The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry announced on Thursday that over 600 kilometers of cycle tracks have been successfully implemented in 100 smart cities. Furthermore, the installation of over 76,000 CCTV surveillance cameras aims to bolster security measures. As part of the Smart Cities Mission, the ministry highlighted the establishment of 6,855 “smart classrooms” and 40 digital libraries, in addition to the deployment of over 50 lakh solar and LED streetlights. Notably, 89,000 kilometers of underground electricity cabling have been accomplished.
Under the initiative, special purpose vehicles in these 100 cities are actively working on approximately 8,000 multi-sectoral projects, collectively valued at over INR 1.7 lakh crore. As of January 15, 6,650 projects, amounting to INR 1.32 lakh crore, have already been successfully completed, aligning with the mission’s impending deadline set for June of this year.
Mission Director Kunal Kumar, addressing the Smart Cities India Expo, emphasized the positive impact of integrating intelligent traffic management systems with surveillance systems on road safety. The deployment of over 76,000 CCTV cameras in smart cities has proven effective in crime monitoring, he noted. Urban mobility enhancements include the completion of around 1,300 smart mobility projects, with an additional 383 projects nearing completion.
The ministry reported a substantial investment exceeding INR 40,000 crore in these smart mobility projects. A notable achievement is the development of over 2,500 kilometers of smart roads, incorporating universal accessibility, utility ducts, and proper signage. The focus on sustainable transportation is evident with the procurement of over 7,500 new buses, including 2,000 electric buses, and the establishment of 600 kilometers of cycle tracks in the designated smart cities.
Economic infrastructure projects also took center stage, with 674 completed and an additional 263 under implementation. This strategic move is anticipated to position smart cities as growth hubs, attracting investments and fostering job creation through initiatives such as start-up incubation centers and market redevelopment projects.
