Often, it’s the local municipalities that are at the forefront when it comes to responding to emergencies such as the Covid-19 pandemic. In order to effectively handle these crises, many of them have started using their Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) as war rooms for Covid-19 response, a move which has yielded significant results. These centres have been introduced under the Smart Cities Mission in India.
Integrated Command and Control Centres and Their Role
Of the 100 municipalities included in the Smart Cities Mission, 45 cities already have operational ICCCs. These command centres have a variety of responsibilities, including coordinating traffic management, surveillance, utilities, and grievance redressal. Originally not intended for this purpose, these centres have now taken on a new function – dealing with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The ICCCs are implementing a series of initiatives to tackle the spread of the virus. These include CCTV surveillance of public places for maintaining social distancing and monitoring public behaviour. They are also employing GIS mapping to track Covid-19 positive cases, and GPS tracking to monitor healthcare workers. Predictive analytics, specifically heat maps, provide critical data for virus containment strategies across various city zones.
Additional Covid-19 Response Strategies
Virtual training is being provided to doctors and healthcare professionals to keep them updated with the latest treatment protocols and safety guidelines. Real-time tracking of ambulances allows for quick emergency response, and efficient coordination of disinfection services ensures safety of public spaces. Furthermore, the ICCCs are providing medical services through video-conferencing, tele-counselling and tele-medicine, making healthcare more accessible during this trying time.
The Objective and Strategy of the Smart Cities Mission
Under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Government of India initiated the Smart Cities Mission, aiming to stimulate economic growth and enhance the quality of life of people. The mission envisions promoting cities with good infrastructure and a decent quality of life for its residents, a clean and sustainable environment, and the application of smart solutions for a better future.
One of the key strategies applied by the Mission is a pan-city initiative where at least one smart solution is applied city-wide. Moreover, these cities are developed step-by-step with the help of three models: retrofitting, redevelopment, and Greenfield.
Coverage, Duration and Finances of the Mission
The Smart Cities Mission spans across 100 cities for five years, from the financial year 2015-16 to 2019-20. It functions as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, highlighting the government’s commitment towards driving progress and growth in urban areas. This mission, standing at the intersection of local development and technological advancements, paves the way for creating smart outcomes for Indian citizens.
Last Modified: February 7, 2024