Gandhinagar/Surat: In the very first month of 2026, the Gujarat government launched multiple development projects across the state valued at over Rs. 4,870 crore, aimed at improving urban infrastructure, public housing, and sustainable development.
Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel inaugurated development works worth Rs. 173.78 crore and laid foundation stones for projects worth Rs. 169 crore in Surat, effectively gifting development projects totaling Rs. 342 crore to the people of the city.
Surat: A Model City of Development and Urbanization
Addressing the public during the inauguration, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted Surat’s remarkable transformation into a model city of cleanliness, green mobility, and sustainable urban development. Known as the Diamond and Textile Capital of India, Surat is now also recognized for modern urban planning and rapid industrial growth.
“Surat has emerged as the fastest-growing city in the country and a true ‘Mini India’, attracting talent and workforce from across the nation. Its cleanliness, discipline, and modern urban planning set an example even for metropolitan cities like Mumbai,” he said.
The Chief Minister added that Gujarat has embraced Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s time-bound work culture, ensuring that foundation stones and project inaugurations happen within the same government tenure.
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Public Housing Redevelopment: 1,304 Families Benefit
Under the Public Housing Redevelopment Scheme–2016, the redevelopment of 1,304 housing units of Gotalawadi Tenament in Katargam was completed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Chief Minister Patel inaugurated the redeveloped units and conducted a computerized draw to allocate housing beneficiaries.
Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Harsh Sanghavi emphasized that continuous efforts by the state government and local administration ensure equitable development across all areas of Surat.
Infrastructure, Culture, and Green Energy Initiatives
Several key projects were inaugurated as part of the development drive:
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee Auditorium, Dabholi – newly constructed at a cost of Rs. 70 crore to promote cultural and social activities.
- Jiav Budia Lake Garden – developed at Rs. 12.66 crore for public recreation.
- 10 MW Solar Power Plant, Vithodar – ground-mounted, grid-connected, costing Rs. 55.56 crore, contributing to Surat’s renewable energy targets.
- Urban Health Centres, Lake Garden Reading Rooms, Shelter Homes, and other civic infrastructure projects.
Mayor Mr. Daxesh Mavani stated that the Municipal Corporation now generates 28.5% of its energy from renewable sources, saving Rs. 10 crore annually, with plans to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030.
Tapi Purification Project: A Leap in Environmental Protection
Union Minister for Jal Shakti Mr. C.R. Patil highlighted the Tapi Purification Project (Rs. 931 crore), which prevents industrial wastewater from Ukai entering the Tapi River. This initiative positions Surat as a national leader in clean water management and environmental sustainability.
The Municipal Corporation also generates revenue by treating wastewater, earning Rs. 400 crore annually, expected to rise to Rs. 700 crore in the coming years.
Surat’s Holistic Urban Development Journey
Chief Minister Patel emphasized that the urban development initiatives since 2005 have transformed Gujarat into a model state of holistic development. Projects launched today aim to enhance ease of living, sustainable growth, and cultural infrastructure for future generations.
He added, “Protecting, maintaining, and keeping public assets clean is the responsibility of every citizen. Development works such as auditoriums, libraries, and housing are created not just for today, but for generations to come.”
Leaders and Officials Attend the Mega Event
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Harsh Sanghavi, Finance Minister Mr. Kanubhai Desai, Union Minister Mr. C.R. Patil, MPs, MLAs, Mayor, corporators, municipal officials, and a large number of citizens.
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