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AUSP

AUSP

Project Overview

India is undergoing rapid urbanization, with the urban population projected to reach 38.2% by 2036. However, urban infrastructure in many parts of the country, including Assam, remains inadequate.

Assam has a low urbanization rate of 14.3%, and its urban local bodies (ULBs) face significant challenges:

Limited and outdated water supply systems, serving only a fraction of the population.
No centralized sewerage systems, and unsafe sanitation practices.
Stormwater drainage covers only 30% of urban areas, causing frequent floods.
High vulnerability to climate change—more extreme rainfalls, floods, and droughts.
Very low municipal revenues and reliance on state grants due to minimal tax collection and user charges.

Recent efforts by the Government of Assam include:

Reforms in property tax assessment and collection.
Implementation of online payment systems and GIS-based property databases.
A 46% increase in tax revenue collection by FY2023 compared to FY2022.

The Assam Urban Sector Development Project (AUSDP) aims to tackle these critical issues by investing in sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient urban infrastructure, while supporting reforms for better governance and financial sustainability in ULBs.

Objectives

Improve urban infrastructure, especially in water supply and stormwater management.
Strengthen institutional capacity and support urban reforms for efficient service delivery.
Enhance climate resilience and environmental sustainability in project areas.
Empower women and marginalized groups through inclusive development strategies.
Establish a robust framework for integrated urban development in Assam.

Progress (as of December 2024)

Fact-finding mission conducted by ADB with Government of Assam.
Procurement activities initiated; bids published for multiple town water supply systems.
DPRs in various stages of preparation and submission.
Environmental and social safeguard documentation progressing.
Institutional arrangements (PMU & PIUs) being finalized.
Property tax reforms implemented, with 46% increase in FY2023 collections.
Gender and social inclusion planning in progress, with specific gender targets.

Project Components

Climate-Resilient Water Supply Systems
- 6 water treatment plants (72 MLD capacity) and 800 km of distribution network.
- Metered connections for ~78,000 households.
- Real-time monitoring via SCADA and performance-based service contracts.
Stormwater Management in Guwahati
- 8 km flood diversion channel and a 65,000 m³ retention pond.
- Upgraded pumping stations and drainage networks.
- Nature-based solutions and early warning systems.
Urban Reforms & Institutional Capacity Building
- Development of Assam State Institute for Urban Development (ASIUD).
- GIS-based property tax databases and digital service delivery platforms.
- Capacity development for staff and gender mainstreaming initiatives.