New Delhi: The Urban Development Ministry has sought an additional allocation of over Rs 3000 crores from Planning Commission for implementing urban infrastructure development schemes in small and medium towns across the country.

"We have written to the Planning Commission for additional funds as there is a shortfall of Rs 3295.19 crores," said a senior Urban Development Ministry official.

There are 649 approved projects to be implemented in 524 towns while the total allocation was Rs 6,400 crores for a seven year period from 2005.

The urban infrastructure development scheme aims at improvement in urban infrastructure in towns and cities in a planned manner.

"The objectives of the scheme are to promote planned integrated development of towns and cities by improving infrastructural facilities. It would help create durable public assets and quality oriented services in cities and towns," the official said.

The scheme also envisages public-private partnership in infrastructural development. The scheme includes construction and upgradation of roads and highways, shifting of industrial establishments from non-conforming areas to conforming areas to reduce congestion, replacement of worn-out pipes by new and higher capacity ones, renewal of sewerage system.

Source : PTI