Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project

• 07 Nov 2024

Why in News?

Recently, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a USD 200 million loan to enhance urban services in Uttarakhand, including water supply, sanitation, and urban mobility.

• The European Investment Bank is co-financing the project with a USD 191 million parallel investment to further support urban infrastructure enhancements.

Key Points

• Objectives of the Project:
  • The project aligns with India’s urban development agenda and Uttarakhand’s goals to improve urban services, aiming for greater livability and sustainability in cities.
  • It will focus on building climate- and disaster-resilient urban infrastructure to safeguard Uttarakhand’s population from risks like floods and landslides.
• Initiatives Included under the Project:
  • Key Upgrades in Haldwani- Economic Hub of Uttarakhand:
    • In Haldwani, climate-resilient roads will be developed, along with an intelligent traffic management system, CNG buses, and electric bus pilots.
    • The project includes constructing stormwater and roadside drains and implementing an early warning system for improved flood resilience.
    • A green-certified administrative complex and bus terminal will enhance public service delivery.
  • Water Supply and Sanitation Improvements in Four Cities:
    • In Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, and Vikasnagar, the project aims for 100% water service coverage, installing climate-resilient pipelines, tubewells, new reservoirs, and a water treatment plant.
    • Sanitation coverage will be increased through sewage treatment facilities.
  • Women's Empowerment and Livelihood Opportunities:
    • The project will provide skill training for women such as bus driving, ticketing, and managing electric charging stations.
    • The project will train women, including those from vulnerable households, in operating and managing water and sanitation services.

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

• ADB is a multilateral development bank established in 1966 with a mission to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region.
• It is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and has 69 members.
• It is governed by a board of governors and funded through member contributions, retained earnings from lending, and loan repayments.

European Investment Bank (EIB)

• It was established in 1958 and is the lending arm of the European Union.
• It is one of the biggest multilateral financial institutions in the world and one of the largest providers of climate finance.
• Since 1993, EIB has been supporting India’s evolving green ambitions by investing in sustainable urban transport and renewable energy.