‘Smart City work in MP remains largely invisible’, says Vijayvargiya:Claims ₹200 crore spent on underground drainage and water projects

On the completion of two years of the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav-led government, Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya highlighted the achievements of his department. Smart City projects: Work under the surface Answering questions about the 2014 Smart City initiative launched by the BJP government, Vijayvargiya said some work is visible, while much remains underground. “For example, large drainage lines were laid in Bhopal and Satna. People faced difficulties during construction, streets were dug up, and there was public criticism. Now, the work is complete and the roads restored. The expenditure may not be visible, but it was necessary for the city,” he said. He added that Rs 200 crore has been spent underground on water distribution and drainage lines, which may not be apparent to the public. “People now receive water at home, and drainage issues are resolved. Some projects are visible, some are not, but the city has indeed become smarter,” Vijayvargiya added. Master plans for Indore and Bhopal ready Regarding city master plans, the minister confirmed that Indore and Bhopal’s master plans have been finalized and will soon be reviewed by the Chief Minister. Traffic and Urban Transport plans Vijayvargiya addressed urban transport concerns: Slum-free cities and Housing schemes On the issue of slum-free cities, Vijayvargiya said: Maintaining greenery and Urban lungs The minister stressed the importance of greenery in cities: We do not compromise on greenery. Gardens are being converted into CM Van Parks. Trees are the lungs of the city, and all municipal bodies have been instructed to maintain them properly. Infrastructure and Fire safety Vijayvargiya assured that: Other key initiatives