The Smart Cities Mission has been instrumental in addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, and we are optimistic about the positive impact it can have on the lives of citizens. Our recommendations focus on sustainable urban transformation, aiming to create resilient, inclusive, and technologically advanced urban spaces.
We envision Smart Cities in 2024 as hubs of innovation, where technology, governance, and environmental sustainability converge to create a holistic urban-experience. We are optimistic about the positive impact it can have on the lives of citizens.
Key recommendations lay out a SMART umbrella tool that can be used to streamline projects across cities and ensure milestones are reached in a sustained manner. This means, emphasizing upon what it means to be SMART, with each project and/or change built upon key fundamental parameters:
Specific: Undertaking infrastructural development that is specific enough to a city’s unique landscape and cultural factors.
Measurable: Creating task-specific milestones and performance trackers that measure the true progress of reforms.
Attainable: Setting detailed and viable objectives in place and gathering all the necessary resources to make sure all desired results are attained.
Relevant: Carrying out relevant developmental projects that are well-aligned and well-equipped to cater to India’s changing trajectory.
Timely: Monitoring city-wise progression in a proactive manner and comparing it with the original Smart Cities Mission blueprint, in order to make sure goals are being met in a timely manner.
Opportunities
People: Smart road infrastructure, powered by technologies like IoT and AI, is poised to alleviate traffic congestion, saving billions lost to fuel wastage annually. Furthermore, the deployment of air quality sensors strategically addresses health concerns and aids in expeditious troubleshooting.
Development: Smart cities involve holistic development, not just infrastructural but also in terms of policies and frameworks. The report outlines key government initiatives such as the National Urban Digital Mission, Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation, and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. These programs are vital in creating sustainable, green, and well-connected urban spaces. Additionally, global interest in India's smart city development is evident with commitments from countries like France and Italy, injecting substantial funds to support the growth of three Indian cities. These collaborations reflect the international recognition of India's efforts in creating modern, sustainable urban spaces.
Financial Impact: Smart cities contribute significantly to efficient resource management, resulting in substantial cost savings. The report highlights examples such as smart buildings, automation, and big data utilization, showcasing how these technologies not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
