CM Dr. Mohan Yadav has laid out a comprehensive urban development roadmap focused on curbing slum growth, enhancing environmental sustainability, and strengthening infrastructure in Madhya Pradesh. The directives came during a review meeting of the Urban Development and Housing Department held at Samatva Bhavan, CM’s residence in Bhopal.
Affordable Housing to Replace Slums
Dr. Yadav stressed the need to develop affordable and convenient housing options tailored to the socio-economic needs of urban dwellers to prevent the unchecked spread of slums. Special priority is to be given to providing homes for Ladli sisters, a key welfare demographic in the state.
Action Against Illegal Constructions
The CM directed immediate action against unauthorized constructions around Bhopal’s Bada Talab, calling for a detailed survey and firm enforcement to preserve the city’s environment and urban planning norms.
Urban Beautification and Environmental Focus
Highlighting the importance of a healthy environment, Dr. Yadav urged urban authorities to develop gardens and plant saplings in all new housing projects, including those by the Housing Board and Vikas Pradhikaran. He also proposed setting aside reserved land for the creation of ‘Nagar Vans’ (Urban Forests), with fixed responsibility for their upkeep.
Rail and Fire Safety Upgrades
To enhance connectivity, Dr. Yadav proposed the introduction of a “Namo Train” inter-city rail service, and announced plans to discuss the project with Union Railway Minister Mr. Ashwini Vaishnaw. He also emphasized the modernization of fire services to handle accidents in cities and industrial areas.
Support for Local Vendors and Self-Help Groups
Urban bodies have been directed to provide designated spaces for meat and fish vendors, ensuring hygiene and order. Dr. Yadav also proposed forming Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in cities and supporting them with financial assistance and space to run modern laundry services, promoting local entrepreneurship.
Expansion of Welfare Schemes
The CM called for the expansion of the Deendayal Rasoi Yojana to religious sites, recommending NGO and donor involvement. He stressed that houses built under the PM Awas Yojana (Urban) and other schemes must be handed over promptly upon possession.
Metro Projects and Pink Toilets
Progress was reported on the Bhopal and Indore Metro projects, which are slated to be fully operational by 2027. Additionally, 218 pink toilets for women are being operated in 183 municipal bodies to ensure women-friendly urban infrastructure.
Massive Infrastructure Investment
Urban Development and Housing Minister Mr. Kailash Vijayvargiya shared that a Rs. 2,800 crore work plan is being readied for Chitrakoot, with Rs. 400 crore DPR under preparation. A total of 1062 infrastructure projects worth Rs. 1,070 crore are ongoing under the CM Urban Area Infrastructure Construction Scheme.
Water Supply, Sewerage, and e-Governance Push
As part of improving civic utilities, 333 water supply and sewerage projects worth Rs. 11,000 crore have been approved. Officials were also instructed to expand online citizen services and promote town and village investment activities.
In urban areas, 36 water structures have been revived, 38 green zones developed, and 1,963 rainwater harvesting systems built. An action plan for 30 drains has been drafted to ensure wastewater treatment and purification, aligning with the Jal Samvardhan Abhiyan goals.
Administrative Reforms and Recruitment
Dr. Yadav emphasized the need for timely promotions of departmental staff and directed the preparation of an advance recruitment action plan to fill existing vacancies efficiently.
Key Officials Present
The meeting was attended by Minister of State Ms. Pratima Bagri, Chief Secretary Mr. Anurag Jain (1989-batch IAS officer), Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Rajesh Rajoura (1990-batch IAS officer), ACS Mr. Sanjay Shukla (1994-batch IAS officer), and other senior officers. The discussions also included reviewing resolution points such as Metro operations, governance, and infrastructure development.
This comprehensive review highlights the state government’s commitment to inclusive urban growth, sustainable development, and empowering local communities in Madhya Pradesh.
