712.59 km of Cycle Tracks Established Across 61 Cities Under Smart City Initiatives
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Synopsis
A total of 712.59 km of cycle tracks have been developed in 61 cities under the Smart City Missions, enhancing non-motorised transport in urban areas. Minister Tokhan Sahu shared insights on funding allocations and project statuses during a recent parliamentary session.
Key Takeaways
- 712.59 km of cycle tracks established in 61 cities.
- Focus on non-motorised urban transport under AMRUT.
- 351 projects initiated with significant financial investment.
- Reduction in NUDM funding under consideration.
- UPYOG portal to boost urban service digitization.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) As part of the Smart City Initiatives, a total of 712.59 km of cycle tracks have been constructed in 61 cities under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), as disclosed to Parliament on Monday.
Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, informed the Rajya Sabha that enhancing non-motorised urban transport is a key focus of the AMRUT Mission, which encompasses the development of pedestrian pathways, non-motorised transport options, public transport facilities, cycle tracks, and parking areas.
While discussing the cycle track initiatives, he noted, “Out of the total plan allocation of Rs 77,640 crore for AMRUT, Rs 1,436 crore (representing 2 percent) has been earmarked for this sector. According to reports from the States/Union Territories, 351 projects valued at Rs 1,021.46 crore have commenced, with works worth Rs 956.16 crore completed, contributing to the construction of 42.56 km of cycle track in 13 cities.
In response to a query regarding the decrease in funding for the National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) from Rs 1,150.02 crore in the Budget Estimate for 2024-25 to Rs 108.70 crore in the Revised Estimate for 2024-25, the Minister mentioned that the scheme is currently under review.
“Considering the approaching end of the fiscal year and adhering to the fund flow guidelines established by the Ministry of Finance, a request was made to reduce the funds to Rs 108.70 crore for 2024-25,” stated MoS Sahu.
When asked about the status of the adoption of modules under the Urban Platform for Delivery of Online Governance (UPYOG) portal and its impact on enhancing the quality of life for citizens, he indicated that financial aid for the digitization of urban services in 22 states/UTs through the UPYOG portal will be disbursed once the scheme receives approval and is rolled out.
In response to an inquiry about the Government's assessment of the potential expansion of the role of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) beyond municipal services to encompass areas like health, internal security, waste management, and traffic management, the Minister remarked that being a state matter, States/UTs may contemplate integrating city-level ICCCs into a comprehensive e-governance platform to improve operational efficiency tailored to local needs and conditions.
