Did the Centre Secure a $125 Million ADB Loan to Upgrade Urban Services in Assam?
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Synopsis
In a significant move for urban development, the Indian Government has partnered with the Asian Development Bank to secure a $125 million loan. This funding aims to improve urban services and boost climate resilience in Assam, directly impacting over 360,000 residents. Discover how this initiative will transform the infrastructure landscape in Assam's urban areas.
Key Takeaways
- Loan Amount: $125 million from ADB.
- Residents Benefited: 360,000 residents in Assam.
- Infrastructure Projects: Six water treatment plants and 800 km of pipelines.
- Focus Areas: Urban governance and climate resilience.
- Social Inclusion: Emphasis on women and girls in project activities.
New Delhi, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Indian Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) formalized a loan agreement worth $125 million on Monday aimed at improving urban living conditions and enhancing climate resilience in six district headquarters and Guwahati in Assam.
This initiative will support 360,000 residents in Assam by ensuring a continuous metered water supply and advancing stormwater management systems. It also aims to fortify urban governance through institutional reforms and capacity building.
The Assam Urban Sector Development Project will focus on critical infrastructure improvements, including the construction of six water treatment facilities with a total capacity of 72 million litres per day and 800 km of distribution pipelines across the district headquarters of Barpeta, Bongaigaon, Dhubri, Goalpara, Golaghat, and Nalbari. The project will also implement a real-time monitoring system to ensure non-revenue water remains below 20 percent.
In Guwahati, improvements will be made to stormwater management in the Bahini Basin through the construction of flood diversion channels, enhanced drainage systems, and a nature-based retention pond aimed at reducing flood discharge and boosting groundwater recharge.
The initiative also encompasses the establishment of the Assam State Institute for Urban Development in partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati. Furthermore, it will introduce a GIS-based property tax database, digital water billing systems, and a volumetric water tariff structure across project towns to enhance financial sustainability and service delivery.
Significantly, the project emphasizes support for women and girls, incorporating social inclusion through training for women’s self-help groups in water management, internships for college-age women, and outreach programs in schools to raise awareness about water, sanitation, and hygiene.
The loan agreement for the Assam Urban Sector Development Project was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance, representing the Government of India, and Mio Oka, Country Director, India Resident Mission, for ADB.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of this $125 million loan agreement between the Indian Government and ADB. It represents a commitment to improving urban infrastructure and governance in Assam, impacting hundreds of thousands of residents. This project not only addresses immediate infrastructural needs but also emphasizes sustainability and social inclusion, ensuring that the benefits reach all segments of society. It’s a step in the right direction for urban development in India.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the $125 million loan?
The loan aims to enhance urban livability and strengthen climate resilience in six district headquarters and Guwahati in Assam.
Who signed the loan agreement?
The loan agreement was signed by Juhi Mukherjee, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, and Mio Oka, Country Director of ADB.
How many residents will benefit from the project?
Approximately 360,000 residents of Assam will benefit from this initiative.
What infrastructure improvements are planned?
Planned improvements include six water treatment plants, 800 km of distribution pipelines, and upgraded stormwater management systems.
What social initiatives are included in the project?
The project includes training for women self-help groups, internships for young women, and outreach programs in schools.
