TFP Bureau, Raipur; February 28, 2024: Urban bodies across the state of Chhattisgarh must seek re-approval from the Urban Administration and Development Department to initiate projects that have remained dormant since the financial years 2019-20 to 2023-24. A recent circular issued by the department mandates that infrastructure projects and pending works approved under state-sponsored schemes require fresh approval before commencement.
Initiative Aimed at Fiscal Prudence
The Urban Administration and Development Department issued the circular in response to directives from the Finance Department, aimed at ensuring financial discipline and efficiency in government expenditure. Urban bodies, including Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats, are instructed to review and re-submit proposals for priority projects that have not yet commenced or have been canceled.
Directive to Urban Bodies
Addressing Commissioners of all Municipal Corporations and Chief Municipal Officers of Municipalities and Nagar Panchayats, the circular emphasizes adherence to time-bound instructions for prudent spending, as outlined by the state government and reiterated by the Finance Department. It underscores the need for renewed scrutiny of construction projects funded through the state budget, stipulating that only those with re-consent from the Finance Department may proceed.
Reevaluation Process
Projects sanctioned between 2019-20 and 2023-24, yet to commence, are considered canceled under the circular. However, if these projects remain a priority for the respective urban bodies, they are instructed to include them in the proposal for the current financial year (2023-24). Detailed proposals, aligned with departmental guidelines, must be submitted to the Directorate or State Urban Development Agency for evaluation.
The circular underscores the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and effective utilization of resources, ensuring that projects align with strategic priorities while maintaining transparency and accountability in urban development initiatives.
