Business Standard 18.02.2010
Budget Wishlist: Urban Infrastructure |
| Business Standard / New Delhi February 18, 2010, 0:43 IST |
CEO-SPEAK
Atul Punj Chairman, Punj Lloyd
Encourage PPP projects
Development of a world-class urban infrastructure is extremely crucial, as India is now poised to host big ticket international events. We expect the government to encourage/ support public-private partnership (PPP) in the key mega projects.
We sincerely hope the Budget comes up with positive factors which will facilitate PPPs, joint ventures and collaborations. And, while the government is extending all possible support for the PPP, the industry should be able to finish projects on or before the deadlines.
CHAMBER SPEAK
FICCI The government should develop a robust inventory of infrastructure projects that can be offered to the industry. Complete project dossiers with all approvals should be offered through a competitive bidding route.
Also, with a view to ensuring low cost of raising capital for thrust area projects, tax exemption of income from investment in infrastructure and other projects under section 10(23G) be restored.
EXPERT VIEW
Amrit Pandurangi
India Leader for Infrastructure Practice PricewaterhouseCoopers
For every capital expenditure on new asset creation, there is a corresponding liability over the life of project for operations and maintenance. We suggest the government ensure adequate budgetary provision for proper operation and maintenance of urban assets in order to maintain service availability and quality.
