More public-private partnerships to build infrastructure urged

MUMBAI: Union Minister of State for Urban Development Deepa Dasmunshi called for more public-private partnerships in the urban infrastructure space today, claiming that such a model is necessary to create infrastructure.

"The government has received new proposals for infrastructure projects and we are also approving them. However, what is lacking today is interest from the private sector, which is necessary for creating better infrastructure," Dasmunshi said at an event organised by the Indian Merchants' Chamber.

There are many sectors including water, waste management and transport, among others where private participation is necessary for development, she said.

"The government has funds, but when private players participate, they also bring funds. Besides, public-private partnership is also a job-oriented model where people get employment in various infrastructure projects," Dasmunshi said.

She also emphasised the need to create small townships near mega-cities to reduce the burden on infrastructure in these cities.

She said that the second phase of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) would focus on mega-cities and small towns.

"We provide approvals as well as funds for major projects, but what takes time is land acquisition, which is a state subject. States have to deal with with the public. Due to these delays, costs are bound to escalate, which makes it very difficult for us to fund," she said, speaking about infrastructure projects getting delayed.