The Smart Cities Mission (SCM), a flagship initiative of the Indian government, has marked significant strides in transforming urban spaces across the nation. As of November 15, 2024, 48 out of the 100 cities under this mission have successfully completed over 90% of their planned projects. Thirteen cities have achieved a remarkable feat by completing all their designated smart city projects. The update was shared by the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, Tokhan Sahu, in a response to the Lok Sabha.
The vision of the SCM is to foster sustainable urban development through infrastructure modernization, technological integration, and improved public services. This ambitious project includes the installation of over 84,000 CCTV cameras to enhance safety and security in urban areas. Furthermore, a significant 713 kilometers of cycle tracks have been constructed to promote green transport and healthier lifestyles. Another notable achievement includes the completion of 1,740 kilometers of smart roads, providing better connectivity and reduced congestion. In addition to these infrastructure projects, the mission has seen the creation of 9,433 smart classrooms across 2,398 government schools, benefiting thousands of students with modern learning environments. Digital libraries, e-health centers, and health ATMs are also part of the transformation, with 41 libraries and 172 e-health centers set up to improve access to education and healthcare.
As of November 2024, the government has issued work orders for 8,066 projects, with a total value of Rs 1,64,669 crore. Remarkably, 91% of these projects have already been completed, totaling Rs 1,47,366 crore in value. The central government has released Rs 47,225 crore to the states and Union territories, with nearly 94% of this funding being utilized effectively. However, challenges remain in some areas. Delays in project completion can be attributed to legal issues, obtaining necessary clearances, land acquisition hurdles, and resource shortages, especially in smaller cities. Construction in difficult terrains, such as hilly areas, has also posed obstacles. Despite these setbacks, the progress under the Smart Cities Mission is commendable. It has paved the way for a cleaner, safer, and more efficient urban living experience, contributing to India’s long-term vision of modernizing its cities to meet future demands.