25% of the funds allocated to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation remain unutilized, highlighting issues in local governance and financial management.

Despite the construction of over 100 million toilets under the Swachh Bharat Mission, open defecation remains prevalent in India due to issues like missing subsidies, incomplete toilets, and lack of water. Investigations reveal that many rural and urban areas still lack proper sanitation facilities, contradicting government claims of being open defecation free. The article highlights the need for behavior change, better maintenance, and addressing social and caste biases to improve sanitation outcomes.

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is working towards making Ahmedabad malaria-free by 2022, aligning with the World Malaria Day theme 'Zero Malaria Starts With Me'. There has been a significant reduction in malaria cases, from 9,297 in 2017 to 5,156 in 2018. Dr Bhavin Solanki, in-charge medical officer of health at AMC, attributes some cases to relapses due to incomplete medication courses. AMC's year-round efforts include searching for breeding sites, fogging, and plans to introduce cold fogging machines and real-time monitoring gadgets. Penalties for residential units with breeding sites are also being considered.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has implemented several measures to combat the heatwave, including changing school timings and work hours for construction laborers, and distributing water and ORS packets at traffic booths and BRTS stops. The civic body is also enhancing greenery and making fountains functional. Despite receiving weather forecasts from the India Meteorological Department, the AMC finds them less accurate compared to data previously provided by Georgia Tech University.

City-based Dalit writer and poet Umesh Solanki celebrates Ambedkar Jayanti by releasing a new book annually, dedicating his works to Ambedkar. His first book, 'Ferfar', is a research-based novel, followed by a collection of poems titled 'Premkavyo'. His third book, 'Maati', contains life sketches of Dalits and Adivasis. Solanki's writings aim to depict a balanced view of life and the search for a better society. He sells his books exclusively at an open fair near Sarangpur water tank, with significant sales reported for his previous works.

Street vendors in Ahmedabad have been unable to operate for the past two months due to a lack of a hawker policy, leading to unrest and protests. Vendors, led by Ismail Qazi, claim harassment by the police and civic body, which they accuse of corruption and arbitrary enforcement of laws. Advocate Shamshad Pathan highlights the absence of a street vendors' policy despite multiple surveys. DCP Dharmendra Sharma cites traffic disruption as the reason for restricting vendors, while AMC's Amul Bhatt mentions the Model Code of Conduct as a barrier to forming a new policy. The state government has yet to frame a policy, leaving vendors in a precarious situation.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) plans to implement a ban on single-use plastic items starting May 1, 2019, following a United Nations resolution. The ban, delayed due to the General Election 2019, will affect items such as plastic spoons, forks, and plates, with a particular challenge in finding alternatives for plastic used in the dairy industry. The AMC had previously seized over 12,000 kg of banned plastic in June 2018, but some banned items continue to be used.

Ahmedabad's heritage properties will be marked with blue plaques to make UNESCO-recognized sites more distinct and easily identifiable. The initiative, led by the World Heritage City Trust of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, aims to enhance the visibility of heritage houses and monuments, making it easier for tourists to identify them without guides. The plaques, similar to those in London, will be engraved with specific details and come in two sizes for residential and institutional monuments. This move is expected to instill pride among property owners and further promote the city's heritage status.

Since April 2, 2019, Ahmedabad has reported 2,812 cases of heat-related illnesses, with abdominal pain and unconsciousness being the most common. The data was provided by 108 GVK Emergency Management and Research Institute. Health officials emphasize the importance of staying hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The Indian Meteorological Department forecasts a rise in temperature to around 41 degree Celsius by next week.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) faces a dilemma over the Pirana dumpsite after the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) requested an alternative solution to capping. The AMC had tasked Tata Consultancy Services with preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for capping one of the garbage hills, a task previously assigned to IL&FS. Harshad Solanki, director of Solid Waste Management, highlighted the challenges with bio-mining and electricity generation from waste. Additionally, the AMC is uncertain about implementing a ban on single-use plastics, with ongoing discussions with manufacturers and hotel associations.

