Ulhasnagar Turns to CSR Funds for a Citywide Beautification Drive

ULHASNAGAR (India CSR): Ulhasnagar is set to undergo a remarkable transformation with the support of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions. Facing financial constraints, the Ulhasnagar Municipal Corporation (UMC) has turned to private banks, businesses, and real estate developers to fund a citywide beautification drive. The initiative, led by Commissioner and Administrator Manisha Awhale, aims to enhance the city’s roads, gardens, public squares, and schools, creating a cleaner, more vibrant environment for residents.

To bring this vision to life, Awhale held a meeting on February 23 with representatives from private banks, Century Company, local businesses, and developers, urging them to support the initiative under their CSR commitments. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with corporate stakeholders pledging their support for the project.

By leveraging CSR funds, Ulhasnagar aims to revamp its infrastructure, public spaces, and urban aesthetics—all while strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors for sustainable city development.

The Role of CSR in Urban Development

CSR funds have become a critical tool in addressing urban development challenges. Indian companies with a net profit of over Rs 5 crore are required to allocate at least 2% of their average net profits towards CSR activities. These funds often support education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure development.

For Ulhasnagar, utilizing CSR funds for beautification serves a dual purpose—enhancing public spaces while strengthening corporate-community engagement. With private entities stepping in, the initiative ensures that much-needed urban projects do not remain stalled due to budget constraints.

Strategic Plans for City Beautification

Commissioner Awhale has outlined a comprehensive beautification strategy, focusing on:

1. Road Revamp: Enhancing major thoroughfares with greenery, signage, and better road surfaces.
2. Garden Restoration: Improving parks and playgrounds to provide recreational spaces for families.
3. School Infrastructure: Upgrading public schools with CSR-backed infrastructure improvements.
4. Intersection Makeover: Revitalizing key traffic junctions with aesthetic enhancements.

The move aligns with Awhale’s broader mission of improving cleanliness, infrastructure, and municipal efficiency since assuming office last month.

Encouraging Civic Participation and Revenue Growth

Apart from CSR-backed beautification, UMC has introduced a special amnesty scheme for long-pending property tax payments. This initiative allows residents to clear their dues without penalties, helping the civic body generate additional revenue for development projects.

By combining CSR funding and improved tax collection, Ulhasnagar aims to create a self-sustaining model for urban development—where both private enterprises and citizens contribute to the city’s progress.

A Step Towards Sustainable Urban Growth

With corporate stakeholders backing the plan, Ulhasnagar is set to witness a transformation that enhances quality of life, environmental sustainability, and civic aesthetics. The initiative sets an example for other municipalities looking to leverage CSR for public welfare.

As companies step up their role in community development, this partnership between the public and private sectors could serve as a blueprint for urban renewal across India.

(India CSR)