90% of the allocated funds.
Project Status and Contracts
- Contracts Awarded: By November 15, 2024, contracts worth ₹85,114.01 crore have been awarded for 4,916 projects.
- Planning and Implementation: In addition, 1,198 projects are still in the planning phase, and many others are progressing through various stages of implementation. States are encouraged to expedite these processes to meet the targets set by the mission.
Financial Expenditure and Project Completion
- Funds Released: Of the ₹63,976.77 crore in central assistance, ₹11,756.13 crore has been released, with ₹6,539.45 crore spent so far.
- Total Expenditure: The total expenditure, including contributions from states, has reached ₹17,089 crore.
- Completed Projects: Projects worth ₹23,016.30 crore have been successfully completed, contributing significantly to urban rejuvenation efforts.
Sustainable Water Conservation and Infrastructure Development
AMRUT 2.0 also places a strong emphasis on sustainable water conservation products and initiatives. These efforts are critical in ensuring long-term water security for urban areas and addressing the growing concerns of water scarcity. The mission is designed to improve sewerage systems, restore water bodies, and increase green spaces, which will ultimately enhance the quality of life for urban residents.
Conclusion
AMRUT 2.0 stands as one of the most ambitious urban development schemes in India, targeting comprehensive improvements in water supply, sewerage management, and sustainable infrastructure. With universal water supply and sewerage management as core components, the scheme aims to build more self-sufficient and resilient cities. Through the timely execution of approved projects and the fast-tracking of pending plans, AMRUT 2.0 is set to make significant strides in urban transformation across the country.
As the mission progresses, it will not only improve water and sewage infrastructure but will also foster the growth of green spaces, contributing to the creation of cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable urban environments in India.
