Top 10 Smart Cities in India: All You Need To Know
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In 2024, amidst the country’s vast population, a revolution is brewing in the form of smart cities in India. Likewise, the Indian government, state governments, and authorities are making this beautiful reality of smart cities a tangible truth across the country.
Home to 1.4 billion people and one of the oldest cultural civilizations, India is raising its cities. The mission focuses on developing 100 selected cities in the nation. We are listing 10 out of that big list for you to understand how the changes will impact your life.
What is a Smart City?
There is no clear definition of a smart city. It varies from region to region. In general, a smart city is considered smart when it has a balanced city structure, proper water storage & management, well-connected public transport services, social and economic balance, digital infrastructure, and sustainability.
Considering these mentioned points, we have come up with the below-mentioned list of 10 smart cities in India:
Bangalore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kolkata
Navi Mumbai
Pune
Ahmedabad
Jaipur
Lucknow
Indore
1. Bangalore
State: Karnataka
GDP: $352 billion
Everyone knows Bangalore as the Silicon Valley of India. But very few know that it is also popular as the Garden City of India. The well-planned city, with many green spaces and many public parks, has earned it the title.
Inaugurated in November 2022, Terminal 2, also known as the Garden Terminal, lives up to Bengaluru’s nickname, “Garden City.” This stunning terminal boasts a lagoon, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery, including outdoor gardens and hanging plants right at the check-in counters.
In December 2023, it received a prestigious UNESCO award, becoming the only Indian airport recognized among the “World’s Most Beautiful Airports” by Prix Versailles. Further embracing nature, Terminal 2 incorporates a unique 90-meter-wide forest belt with open-air walkways, allowing passengers to stroll through a mini-forest before reaching their gates.
Every cricket lover in India knows the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore. It is the first cricket stadium in the world to use solar panels to generate most of its electricity. The stadium’s “Go Green” initiative also includes a water purification plant and an aeration and drainage system to prevent wet outfield conditions.
A techie from Bangalore named Anand Malligavad rejuvenated several lakes in the city. His efforts to date have revived around 33 lakes. Bengaluru alone has 85% of the Karnataka state’s EV charging stations, which is 4,281 out of 5,700 in the entire state. These unique features make it the top contender of smart cities in India.
2. Delhi
Delhi
领英推荐
State: NA (Union territory of India)
GDP: $272.603 billion
Delhi’s smart city initiatives showcase how technology can enhance urban living, promoting sustainability, efficiency, and a better quality of life for all. The capital is at the forefront of the national mission of smart cities in India, with a range of innovative projects.
Delhi prioritizes e-governance, streamlining government services. Smart Grid technology manages energy use, and solar power projects contribute to a greener future. Additionally, a pan-city water management system ensures efficient water usage and wastewater treatment.
Urban mobility receives a boost with para-transit options like pelican crossings. Electric vehicle charging stations are being installed in parking areas, promoting eco-friendly travel. Not just that, traffic violations are monitored through e-surveillance, with e-challans issued for offenses. Smart bus stops and automated multi-level car parking further improve convenience and efficiency. Even, smart parking with sensors will help drivers find available spots quickly.
The most challenging task of waste management is being tackled easily by Delhi head-on. Automatic sewer cleaning machines maintain hygiene, while upgraded automated road cleaning equipment keeps streets spotless. Green waste gets a new lease on life as it’s converted into smart gas, a sustainable energy source. Public toilets are being transformed into smart public amenity centers, enhancing sanitation and user experience.
3. Hyderabad
State: Telangana
GDP: $175 billion
Hyderabad offers a unique blend of history, innovation, and a commitment to a greener future. It’s a prime example of how smart cities in India are creating a better quality of life for all. Renowned for its mouthwatering Biryani, Hyderabad is also a hub for smart city initiatives. The city hosts Amazon’s biggest office, with a capacity of 15,000 employees working at a time.
The government’s commitment to digital transformation simplifies life. Online property registrations, e-permits, and virtual civic services streamline bureaucracy, making real estate investment in Hyderabad easier than ever.
Hyderabad’s planners prioritize well-connected neighborhoods. The Outer Ring Road eases traffic flow, while the Hyderabad Metro revolutionizes public transport. This thoughtful approach boosts real estate value, attracting residents and investors alike.
Embracing the smart city vision, Hyderabad seamlessly integrates technology. Initiatives like Smart Parking, Intelligent Traffic Management, and Smart Waste Management optimize resources and create a more livable city. This focus on sustainability attracts property buyers seeking eco-friendly homes.
Hyderabad prioritizes environmental sustainability. Parks, green belts, and eco-friendly projects create a healthier, more conscious living environment. Developers are responding to buyer demand for eco-friendly features, integrating sustainability into new projects.
4. Kolkata
Kolkata
State: West Bengal
GDP: 150 Billion
Kolkata is known as the Cultural Capital of India. Rajarhat and New Town are the fastest-growing areas in Kolkata. Due to its rapid expansion, the Indian government has declared New Town as a Solar City and Smart Green City.
The New Town Green Smart City Corporation (NKGSCC) prioritizes renewable energy, with plans for canal-top solar plants and electric buses. Green building regulations ensure eco-friendly construction practices, and New Town has even been recognized for its award-winning green building projects.
New Town champions water conservation through rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment initiatives. This commitment to responsible resource management adds to the city’s green credentials.
Beyond sustainability, New Town excels in smart city initiatives. Their efforts have been recognized for achievements in smart waste disposal, clean city projects, and digitalization. Notably, New Town boasts India’s first Wi-Fi road connectivity, offering a 10.5 km Wi-Fi zone along a major arterial road.
Furthermore, the Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (HIDCO) plans to develop infrastructure like – drains, roads, water supply lines, sewerage lines, and majors in the city. The other key ongoing project is the Kolkata Siliguri Expressway. These ongoing projects and initiatives are making Kolkata one of the top smart cities in India.