With an aim to improve the conditions of the underpriviledged, Nagrik Budget Adhikar Pahel on Friday sought to include more funds for the developmental works in the annual civic body budget.
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) can allot roughly 10% development works to these poor people and help them earn a living, the NGO sought to hold a press conference in the city. The meeting was held in presence of representatives of the poor and underprivileged.
Parshottam Vaghela, a member of the NGO, said AMC is not using 10% of the budget for the section. According to the GPMC Act, 1949, Section 63 (2), the municipal corporation should spend 10% of its annual income for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs/ STs) and other people belonging to the economically weaker sections. The amount should be spent to provide them with basic amenities such as water, drainage, cleanliness, street lights, health, removal of slums etc.
"AMC is giving only toilets to the slums. But, do we only need toilets? Many slums don't even get water. Even, the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) housings in Vejalpur, Amraiwadi, Sabarmati and Chadkheda do not get sufficient water. These slums were built by AMC and AUDA," said Vaghela.
"We are meeting local councillors and ward committee members since last three months and informing them about what the locals need. We want EWS ho-usings to get basic facilities and also Narmada water. All shanties in AMC's jurisdiction will be surveyed," added Vaghela.
