Is Surat Municipal Corporation's Green Bond a Game Changer for Sustainable Development?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Surat's Green Bond signifies the city's commitment to sustainable development.
- The bond raised ₹800 crore, showcasing strong investor interest.
- Gujarat CM Patel emphasizes balancing economy and ecology.
- International investors are looking at Surat as a model for cleanliness and green mobility.
- Surat aims to be a leading example of green energy by 2047.
Mumbai, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Surat Municipal Corporation's ₹200 crore green municipal bond was officially listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) in the city on Thursday, according to officials.
The event featured Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ringing the 'ceremonial bell' in a traditional style, accompanied by NSE Managing Director and CEO Ashishkumar Chauhan and Surat Mayor Dakshesh Mavani, along with other prominent officials.
In his address, the Gujarat Chief Minister emphasized that India has set a global standard by balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. He remarked that green, clean, and self-reliant cities are essential for building a prosperous nation.
Commending the Surat Municipal Corporation's Green Bond initiative, he stated it would contribute significantly to achieving the target of Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2070.
He also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to development that respects nature and praised the effective planning of Surat's green projects.
Importantly, the Surat Municipal Corporation's Green Bond has attracted international interest from global investors, making it a model for cleanliness and green mobility across the nation.
Chief Minister Patel remarked, "The ₹200 crore Municipal Green Bond issued by the Surat Municipal Corporation has engaged the community in green and sustainable development. The bond's eight-fold subscription reflects the remarkable enthusiasm investors have towards green bonds."
He noted that this initiative will hasten the city's progress and mentioned that under India’s G20 presidency, aligned with the Prime Minister's message of "One Earth, One Family, One Future", member nations have prioritized sustainable development and green growth.
Surat Mayor Mavani, during the event, stated that sustainable energy will exemplify Prime Minister Modi's vision for a developed India by 2047.
"Surat is a mini-India. Each individual has played a role in Surat’s progress. The city has received nearly 14 awards to date. We aim to transform Surat into the world's best city powered by green energy," he added.
These green bonds opened for subscription on October 6 and concluded on October 9.
During this period, the Surat Municipal Corporation's green bonds reached ₹800 crore, against an initial demand of ₹200 crore.
As a result, allocations will be made via a draw system.
The Municipal Corporation has invited offers for the allocation of ₹30 crore, or 15% of the total bond issue, specifically for the retail sector.