Comprehensive Overview of the AMRUT Scheme

Understanding the AMRUT Scheme

The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) is an initiative aimed at tackling critical urban challenges such as water supply, mobility, and pollution. This mission receives financial support from the Centre, States, and local city governments to create sustainable urban environments.

Objectives of AMRUT

The primary goals of the AMRUT scheme include:

• Ensuring that every household has access to a tap with a reliable water supply and a sewerage connection.
• Developing green spaces and well-maintained parks for community use.
• Reducing pollution through the promotion of public transport and non-motorized transport options.

Funding Overview

AMRUT has two phases of funding:

• AMRUT 1.0: Launched with a total outlay of ₹50,000 crore for five years, from FY 2015-16 to FY 2019-20.
• AMRUT 2.0: An expanded budget of ₹2,99,000 crore, which includes ₹76,760 crore from the Centre for five years.

Progress Achieved

As of May 19, 2024, significant progress has been made:

• 58,66,237 tap connections established.
• 37,49,467 sewerage connections provided.
• 2,411 parks developed.
• Replacement of 62,78,571 LED lights to promote energy efficiency.

Challenges Faced

Despite the achievements, several challenges remain:

• Inadequate access to water, sanitation, and hygiene continues to pose health risks.
• Urban areas face significant water shortages and deteriorating air quality.
• Approximately 31% of urban households lack piped water, while 67.3% are not connected to sewerage systems.
• The average water supply per person is insufficient to meet basic needs.

Shortcomings of the Scheme

The AMRUT scheme has faced criticism for several reasons:

• Project-Oriented Approach: The scheme lacks a comprehensive, integrated approach to urban development.
• Lack of Local Participation: Minimal involvement from city governments and community representatives.
• Top-Down Governance: The initiative is primarily led by bureaucrats and private consultants.
• Poorly Designed Infrastructure: Many sewage treatment plants need better planning and execution.
• Real Estate Focus: Urban planning is often driven by real estate interests rather than sustainability.

Recommendations for Improvement

To enhance the effectiveness of the AMRUT scheme, the following recommendations are proposed:

• Holistic Urban Planning: Integrate water management with environmental considerations and involve local governments.
• Comprehensive Methodology: Adopt a people-centric approach to urban development that addresses community needs.
• Strengthen Governance: Revise governance structures to include local stakeholders and improve transparency.
• Sustainable Practices: Implement measures to protect water bodies and develop effective stormwater management systems.

By addressing the shortcomings and adhering to these recommendations, India can significantly improve its urban infrastructure, paving the way for sustainable and inclusive development for its urban population.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the AMRUT scheme's primary focus?
Answer: The AMRUT scheme focuses on improving urban infrastructure by enhancing water supply, sanitation, public transport, and green spaces to create sustainable cities.

Q2. How much funding is allocated for AMRUT 2.0?
Answer: AMRUT 2.0 has a total outlay of ₹2,99,000 crore, which includes ₹76,760 crore from the Centre for five years.

Q3. What are the major achievements of AMRUT so far?
Answer: Major achievements include establishing over 58 lakh tap connections, 37 lakh sewerage connections, and developing more than 2,400 parks across urban areas.

Q4. What challenges does the AMRUT scheme face?
Answer: Challenges include inadequate water supply, lack of sanitation facilities, and insufficient community participation in urban planning.

Q5. How can AMRUT improve urban planning?
Answer: AMRUT can improve urban planning by integrating local needs, adopting sustainable practices, and involving community representatives in decision-making processes.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main goal of the AMRUT scheme?
A) Increase real estate development
B) Improve urban infrastructure for water and sanitation
C) Promote private transport
D) Enhance bureaucratic control
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: How much total funding is allocated for AMRUT 1.0?
A) ₹2,99,000 crore
B) ₹50,000 crore
C) ₹76,760 crore
D) ₹1,00,000 crore
Correct Answer: B