Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)

The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), launched on 25 June, 2015, is a flagship initiative of the Government of India. AMRUT focuses on improving basic infrastructure in select cities across India to ensure a better quality of life for urban residents, with a particular focus on the poor and disadvantaged.

Key Objectives of AMRUT

1. Universal Access to Basic Services: Ensure all households have a reliable water supply, proper sanitation facilities, and effective storm water drainage systems.

2. Improved Urban Mobility: Promote sustainable modes of transport like cycling and walking, along with developing better public transportation infrastructure.

3. Enhanced Public Spaces: Create well-maintained parks, green spaces, and recreational areas to improve city aesthetics and livability.

4. Reforms and Capacity Building: Encourage urban local bodies (ULBs) to adopt financial and administrative reforms for improved service delivery and governance.

AMRUT's Phased Approach

AMRUT was launched in two phases:

1. Phase 1 (2015-2020): Targeted 500 cities across India.
2. Phase 2 (2021-2026): Focuses on core municipal services in all statutory towns of the country.

AMRUT's Focus Areas

Water Supply: Providing piped water supply to every household and improving the water distribution network.

Sewerage & Sanitation: Developing robust sewerage systems and ensuring proper waste management through improved sanitation facilities.

Storm Water Drainage: Creating effective drainage systems to prevent waterlogging and flooding during monsoons.

Non-Motorized Transport: Promoting cycling and walking by building dedicated lanes and creating a pedestrian-friendly environment.

Public Transport: Modernizing public transport systems with a focus on buses and metro rail networks.

Green Spaces and Parks: Developing parks, playgrounds, and recreational areas for leisure and community engagement.

Mission Components

1. Central Assistance: Provides financial aid to states and urban local bodies (ULBs) for project implementation.

2. State Matching Funds: States are required to contribute a matching share of the project costs.

3. Capacity Building: Offers training programs for ULB officials to improve project management, financial management, and service delivery.

4. Urban Reforms: Encourages ULBs to undertake reforms in areas like property tax collection, user charges, and e-governance for financial sustainability and better service delivery.

Who Can Apply for AMRUT Projects?

State governments on behalf of their ULBs can submit proposals for AMRUT projects.

Priority is given to cities with a large slum population, those lacking basic infrastructure, and those in heritage areas.

A Catalyst for Inclusive and Sustainable Cities

The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) is a transformative initiative shaping a brighter future for Indian cities. By prioritizing essential infrastructure, fostering sustainable practices, and promoting citizen participation, AMRUT paves the way for a more inclusive, healthier, and prosperous urban landscape. As AMRUT continues to evolve, its impact will be felt not just in improved infrastructure but also in a renewed sense of community pride and a collective commitment to building a sustainable and resilient urban future for all.