Government of India, ADB sign $181 million loan to improve livability and mobility in Ahmedabad

India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have collaboratively signed a $181 million loan agreement targeting the improvement of infrastructure and services in the peri-urban areas surrounding Ahmedabad city in Gujarat.

Objectives and Focus Areas:

1. Enhancing Physical and Social Infrastructure:

• Improving physical and social infrastructure in peri-urban areas.
• Fostering economic vibrancy and establishing them as attractive investment destinations.

2. Managing Urban Expansion Effectively:

• Addressing the unique opportunity presented by Ahmedabad’s economic growth.
• Focus on expanding quality urban services and improving transport connectivity, especially for the migrant population.

3. Uplifting Marginalized Communities:

• Prioritizing marginalized communities including urban poor, women, and migrant workers.
• Construction of essential infrastructure to improve urban services and governance while promoting inclusivity and sustainability.

Strategies and Implementation:

1. Integrating Climate Change Adaptation:

• Strengthening urban planning capacities by integrating climate change adaptation into development strategies.
• Promoting gender equality and social inclusion to create models for planned urban development.

2. Capacity Building and Empowerment:

• Empowering government agencies through capacity-building initiatives.
• Enhancing financial planning, revenue generation, and infrastructure asset management.

3. Community Engagement and Behavioral Change:

• Conducting community engagement activities such as awareness campaigns on water conservation and hygiene.
• Instilling behavioral change and promoting sustainable practices.

Innovative Approaches:

1. Involvement of Women Self-Help Groups:

• Engaging women self-help groups in water supply operations.
• Fostering economic empowerment and social cohesion.

2. Exploration of Public-Private Partnerships:

• Exploring innovative avenues for sewage recycling through public-private partnerships.
• Furthering sustainable resource management practices.