Thiruvananthapuram: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Executive Committee member, Kummanam Rajasekharan on Thursday welcomed the Union Government’s decision to sanction Rs 60 crore for the implementation of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 in Kerala, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening urban infrastructure and improving the quality of life in the state’s cities.
Rajasekharan said the sanction reflects the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central Government’s continued commitment to supporting Kerala’s development without political discrimination.
He termed the allocation 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.
According to the existing funding pattern of the scheme, the total sanctioned amount of Rs 60 crore comprises a Central share of Rs 20 crore (33.33 per cent) and a State contribution of Rs 40 crore (66.67 per cent).
The AMRUT 2.0 programme in Kerala covers the state’s six Municipal Corporations, besides 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 utilised for strengthening drinking water supply systems, expanding sewerage and wastewater management infrastructure, developing green public spaces, and promoting sustainable urban mobility.
These initiatives are expected to enhance 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 ensuring improved living standards for residents.
He urged the concerned urban local bodies and implementing agencies to ensure that the sanctioned funds are utilised efficiently, transparently and within the stipulated timeframe so that 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.
(IANS)
