Ahmedabad, Jan 16 (NationPress) The government of Gujarat, under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, remains dedicated to enhancing urban living and advancing urbanisation throughout the state. As cities evolve, newly integrated regions often encounter deficiencies in essential services, prompting the administration to prioritize the rectification of these issues through focused infrastructure developments.

In this vein, the Navsari Municipal Corporation (NMC) has initiated a significant project with an investment of ₹112 crore aimed at establishing a modern water supply and drainage system to address the persistent challenges of drinking water shortages and sewage management in its outlying areas.

Navsari officially transitioned into a municipal corporation on January 1, 2025, uniting the former Navsari–Vijalpor municipality with four surrounding villages: Aru, Dharagiri, Dantej, and Hansapor.

These peri-urban regions have long grappled with insufficient water pipelines and a lack of underground drainage systems, leading to frequent sanitation problems and health risks, particularly affecting children.

The newly launched project aims to effectively resolve these challenges by constructing a comprehensive and state-of-the-art water and sewage network, benefiting over 25,000 residents. The ₹112-crore initiative will be implemented in phases and encompasses the installation of new water supply pipelines, an upgraded drainage system, overhead tanks, underground sumps, a sewage pumping station, and a fully operational Sewage Treatment Plant (STP).

A new water treatment facility will also be established to guarantee safe and reliable drinking water.

Officials assert that these enhancements will significantly diminish waterborne illnesses and provide much-needed relief to communities that have depended on outdated or insufficient systems.

In addition to water and drainage improvements, NMC is also focused on elevating overall public amenities in the newly merged areas.

Future plans include developing new roads, installing street lights, creating parks and waterfront recreational spaces, constructing civic centers, and distributing dustbins to encourage cleaner streets. These enhancements aim to bring the outer regions in line with central Navsari in terms of infrastructure and quality of life.

According to Navsari Municipal Commissioner Dev Chaudhary, the corporation is prioritizing the enhancement of fundamental civic services such as drainage, water supply, and storm-water management.

He highlighted that the first phase will concentrate on these four villages, with progress being made as scheduled.

“This project will deliver immediate and visible benefits to residents, significantly improving overall well-being,” he stated.

This initiative for improved urban infrastructure aligns with Gujarat’s overarching developmental trajectory. In 2005, former Chief Minister Narendra Modi proclaimed the first ‘Urban Development Year’, sparking efforts to upgrade and expand civic services statewide.

Two decades later, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel revitalized this initiative by designating 2025 as ‘Urban Development Year’, reaffirming the state’s commitment to creating modern, inclusive, and resilient urban centers.

The Navsari project symbolizes this long-term vision — to fortify smaller cities, enhance public health, and ensure dignified access to vital services for every citizen.