India’s smart infrastructure revolution is focused on building sustainable cities for a greener future.
India is at a critical juncture in its journey towards becoming a global leader in sustainable urban development. With urbanization expected to add over 400 million people to its cities by 2050, India faces both a challenge and an opportunity: to build smarter, more sustainable infrastructure that can support this massive growth while enhancing quality of life. As India’s cities rapidly expand, the government, private sector, and technology leaders are working together to create an urban landscape that is efficient, resilient, and sustainable.
The rise of smart infrastructure is at the heart of India’s urban transformation. Unlike traditional infrastructure, which is often built to meet immediate needs without considering long-term sustainability, smart infrastructure integrates advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and renewable energy solutions. The goal is to optimise resource usage, improve efficiency, and address key environmental and economic challenges. Dr. Manvendra Deswal, Former Head of the Smart Cities Mission, describes smart infrastructure as “built around livability and sustainability.” He explains that for a country like India, focusing on resource efficiency and decarbonization is not just a choice—it’s essential. This vision is not only about technological advancement but also about ensuring that cities are built to be resilient in the face of climate change while offering improved living conditions for residents.
Central to India’s infrastructure overhaul is the transition to renewable energy. Currently, renewable sources make up 25% of the country’s energy mix, with plans for this number to rise significantly in the coming years. Prashant Mathur, CEO of Saatvik Solar, highlights innovations in cleantech such as robotic cleaning systems for solar panels and digital twin technologies that help optimise energy consumption. These technologies reduce reliance on fossil fuels and make energy systems more sustainable, which is key for urban infrastructure moving forward. Collaboration across sectors is also critical. Mathur emphasises that public and private stakeholders must work together to drive the adoption of renewable energy, ensuring that the infrastructure projects are not only feasible but also sustainable in the long term.
India’s airports, such as Noida International Airport, are becoming models of how smart infrastructure can be integrated into large-scale projects. Nicolas Schenk, Chief Development Officer at Noida International Airport, explains how live data systems are being used to optimise passenger flow and resource allocation. This kind of innovation doesn’t just improve functionality but significantly reduces energy consumption, contributing to the airport’s sustainability goals. Similarly, Raman Kapil, President & COO of Tata Projects, talks about creating “a seamless experience where sustainability, technology, and user needs converge.” Smarter buildings, energy-efficient systems, and better management of resources are all part of the larger vision for cities that prioritise quality of life, environmental sustainability, and technological integration.
While India’s smart infrastructure revolution is gaining momentum, there are still challenges to overcome. Knowledge gaps, resistance to change, and issues related to the interoperability of various technologies continue to pose hurdles. However, the rise of public-private partnerships (PPPs) provides a promising solution. Raghav Gupta, MD of Jakson Infra, notes that these partnerships bridge the gap between investment and implementation, encouraging innovation while meeting public needs. For the average citizen, the transition to smarter infrastructure promises tangible benefits. These include cleaner air, more efficient transport systems, and improved access to services like healthcare and education. Moreover, by embracing renewable energy and cleantech, cities can reduce their carbon footprints, contributing to a healthier environment. Residents will also benefit from more energy-efficient homes, lower utility costs, and greater access to green spaces and sustainable services.
India is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable urbanization. By integrating advanced technologies, prioritising renewable energy, and fostering collaboration across sectors, the country is shaping a future where cities are smarter, greener, and more livable. The vision is clear: India aims to create urban spaces where technology and sustainability go hand in hand to improve the lives of its citizens. As India continues to embrace this transformative journey, the smart infrastructure revolution promises to unlock immense potential for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and enhanced quality of life.
