Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has called for strengthening urban infrastructure to address persistent problems such as waterlogging, inadequate sewerage, disorganised electricity cables and irregular drinking water supply.
Speaking at the Urban Challenge Fund Conclave in Raipur, the Chief Minister said that roads should remain accessible to vehicles during the rainy season rather than reaching a situation where boats are needed because of waterlogging. He stressed the need for planned urban development and better civic amenities.
The state government signed two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) and CEPT University during the one-day workshop on the Urban Challenge Fund.
Drainage and Sewerage to Be Key Priorities
Addressing the issue of urban flooding, Sai said municipal bodies must take effective steps to improve drainage and sewerage systems. He expressed concern over situations in which heavy rain leaves roads waterlogged and disrupts movement.
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The Chief Minister urged mayors and urban local bodies to focus on addressing these infrastructure gaps so that residents face fewer difficulties during the monsoon.
MoUs with HUDCO and CEPT University
The two MoUs were signed to support urban development in Chhattisgarh. According to the Chief Minister, the agreements are expected to provide financial assistance, technical guidance and expert inputs.
These resources are intended to help assess existing urban challenges, identify development opportunities and prepare plans that account for future requirements.
Focus on Underground Power Cables and Drinking Water
The Chief Minister also highlighted the need to organise electricity cables in cities and explore underground cabling wherever feasible. He said this could help reduce the risk of accidents.
Ensuring an adequate and regular drinking water supply was another priority identified at the conclave. Sai emphasised that urban development should focus not only on construction but also on improving the civic services available to residents.
Urban Development Linked to Viksit Bharat 2047
Sai said planned and modern cities would play an important role in achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
He also referred to the state’s economic growth ambitions, citing a target to increase the economy from ₹6 lakh crore to ₹75 lakh crore. He stressed that strengthening urban infrastructure was important alongside economic development.
The conclave brought the state government’s focus on urban infrastructure and civic services into discussion.
About HUDCO
The Housing and Urban Development Corporation Limited (HUDCO) is a public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Established on April 25, 1970, it provides financial assistance for housing and urban infrastructure projects, including water supply, sewerage, drainage, roads and urban transport. HUDCO was granted Navratna status by the Government of India in 2024.
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