The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme initiated by the Government of India in June 2015. It aims to transform 100 cities across the country. The mission focuses on enhancing core infrastructure and creating a clean, sustainable environment. The objective is to ensure a decent quality of life for urban residents through innovative “Smart Solutions.”
Key Objectives of the SCM
The primary goals of the Smart Cities Mission include:
- Providing essential infrastructure for urban areas.
- Ensuring a clean and sustainable environment.
- Implementing smart solutions for urban management.
- Promoting sustainable and inclusive development.
- Developing compact urban areas.
- Creating a replicable model for other cities.
Components of the Smart Cities Mission
The SCM comprises several components aimed at urban development:
- Area-Based Development: This includes:
- Redevelopment: Upgrading existing urban areas, e.g., Bhendi Bazar in Mumbai.
- Retrofitting: Enhancing infrastructure for efficiency, e.g., Local Area Development in Ahmedabad.
- Greenfield Projects: Establishing new urban areas focused on sustainability, e.g., New Town in Kolkata.
- Pan-City Solutions: Implementing ICT solutions across sectors like e-governance, waste management, and urban mobility.
Governance Structure of SCM
A new governance model was introduced to improve SCM effectiveness. It includes the establishment of a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Companies Act, 2013. This SPV is typically led by a bureaucrat or a representative from a multinational corporation.
Current Status of the Smart Cities Mission
Initially set for completion by 2020, the SCM has faced extensions. The current deadline is June 2024. Funding is primarily structured through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
Related Government Initiatives
Several initiatives complement the Smart Cities Mission:
- Atal Mission for Urban Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT).
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U).
- Climate Smart Cities Assessment Framework 2.0.
- The Urban Learning Internship Program (TULIP).
Definition of a Smart City
The term ‘Smart City’ gained traction post-2009 financial crisis. It refers to urban areas designed with advanced ICT integration. In India, a Smart City is one that plans effectively to meet its aspirations sustainably while promoting good governance principles.
Evolution of Smart Cities
Before 2009, cities were primarily viewed as centres for commerce and culture. After the financial crisis, there was a shift towards leveraging ICT for urban efficiency and sustainability. This change was driven by the need for economic recovery and improved urban living.
Challenges Faced by the Smart City Mission
The SCM faces several challenges:
- Lack of Clarity: The definition of a smart city is ambiguous, complicating resource allocation.
- Top-Down Approach: Elected representatives have diminished roles, impacting democratic governance.
- Flawed City Selection Process: Competitive selection overlooks diverse urban realities.
- Inadequate Funding: The funding model is insufficient for the vast needs of urban development.
- Governance Structure Issues: The SPV model conflicts with the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act.
- Social Impact: Displacement of communities during project implementation disrupts urban life.
Recommendations for Strengthening SCM
To enhance the effectiveness of the Smart Cities Mission, several recommendations have been made:
- Governance and Implementation: Appoint a dedicated CEO with a fixed tenure and include MPs in advisory forums.
- Project Focus: Shift emphasis towards comprehensive pan-city projects to optimise resources.
- Capacity Building: Strengthen Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and provide central government assistance.
- Project Completion: Ensure timely execution of projects with active ministry involvement.
Achievements of the Smart Cities Mission
As of December 2024, the SCM has made progress:
- 91% of total projects have been completed.
- Investment of ₹1,47,704 crore has been made.
Key Initiatives and Milestones
Several important milestones include:
- Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCC): Operational in all 100 Smart Cities, improving city management.
- Public Safety: Installation of over 84,000 CCTV cameras for enhanced security.
- Water Supply Management: Monitoring of over 17,026 km of water supply systems.
- Solid Waste Management: Improved efficiency in over 66 cities with technology.
- Mobility Improvements: Construction of 1,740 km of smart roads and 713 km of cycle tracks.
- Education and Health Initiatives: Development of smart classrooms and e-health centres.
Adapting to Emerging Needs
In response to challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, the SCM has launched initiatives such as:
- Cycles4Change: Promoting cycling and active living.
- Streets4People: Enhancing access to public spaces.
- Nurturing Neighbourhoods Challenge: Focusing on vulnerable groups.
Strategies for Smart City Development
The Smart Cities Mission promotes local area development through:
- Area-Based Development (ABD): Each city selects a specific area for targeted interventions.
- Pan-City Initiatives: Technology-driven solutions that benefit the entire city.
Special Considerations for North Eastern States
In North Eastern and Himalayan states, the development area requirements are halved to accommodate regional challenges. This approach ensures that urban development is tailored to local contexts.
Future Directions for the SCM
The Smart Cities Mission continues to evolve. It aims to integrate emerging technologies and address urban challenges. The focus remains on improving the quality of urban life and creating sustainable, inclusive cities.