Anaemia remains a significant health issue in Ahmedabad, with a survey by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation revealing that nearly 20% of children in Anganwadis and primary schools are anaemic. The survey, conducted under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram, highlights the vulnerability of children from financially poor backgrounds to malnutrition and anaemia. Despite efforts to provide supplementary food and tablets, the problem persists. Additionally, the survey found instances of obesity and poor eyesight among the children, attributed to poor nutrition and junk food consumption.

Ahmedabad is experiencing a significant swine flu outbreak with over 1,178 cases and 23 deaths since the start of the year. The north zone, particularly the Nikol ward, is the most affected area. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation's health department data indicates a pattern of rising cases every alternate year since the virus began circulating in the city in 2009. Dr. Bhavin Solanki, in-charge medical officer of health at AMC, notes that swine flu is now a seasonal flu, with cases spiking during seasonal changes. Currently, 3,572 patients have recovered, 422 are under treatment, and the total number of cases has reached 4,115 with a death toll of 121. The state reported 44 new cases and one death on the latest count, with Surat city and Ahmedabad city being the most affected after the north zone.

Tree plantation by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has decreased by 58% over eight years, with the number of saplings planted dropping from 202,755 in 2011-12 to 84,849 in 2018-19. The survival rate of these saplings is around 35%. Despite efforts to plant trees in open plots and slum areas, the central zone of the city, particularly the walled part, remains deficient in tree cover. Environmentalist Mahesh Pandya emphasized the adverse effects of reduced tree plantation, including increased air pollution and ecological imbalance, while officials like Jignesh Patel and Shahnawaz Shaikh highlighted the need for more tree cover and volunteer involvement.

Data analysis reveals that individuals aged 41 to 55 are most vulnerable to the H1N1 virus, with a 38% fatality rate among the afflicted. Since January, Ahmedabad has reported 1,178 swine flu cases and 23 deaths, with the highest number of cases in those aged 56 and above. Dr Bhavin Solanki emphasizes the need for vulnerable groups to take precautions and notes that many fatal cases involved co-morbid conditions. The state health department reports 50 new cases, with significant numbers in Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara.

Ahmedabad has seen a fourfold increase in dengue cases over the past five years, despite a decrease in mosquito density. Experts attribute this rise to more effective surveillance and diagnosis. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation's data shows a rise from 638 cases in 2014 to 3135 in 2018. Health officials have improved rapid testing and door-to-door surveillance, leading to more cases being detected. The Indian Institute of Public Health suggests that the inclusion of data from private hospitals and a rise in reporting units could also contribute to the higher figures.

Law Garden in Ahmedabad is set to receive a significant renovation after 24 years, with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation engaging private architects for the project's design and concept. The Kumar Mangaldas and Ashima groups are involved in the redesign, which aims to add more landscapes and attractions, enhancing the garden's aesthetic value. The redevelopment plan includes a 'happy street' that will provide parking and a night food street, with an investment of Rs 5.99 crore for street development. The standing committee chairman, Amul Bhatt, anticipates that the project will make the location the most happening place in the city.

Ahmedabad reported the second highest number of swine flu cases in February 2019, with 780 cases and 18 deaths, following a peak in 2015. Health officials predict a rise in cases post-monsoon due to seasonal changes and temperature variations. Dr Bhavin Solanki from AMC highlighted the impact of fluctuating temperatures on the virus's prevalence.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is set to install 100 air purifiers near the Pirana landfill to combat high pollution levels. This initiative is part of a broader plan submitted to the Gujarat Pollution Control Board to improve air quality. Additional measures include constructing wall-to-wall roads, mechanical road cleaning, and transitioning city buses to electric power. The AMC aims to run 1,000 electric buses within three years. Current pollution levels at Pirana are notably high, prompting these immediate actions.

The Pir Muhammad Shah Library in Ahmedabad, established over 250 years ago, houses a collection of more than 4,000 manuscripts in Arabic and Persian. It is a significant resource for history scholars and researchers, featuring rare documents such as a handwritten Quran by Aurangzeb and a unique 900-year-old book on astronomy by Al-Biruni. The library, located at the tomb-shrine complex of Sufi saint Pir Muhammad Shah, attracts more foreign visitors than locals due to its invaluable historical treasures.

