Ahmedabad, Dec 28 (NationPress) Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Sunday officially launched and initiated the groundwork for development projects amounting to Rs 330 crore, undertaken by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC). This event signifies a crucial advancement in the urban infrastructural development of the city.

The ceremony took place with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel present, featuring the unveiling of an idol of Lord Ganesh and the distribution of land ownership certificates (sanads) to relocated residents of the New Vanjar village.

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the Western Trunk Main Line project, a long-anticipated drainage scheme of essential significance for the western and southwestern regions of Ahmedabad.

This project aims to deliver a permanent resolution to the sewage overflow and wastewater management problems that nearly 15 lakh residents across various localities have faced.

During his address, HM Shah characterized the event as modest in scale yet profoundly significant.

Reflecting on the devastating floods of 1973 that impacted many families, he acknowledged that after almost five decades, 173 families affected by these floods have finally received legal rights to their residential plots.

"Although the number may appear insignificant in a city as vast as Ahmedabad, for these families, this moment is historic and deeply meaningful," he remarked.

The Union Minister praised local MLA Amitbhai Thakar, the Mayor of Ahmedabad, and the Municipal Commissioner for their sensitive and decisive action in addressing an issue that has lingered for over half a century.

He noted that the resolution of such longstanding issues showcases the essence of compassionate and responsive governance.

HM Shah pointed out that for years, nearly 15 lakh residents in western and southwestern Ahmedabad have lacked a proper drainage system.

Rapid urbanization, particularly between 2000 and 2005 in areas from Shela to Chandkheda, has outpaced the development of infrastructure.

"As a Member of Parliament, it was disheartening to see sewage overflowing in numerous areas," he expressed.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urban development initiatives like AMRUT have been effectively utilized to enhance living conditions in cities.

As part of this initiative, extensive RCC pipelines with diameters between 1,200 mm and 1,800 mm have been installed at an estimated cost of nearly Rs 400 crore.

This infrastructure will serve areas such as Gota, Chandlodia, Science City, South Bopal, Bhadaj, Hebatpur, Thaltej, Bopal-Ghuma, Bodakdev, Vejalpur, Sarkhej, Maktampura, Juhapura, Fatehwadi, Shantipura, and Sanathal, providing a long-term solution to drainage challenges.

"The reason decades-old requests are being addressed with empathy is due to the politics of compassionate development envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Amit Shah stated.

He added, "Whether people voice their demands or not, identifying and resolving public issues has become the governance culture from Gujarat to the rest of the nation."

Chief Minister Patel, during his address, indicated that as 2025 approaches, the year will be remembered for unparalleled development and global recognition for Ahmedabad.

He emphasized that the state government, under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Shah, is dedicated to ensuring that basic needs like food, clothing, and housing are available to all citizens.

"Every decision made by Narendra Modi centers on the welfare of the most disadvantaged individuals," the Chief Minister stated, highlighting that this approach has consistently translated into enhanced quality of life and improved civic amenities.

He also noted that the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency has become one of the greenest regions, with initiatives like Miyawaki forests and oxygen parks significantly boosting green cover.

Regarding the distribution of sanads to Vanjar village residents, the CM remarked that this action reflects the principle that a genuine public servant is one who comprehends and alleviates the suffering of the people.

He announced that the urban development budget has been increased by 40 percent to Rs 30,000 crore, and 2025 is being celebrated as the 'Year of Urban Development.' Looking forward, he stated that Ahmedabad is set to become a center for international sporting events and urged citizens to collectively pledge to maintain the city's cleanliness, beauty, and greenery.

Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain expressed appreciation to Union Home Minister Shah, also the Gandhinagar MP, and Chief Minister Patel for their unwavering support in enhancing urban infrastructure and civic facilities in the city.

The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Narhari Amin, local MLAs, Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani, Collector Sujit Kumar, senior AMC officials, other dignitaries, and a large number of city residents.