Vadodara, March 6 (NationPress) - The Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, Harsh Sanghavi, inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a range of civic development projects totaling Rs 203 crore in Vadodara on Friday. These initiatives encompass improvements in water supply, roadways, and urban infrastructure.

The launch occurred during a ceremony hosted by the Vadodara Municipal Corporation coinciding with Sanghavi’s visit to the city.

Additionally, he laid the groundwork for a new girls' hostel at the Swarnim Gujarat Sports University located in Desar.

In his address, Sanghavi emphasized that the state government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is diligently working to convert the fundamental needs of the populace into readily available services in every municipal ward.

He pointed out the necessity for long-term planning in light of rapid urbanization. “By 2047, it is projected that about 60 to 70 percent of the population will reside in urban areas. The government is devoted to establishing organized infrastructure ahead of time to cater to the expanding urban demographic,” he stated.

Detailing the infrastructure advancements in Vadodara, Sanghavi noted that a special allocation of Rs 1,000 crore has been earmarked in the budget for the development of recently merged areas within the city.

He mentioned that Rs 800 crore has been designated for water supply lines, Rs 700 crore for the drainage system, and Rs 400 crore for the upgrading and reinforcement of roadways.

Under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme, a new overhead water tank and delivery network for the Bhayli and Sevasi regions were launched.

Sanghavi stated that this initiative will ensure clean drinking water access for over 50,000 residents. “In the past three years, the city has witnessed a 50 percent reduction in waterborne illnesses,” he remarked.

Highlighting efforts to enhance the city’s cultural and tourism infrastructure, Sanghavi announced plans for modern amenities, including an international fountain and a 3D digital mapping display at Sursagar Lake, with an investment of Rs 40 crore.

This project will also feature Mangala Aarti darshan, a laser fountain, and a multimedia light and sound presentation.

Moreover, a Heritage Square will be established near Nyay Mandir to safeguard the city’s cultural heritage while attracting visitors.

Sanghavi commended the Vadodara Municipal Corporation for successfully completing the deepening of the Vishwamitri river in what he referred to as record time.

“The swift completion of the Vishwamitri river deepening project exemplifies excellent collaboration between the state government and the local municipal body,” he stated.

Discussing Vadodara's economic landscape, Sanghavi noted the city is emerging in sectors such as IT, fintech, and semiconductors, which are set to gain further traction through the forthcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit.

He urged residents to take an active role in maintaining the city’s cleanliness. “Upholding cleanliness is not solely the government’s duty but also requires public engagement,” he asserted, encouraging citizens to refrain from littering and to protect public property.

In issuing what he termed a “cleanliness challenge” to the citizens, he expressed the ambition for Vadodara to achieve the top rank in cleanliness across the nation.