The Hindu Business Line : CMP gives priority to infrastructure

IN an effort to bring about the development and expansion of various infrastructure sectors such as roads, highways, ports, power, railways, water supply, sewage treatment and sanitation, the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) has attached the highest priority to these areas.

"Private investment in infrastructure will be enhanced, even as the role of the private sector is expanded. Subsidies will be made explicit and provided through the Budget," the 24-page document, which was released on Thursday said.

With Railways constituting the core of the country's infrastructure, the CMP has said that public investment for its modernisation, track renewal and safety will be substantially increased. The documents add that railway reforms will be pursued.

In addition, the Government has committed itself to a comprehensive programme of urban renewal and to a massive expansion of social housing in towns and cities, paying particular attention to the needs of slum dwellers.

"Housing for the weaker sections in rural areas will be extended on a large scale. Forced eviction and demolition of slums will be stopped and while undertaking urban renewal, care will be taken to see that the urban and semi-urban poor are provided housing near their place of occupation," the statement has said.

The UPA will also pay special attention to augmentation and modernising rural infrastructure including roads, irrigation, electrification, cold-chain and marketing outlets.

All existing irrigation projects will be completed within three to four years, while household electrification will be completed in five years, the document states.

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