State seeks funds from Centre for its mega projects

As Maharastra aims to complete its mega transport projects,the state government has presented its list of Viability Gap Funding requirements to the 13th Finance Commission.

As Maharastra aims to complete its mega transport projects,the state government has presented its list of Viability Gap Funding (VGF) requirements to the 13th Finance Commission. During a recent visit to Maharashtra by the commission members,the state government presented a consolidated list of funds it needs for its mega projects through VGF.

Among the prominent projects is the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL),which is now being built by the MMRDA. When the project was first launched,it was pegged at Rs 4,000 crore. In its recent report to the 13th Finance Commission,the state government sought that amount as VGF with the total coast now reaching Rs 20,000 crore.

Officials have maintained that the state government will seek 20 per cent VGF for MTHL from the Centre. The project now includes two Metro lines along the road connection between Sewri and Nhava Seva.

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The government also sought total funding of Rs 2,350 crore for the Brihanmumbai Stormwater Drainage (Brimstowad) project through the Prime Minister fund. This project was initially slated to cost Rs 1,200 crore. The state government has sought Rs 2,100 crore for its coastal road project under JNNURM. It has also asked for Rs 2,100 crore for a utility duct project and Rs 350 crore for the Mithi river project,which costs Rs 1,000 crore.

Among other things,the state government has sought for JNNURM to be extended till the financial year 2013-14,an extension to its current deadline of 2012. For projects in other parts of the state,the government has asked for Rs 3,500 crore for its river linking project and Rs 3,675 crore for its various water supply projects under the JNNURM. The government also wants the Central share of Rs 1,995 crore for the sewerage projects worth Rs 5,700 crore in the state.

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