Role of Project Development & Management Consultants in Urban Water Supply Projects under AMRUT 2.0.- A Review

Urbanization in India has accelerated at an unprecedented pace, creating exponential demand for sustainable and resilient infrastructure that can cater to the needs of growing urban populations. To address this challenge, the Government of India has launched several national programs, among which AMRUT 2.0 (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) plays a pivotal role in reshaping urban development strategies. Within this framework, Project Development and Management Consultants (PDMCs) emerge as key facilitators in bridging the gap between policy formulation and onground execution. Their responsibilities extend beyond traditional consultancy, encompassing holistic project planning, innovative design solutions, robust monitoring mechanisms, and streamlined implementation processes that align with time, cost, and quality parameters. Moreover, PDMCs contribute significantly to institutional strengthening and capacity building, thereby empowering Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to adopt modern project management practices and enhance service delivery standards. This review paper critically examines the evolving role of PDMCs in urban infrastructure delivery under AMRUT 2.0 by synthesizing insights from existing literature, government guidelines, and selected project case studies. It highlights the tangible impact of PDMC involvement on ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in project execution, while also identifying persistent challenges such as coordination gaps, capacity constraints, and resource limitations. Finally, the study outlines the scope for further strengthening PDMC engagement through innovative practices, technology integration, and policy interventions, thereby reinforcing their role as indispensable partners in achieving sustainable urban transformation in India.