AMRUT 2.0: Centre sanctions Rs 60 crore for urban development in Kerala
text_fields
Thiruvananthapuram: BJP National Executive Committee member Kummanam Rajasekharan on Thursday welcomed the Union government's decision to sanction Rs 60 crore for implementing the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 in Kerala, calling it a significant step towards strengthening urban infrastructure and improving the quality of life in the state's cities.
Rajasekharan said the sanction reflected the Narendra Modi-led Central government's continued commitment to Kerala's development without political discrimination. He described the allocation as a clear demonstration of the Centre's resolve to ensure that every state receives its rightful share for infrastructure development and urban transformation.
The funds have been approved by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under the 'Mother Sanction' mechanism for the 2026-27 financial year to facilitate the smooth implementation of the AMRUT 2.0 programme in the state.
Under the existing funding pattern of the scheme, the total sanctioned amount of Rs 60 crore comprises a Central share of Rs 20 crore, or 33.33 per cent, and a State contribution of Rs 40 crore, or 66.67 per cent.
The AMRUT 2.0 programme in Kerala covers the state's six Municipal Corporations and three major municipalities with populations exceeding one lakh — Kottayam, Alappuzha and Palakkad.
The financial assistance is intended to support a range of urban infrastructure projects aimed at improving civic amenities and creating more sustainable cities. The sanctioned funds will primarily be used to strengthen drinking water supply systems, expand sewerage and wastewater management infrastructure, develop green public spaces and promote sustainable urban mobility.
These initiatives are expected to improve basic urban services while contributing to environmentally sustainable and citizen-friendly urban growth.
Rajasekharan said the Centre's support would play a crucial role in modernising Kerala's urban centres and improving living standards for residents. He urged the concerned urban local bodies and implementing agencies to ensure that the sanctioned funds are utilised efficiently and transparently and within the stipulated timeframe, so that the projects are completed to the highest standards.
Describing the fresh sanction under AMRUT 2.0 as a milestone in Kerala's urban development journey, Rajasekharan expressed confidence that the initiative would accelerate the transformation of the state's cities into modern, resilient and sustainable urban centres while delivering tangible benefits to citizens.
With IANS inputs