In Madhya Pradesh, work under the AMRUT scheme aimed at improving clean drinking water supply and sewerage systems is facing significant delays.

As of 18 May, around 15 districts have completed only about 55% of the work. Even major cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Gwalior are behind schedule, with progress not even reaching 70%.

The AMRUT scheme, which began on 1 October 2021, involves projects worth nearly ₹5,000 crore, which were supposed to be completed within five years.

However, delays have led to strict monitoring by the Urban Administration Commissioner, who is conducting monthly reviews of the projects.

Action has been taken against negligence, including notices issued to more than 20 contractor companies in the last three months. Some firms have even been blacklisted.

Additionally, more than 40 engineers have faced suspension or show-cause notices due to poor performance and delays.

On the other hand, some districts have shown better progress, with completion levels between 75% to 85%.

The government has also issued SOPs for contaminated water management and directed that project reviews be regularly uploaded on the e-Nagar Palika portal under the DLRMC section.

Many AMRUT projects are still pending approval in the Municipal Council (MIC), with works worth over ₹1,000 crore awaiting clearance.

Cities like Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, Burhanpur, and Sagar are also facing issues due to old water pipelines and drainage cross-connections.

One of the major reasons for delay is the lack of consensus in MIC meetings, often influenced by tender-related disputes, which is affecting urban development progress.