Budget Session Commences:
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) initiated its budget session for the fiscal year 2024-2025, chaired by Mayor R Priya, marking the third consecutive year.
Projected Revenue:
The GCC anticipates a revenue of Rs 4464.60 crore for the financial year 2024-25, with an expenditure of Rs 4727.12 crore. Despite this, the revenue deficit has notably decreased to Rs 263 crores.
Initiatives for Educational Institutions:
- Allocation of Rs 7.64 crore to install CCTV cameras in 255 corporation schools across eight zones.
- Establishment of Child Protection Committees in primary and middle schools, to be chaired by ward councillors.
Efforts for Civic Management:
- Procurement of seven new vehicles, costing Rs 70 lakh, for stray dog control operations citywide.
- Allocation of Rs 1.16 crore to recruit 45 temporary workers to address issues related to stray cattle.
Flood Mitigation Measures:
- Allocation of Rs 10 crore towards desilting eight water bodies to mitigate flooding during monsoon seasons.
Financial Overview:
- A surplus of Rs 300 crore is expected in the capital account, with revenue and expenditure estimated at Rs 3,455 crores and Rs 3,140.58 crores, respectively.
- Introduction of `EmpowHer` gyms in 200 wards, costing Rs 10 crore, aimed at promoting women`s health and empowerment.
Infrastructure Development:
- Repair of 4,750 roads and pavements under various schemes, including NSMT, TURIF, and SFC, with a budget of Rs 404 crore.
Enhanced Funding for Local Development:
- Increase in the Chennai Mayor Development Fund from Rs 2 crore to Rs 3 crore.
- Raise in ward councillors` fund to Rs 45 lakh from Rs 40 lakh for the fiscal year 2024-25.
Technological Advancement:
- Allocation of Rs 1 crore to provide tablets for ward councillors, facilitating better communication and governance.
The budgetary allocations and proposed initiatives underscore GCC`s commitment to addressing key civic issues while promoting the overall development and well-being of Chennai and its residents.