The Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) is a flagship program of the Government of India, launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) to enhance urban infrastructure. The mission aims to provide universal access to clean drinking water, proper sewerage facilities, efficient urban transport, and well-maintained green spaces in cities.
With rapid urbanization, many cities struggle with poor sanitation, pollution, and traffic congestion. AMRUT seeks to improve the quality of life in cities by modernizing their infrastructure, making them greener, healthier, and more sustainable.
Overview
AMRUT focuses on transforming urban areas by addressing key concerns such as water supply, sewage management, pollution control, and public transport. The mission operates in 500 selected cities across India, prioritizing sustainable urban development.
The primary objectives of AMRUT are:
- Providing every household with clean and safe drinking water.
- Providing proper sewage and wastewater treatment facilities.
- Developing stormwater drainage systems to prevent urban flooding.
- Encouraging non-motorized transport such as cycling and pedestrian pathways.
- Enhancing urban greenery and public spaces for a healthier environment.
Key Skill
AMRUT is structured around five key focus areas to improve urban living conditions:
1. Water Supply
- Expanding and upgrading water supply systems.
- Setting up water treatment plants for safe drinking water.
- Universal metering to monitor and manage water usage.
- Reviving water bodies to maintain ecological balance.
2. Sewerage & Septage Management
- Developing underground sewage networks and treatment plants.
- Reusing and recycling wastewater for sustainable use.
- Improving faecal sludge management for better sanitation.
3. Storm Water Drainage
- Upgrading drainage systems to prevent flooding.
- Ensuring efficient stormwater management for climate resilience.
4. Urban Transport
- Promoting eco-friendly transport systems like Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).
- Constructing pedestrian walkways, cycling tracks, and foot over-bridges.
- Introducing multi-level parking facilities to ease congestion.
5. Green Spaces & Parks
- Developing child-friendly parks and recreational spaces.
- Expanding green cover for better air quality.
Key Benefits
AMRUT brings several advantages to urban residents by improving their living standards:
- Better access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation.
- Reduced pollution levels through better transport and green initiatives.
- Less risk of urban flooding due to better drainage systems.
- More public spaces and parks for recreational activities.
- Stronger local economies due to improved urban infrastructure.
Eligibility Criteria
Unlike individual welfare schemes, AMRUT is a city-based initiative, meaning citizens do not need to apply for benefits. The program automatically covers selected cities, which include:
- Cities with a population over one lakh, including cantonment areas.
- All capital cities of states and Union Territories.
- Cities designated as Heritage Cities under the HRIDAY scheme.
- Cities along major rivers with populations between 75,000 and 1 lakh.
- Hill stations, islands, and tourist destinations, with a limit of one city per state.
Responsibilities
1. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) & State Governments
- Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are responsible for planning and implementing projects.
- If ULBs lack expertise, State Governments can assign the task to specialized agencies.
- State Annual Action Plans (SAAP) outline project priorities.
2. Central Government Support
- Provides financial and technical support.
- Monitors project implementation and ensures accountability.
- Encourages cities to adopt smart solutions for urban problems.
Application Process
Individuals do not need to apply for AMRUT. The scheme is implemented at the city level by government authorities.
However, Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) must follow these steps:
- Identify infrastructure needs and propose development plans.
- Submit proposals to the State Government.
- Execute projects after approval from MoHUA.
- Monitor progress through reform tracking and capacity building.
Documents Required
Since AMRUT is a government-led urban transformation program, no personal documents are required from citizens. The process is managed entirely by municipal and state authorities.