Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): A delegation from the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Association of India (CREDAI) Bhopal met Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Sunday, demanding a special redevelopment package for the city under the Urban Challenge Fund of Rs 1 lakh crore, as announced in the Union Budget 2025-26.

CREDAI Bhopal President Manoj Meek said that despite the devastation of the 1984 Bhopal gas tragedy, the city is yet to receive a comprehensive national redevelopment plan. Drawing comparisons with global cities like Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which were rebuilt post-World War II with dedicated reconstruction policies, Meek advocated for a similar approach for Bhopal.

“The Japan government developed these cities as ‘Peace City’ and ‘Sustainable Development Model’ making them symbols of economic, technological and urban development”, he said.

He said that Bhopal could be transformed into a model of sustainable development and urban growth, akin to Hiroshima’s transformation into a global economic hub. He urged that Union government’s policy priority and financial backing are essential for Bhopal’s progress to become a top-tier capital city under the 'Developed India 2047' plan.

Meeting highlights

* Special package for Bhopal from the Urban Challenge Fund.

* Central assistance for expansion of Bhopal Metro.

* Development of logistics hub in Bhopal with central support.

* Proposal for special green fund for protection of water bodies and green areas in Bhopal