Ahmedabad is on the brink of a transformative journey, aiming to elevate its status to a world-class city as it prepares for the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and possibly the Olympic Games in 2036. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has introduced a comprehensive budget of Rs 17,018 crore for 2026-27, focusing on infrastructure, sports facilities, and sustainable urban development.
Presented by Municipal Commissioner B N Pani, the draft budget outlines the establishment of a Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority, which will centralize traffic management and urban transport planning. This initiative is expected to enhance the efficiency of the city’s transport ecosystem, addressing growing urban mobility challenges.
Infrastructure Overhaul and Multimodal Transport Hubs
To mitigate congestion, the AMC has allocated Rs 980 crore for the development of four multimodal transport hubs at strategic entry points to Ahmedabad. These hubs will facilitate the seamless transition from private vehicles to the AMTS-BRTS network, significantly reducing traffic within city limits. Key locations include:
- Amiyapur (Zundal) on the Mehsana Highway
- Kabha-Bhulwadi on the Indore Highway
- Jetalpur, connecting routes to Nadiad, Vadodara, and Surat
- Bakrol on the Dholera-Rajkot Highway
Additionally, plans for a mega bus port on the Outer Ring Road, estimated at Rs 630 crore, aim to further enhance connectivity.
Investing in Sustainability and Sports
The budget prioritizes electric mobility, earmarking Rs 100 crore for a solar-powered charging policy and funds for new electric bus depots. Furthermore, nearly Rs 450 crore is allocated for sports infrastructure, including six new sports complexes and numerous playgrounds and gymnasiums.
On the environmental front, the AMC is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2038. Initiatives include installing 100 air quality monitoring systems and launching a five-million tree mission.
As Ahmedabad aims for a cleaner, more sustainable future, the city’s plans are poised to not only enhance local quality of life but also position it on the global stage. The AMC’s vision reflects a commitment to innovation and community well-being, setting the groundwork for a vibrant urban landscape.