Gujarat's first Metro Rail will commence operations after a delay, with trains running at 30-minute intervals across six stations in the East-West corridor of Ahmedabad Metro's first phase. Initially, two trains will operate, with a third expected by May. The North-South corridor will follow, with work expected to complete by August-September. The second phase, connecting Ahmedabad to Gandhinagar, has been approved and will feature 24 stations, funded by a mix of international loans and equity from the Centre and Gujarat government.

Swine flu cases in Ahmedabad show a trend of peaking every alternate year, with a spike in 2017 and a dip in 2018, starting from 2013. Dr Bhavin Solanki of the AMC notes that the peaks correlate with seasonal changes, particularly during colder months. The city has reported 376 cases and eight deaths this year, prompting the AMC to ensure hospitals are well-equipped and to conduct surveys, identifying the west zone and south-west zone as the most affected areas. Two central government teams are inspecting the situation, having visited Nikol and Jodhpur localities.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has submitted a comprehensive air pollution control plan to the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) in response to rising PM2.5 and PM10 levels. The plan includes both short-term and long-term measures, such as automated road cleaning, stricter regulations for construction sites, phasing out old diesel vehicles, and enhancing CNG infrastructure. The AMC also plans to develop green buffer zones and natural air filters, and has prepared educational materials for the public. Eight monitoring stations will provide continuous air quality data and forecasts.

The draft budget for the next fiscal presented by municipal commissioner Vijay Nehra emphasizes the development of multiple sports facilities in Ahmedabad, including the world's largest cricket stadium and new sports complexes. The budget proposes Rs 10 crore for two new sports complexes and the establishment of the Ahmedabad Sports Promotion Foundation to train athletes with international coaches. Additional projects include the construction of tennis courts, gymnasium facilities, and swimming pools, with significant investments aimed at enhancing the city's sports infrastructure.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation plans to upgrade 72 existing health centers into 'smart' health centers under the Smart City Project, with a budget of Rs 23 crore. These centers will feature computerized administration, Hospital Information System (HIS), and telemedication facilities. The initiative aims to streamline healthcare services and improve patient record management. However, the Congress party criticizes the project, citing past failures in execution and a lack of specialists in the centers.

Ahmedabad's upcoming metro rail system will lack parking facilities at approximately 60% of its stations. Starting March 2019, the metro will operate between six stations on the east-west corridor, with only two offering parking. GMRC's managing director, IP Gautam, mentioned the possibility of involving private players for parking management and the purchase of a large space for Rs 10 crore. Professor HM Shivanand Swamy from CEPT University emphasized the critical nature of managing parking for urban mobility.

Mysterious foam emerged from a bore-well in Ahmedabad, causing concern among residents. The foam, resulting from chemicals used in land softening for metro tunnel excavation, was deemed eco-friendly and non-harmful. The Gujarat Metro Rail Corporation (GMRC) plans to conduct a fresh survey to identify bore-wells and underground infrastructure to prevent future incidents. Local councillor Iqbal Shikh and GMRC's chief general manager Amit Gupta provided reassurances and outlined steps to address the issue.

Work on the East-West corridor of the Metro-Link Express for Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad (MEGA) is progressing, with 4 km of the tunnel completed. The project, which began in May, aims to finish by 2020. Expensive Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) are being used to expedite the process, and measures are being taken to monitor and mitigate the impact on the earth and surrounding structures. The tunnel has crossed Kalupur railway station, and precautions are being taken to protect against dampening and to ensure the safety of heritage structures along the route.

The Metro-Express Link for Gandhinagar Ahmedabad (MEGA) is set to open for public use by March 2019, with a trial run inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 17, 2019. Despite potential delays due to a tsunami in Indonesia, the first three train coaches, shipped from South Korea, are expected to arrive on schedule. The first phase will include 32 trains running between six stations. The Research Design and Standards Organization will conduct further inspections before the metro is cleared for public commutation.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation is carefully dismantling the damaged minaret of the 460-year-old Ek Toda mosque, which was struck by lightning last monsoon. The process involves taking down the structure brick by brick to preserve its heritage value. The civic body has identified and coded each brick and stone to ensure the structure can be restored to its original state in the future. Despite the challenges posed by the unique construction materials, the corporation has already spent around Rs 15 lakh on the project.

