Will smart cities project get a boost this Budget?
There is no doubt that 2015 will be the year of Smart Cities and kick-starting inclusive growth through these cities, all across the board in the country. Already in 2014, the government completed the identification of the proposed integrated townships, preferably two in every state, and the upcoming Budget will see the announcement of these plans. The government is involving different stakeholders, local authorities and even international investors and collaborators.
The idea of Smart Cities has been one of the most important projects on the government’s anvil. In fact, the government is basing its model of Smart Cities on places like Singapore and Barcelona. Ultimately, the focus should be on finding key satellite townships in India and working to their strengths.
The concept of Smart Cities involves the fostering of integrated townships, which can spur growth and be mutually beneficial with central business districts. Geographical proximity to CBDs ensures that resources can be shared and yet, efficient mass transit systems can lessen the burden of distances. A person can commute large distances for employment in a short span of time. Superior physical and infrastructure go a long way in making Smart Cities superior. In general, the idea of Smart Cities involves empowering hinterlands and places that are not urbanized, enabling them to reap the benefits of growth.
Some of the factors that will give a huge shot in the arm to Smart Cities this year include:
Infrastructure and development
The government has introduced metros and SEZs all across India, including Jaipur, Bhubaneswar, Khurda and Faridabad. Shared highways, proximity to airports and better infrastructure can result in all-round development. The government’s new policy, which involves redressing time lapses in project sign-offs, is a huge step forward. Added to this, encouragement of shared industrial spaces serves as a nodal point for development, human resources and industry.
Waste management systems
Efficient water, electricity and waste management systems constitute the ‘smart’ in smart cities. Green buildings and energy efficient public utilities are important in a Smart City. Already, the DDA in Delhi is giving benefits for people constructing and purchasing green buildings and apartments. In fact, Singapore, Japan and America are willing to help India’s dream of smart cities.
A smart city uses technology to run itself and does a good job in managing resources prudently.
Superior technology
This is the biggest strength and prerequisite of a smart city. Scalable technologies that can manage traffic, public transport, water distribution and waste disposal are much needed in a Smart City.
Affordable housing
This is the most important purpose of a smart city and its corner stone. Indian cities are saturated, with exorbitant housing prices, overvalued property and congestion. Smart Cities can make affordable housing a reality. Availability of urban land is constrained in the major cities. Smart Cities can address the huge gap of affordable housing in the country. Indian cities have a shortage of at least 1.8 crore houses, according to the Technical Group study on Urban Housing shortage 2012.
It is unrealistic to expect the quality of a Smart City like Singapore in India. However, it is important to make the best use of what we already have. Using sensors to manage water, constructing smart homes and ensuring a better quality of life in a streamlined, smart manner is essential.
There is no doubt that 2015 will see a huge boost in Smart Cities. The upcoming Budget is expected to focus on this subject. Already, the government is experimenting with the idea of Smart Cities, with the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, the Smart City in Kochi in Kerala and with Japan’s interest in turning Varanasi into a Smart City. Aurangabad, Ajmer and Visakhapatnam are also on the cards.
