The “Smart Cities Mission” was launched by PM Narendra Modi on 25th June 2015 across India.
It is an Urban Renewal and Retrofitting programme proposed with the intention of developing smart cities across the country to increase the standard of living for the urban dwellers of India and make it more sustainable.
One hundred cities were selected based on the Smart Cities Challenge, a nationwide competition to obtain the benefits of this mission. Each selected city is to create a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), overlooked by a full-time CEO to implement the projects under this programme. Central and state governments are to provide 1,000 crore ( US$130 Million ) funding to the company to implement the projects under this mission.
The first batch of 20 cities selected in the first round were known as the 20 Lighthouse cities. These got funding of 200 Crore each during the first financial year and an additional 100 crore per year after during the next three years. Lighthouse cities are as listed – Bhubaneswar, Pune, Jaipur, Surat, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Jabalpur, Visakhapatnam, Solapur, Davangere, Indore, New Delhi, Coimbatore, Kakinada, Belagavi, Udaipur, Guwahati, Chennai, Ludhiana, Bhopal.
These 20 spearheaded the development process with the focus on sustainable and inclusive solutions looking at compact areas and creating replicable models which act as a “lighthouse” to other aspiring cities.
What is a Smart City?
A Smart City has multiple definitions depending on the geographic location, socio-economic resources and culture of that particular country. The Indian picture of an intelligent city that this mission is based on is a growth in infrastructure and services that provide for the needs of the citizens. Urban Planners thus, would aim to develop the four main facets of development, namely – institutional, physical, social and economic infrastructure.
The core infrastructure in a smart city would include:
- Assured electric and water supply
- Solid waste management solutions and sanitation facilities
- Efficient public transportation and pedestrian mobility.
- Affordable housing, especially for the economically weaker sections of society.
- Digitalisation with IT connectivity
- Good e-governance and citizen participation
- Sustainable environment
- Safety and Security of citizens, especially women, children and the elderly.
- Health and education facilities
Key Features:
- Smart Infrastructure: The heart of any smart city lies in its infrastructure. The project focuses on developing intelligent and interconnected systems for transportation, energy, water supply, and waste management. This includes the implementation of smart grids, efficient public transportation systems, and the integration of renewable energy sources.
- Digital Governance: To streamline administrative processes and improve citizen services, the Smart Cities project emphasizes the use of technology in governance. Online platforms and mobile applications enable citizens to access public services, participate in decision-making, and contribute to the development of their cities.
- Safety and Security: Ensuring the safety of citizens is a top priority. Smart surveillance systems, emergency response mechanisms, and integrated command centers are being implemented to enhance the overall security of the cities. These technologies not only respond to crises more effectively but also act as deterrents, making cities safer places to live.
- Sustainable Urban Development: Environmental sustainability is a key focus of the Smart Cities project. The incorporation of green spaces, waste-to-energy initiatives, and eco-friendly urban planning contribute to creating cities that are not only technologically advanced but also environmentally responsible.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The project leverages the power of data analytics to make informed decisions. By collecting and analyzing data from various sources, city authorities can gain valuable insights into patterns, trends, and citizen behaviours. This data-driven approach allows for more efficient resource allocation and planning.
Challenges and Criticisms:
While the Smart Cities project has garnered widespread support, it has also faced its share of challenges. Some critics argue that the focus on technology may lead to exclusion, leaving behind marginalized communities that lack access to digital resources. Additionally, the scale and complexity of urban transformation require careful planning and execution, and delays in project implementation have been a point of concern.
Conclusion:
India’s Smart Cities project represents a bold and forward-thinking approach to urban development. By integrating technology into the fabric of city life, India aims to create more livable, efficient, and sustainable urban spaces for its growing population. As the project continues to unfold, it is essential to address challenges and ensure that the benefits of smart cities are accessible to all citizens, fostering inclusive and equitable growth. The journey towards smarter cities is not just a technological endeavour but a commitment to shaping a better future for generations to come.
However, the success of such projects often depends on practical implementation, community engagement, and adaptability to evolving needs. It would be interesting to see how these smart cities evolve and contribute to the overall development of urban areas in India.