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation will auction three private properties in early January to recover overdue property taxes. The civic body, owed around Rs 2,500 crore by tax defaulters, has decided to auction properties starting with three valued at approximately Rs 25 crore. The auction will take place on January 2 and 3, 2019, with bids invited online. Defaulters can pay their dues until January 1, 2019, to avoid the auction. One of the properties to be auctioned is the Saheli party plot in Memnagar.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has not complied with a state government order from the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department to form area committees. These committees, which include various community representatives, are intended to address local needs and contribute to the annual budget. Congress councillor Shahnawaz Shaikh has raised concerns about the lack of local representation in the budget process and has called for the formation of area committees in all 48 wards of the city. The views of mayor Bijal Patel and standing committee chairman Amul Bhatt are being sought.

Two engineering graduates from Ahmedabad, Yash Bhatt and Arjun Thakkar, have initiated a project to recycle flower waste from temples into organic compost, rose water, and incense sticks. Their startup, Brook and Blooms, currently collects flower waste from 55 temples and has developed a compost machine capable of producing 120-150 kg of organic compost from 1000 kg of waste. Manvita Baradi from the Urban Management Centre emphasizes the importance of efficient waste segregation and recycling to minimize residue.

Local civic authorities in Ahmedabad, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fitness mantra, plan to prioritize sports and fitness by constructing tennis courts in each city zone. Amul Bhatt, chairman of the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), announced the initiative, which includes additional swimming pools and gymnasiums. The AMC aims to provide affordable sports facilities, contrasting with expensive private options. Hitesh Contractor, city engineer, is tasked with identifying suitable locations for these courts. The initiative has received positive feedback from residents like Mehul Bhatt.

Medical experts in Ahmedabad observed a shift in the peak of swine flu cases from winter to monsoon, based on data from the last two years. Dr Sanket Patel noted this unexpected trend in a paper analyzing the outbreak in the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation area in 2017-18. The city recorded significant cases and deaths in 2009 and 2010, with a change in pattern since 2012, reporting cases year-round. Dr Bhavin Solanki highlighted an antigen shift, resulting in more cases during monsoon. Data from the past five years showed two major outbreaks in 2015 and 2017, with a minor one in 2013, indicating a possible shift in seasonality.

Starting Sunday, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) will enforce waste segregation at the source, in line with Swachh Survekshan 2019 guidelines. Unsegregated waste will not be collected. The initiative, which failed two months after its launch on World Environment Day 2017, is now reinforced with 40,000 staff and NGO workers spreading awareness. AMC's Solid Waste Management director, Harshad Solanki, announced separate collections for sanitary napkins and diapers, with plans for incineration plants and vending machines selling pads for one rupee. However, residents like Rupali Vijh face challenges with the new system, citing irregular collection services.

Ten days after the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation implemented waste segregation at source, less segregated waste is being received from the walled areas of the city compared to other areas. The Refuse Transfer Stations in Khadia and Rakhial, which serve the walled city, mostly receive domestic waste that requires further segregation. Despite this, the overall collection of dry waste in the city has improved, with daily collections increasing from 9 tonnes to 163 tonnes since the initiative began.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) aims to reduce the daily waste dumped at the Pirana site by 200 metric tonnes through a waste segregation drive starting December 2, 2018. Currently, AMC collects around 3,700 metric tonnes of solid waste daily, with 1,900 metric tonnes being recycled. The initiative involves educating citizens to segregate waste at the source, with 40,000 AMC workers participating in the drive. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Mukesh Gandhvi and Mayor Bijal Patel are key figures in promoting and implementing this plan.

An HIV+ woman, abandoned by her husband and family during pregnancy, has become a counselor and advocate for AIDS awareness, having counseled over 3,500 people in Ahmedabad. Despite initial rejection, she reunited with her husband after he tested positive for HIV. She now works to educate orphan children and support widows, with the support of the AIDS Control Society.