Union Cabinet has cleared 100 smart city projects. Apart from approving these 100 smart city projects, old housing projects initiated by previous government are also cleared by the Cabinet. 'Smart City' is an initiative by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take pressure off Indian metros. Ahead of his election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised 100 so-called smart cities by 2022 to help meet the rush. Many countries like the US, Spain, Singapore, etc have envisaged their interest in partnering with India in developing these smart cities.
US based Smart Cities Council, an industry coalition to advance smart city development and innovation, had reached agreement with Foundation of Infrastructure Research Studies Training President Pratap Padode to launch the India chapter. The Indian chapter would recruit smart cities experts in the country to develop a 'Readiness Guide for India', the Council said in a statement. The guide, will have local case studies, which would enable city leaders and urban planners to understand the comprehensive framework of a smart city and take actionable steps toward major city infrastructure improvements.
"India is the ideal location for a Smart Cities Council. We are proud to partner with entrepreneurs such as Pratap Padode along with Indian civil society, scientists and engineers to develop smart cities solutions," said Philip Bane, executive director of the Smart Cities Council. Globally, Smart Cities Council advises on equipping cities with tools and knowledge to cope with expanding populations, shrinking budgets and aging infrastructure. Its goal is to accelerate the growth of smart cities worldwide by providing city leaders with best practices and vendor-neutral guidance on technology, finance, policy and, citizen engagement.
Centre will be a facilitator with regard to smart cities and government will do the hand holding, Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu had told the industry promising all support in implementation of projects they identify. Smart Cities Council India, which has been formed to promote development of smart cities, will launch a guide to help urban planners understand the framework of smart city and take steps to improve city's infrastructure.
By Premji
