NEWS – The Smart Cities Mission (SCM) under the Union Urban Development Ministry has been extended until March 31, 2025, aiming to further develop 100 cities across India.

HIGHLIGHTS

Mission Overview: Launched in June 2015, SCM selects cities through a competitive process to transform them into smart cities, fostering sustainable and inclusive development.

 Project Scope: Over 8,000 multi-sectoral projects are underway with an estimated investment of ₹1.6 lakh crore, focusing on infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life enhancements.

Project Progress: As of July 3, 2024, the 100 selected cities have completed 7,188 projects, constituting 90% of the total planned projects under the SCM.

Objectives of SCM: The mission aims to provide core infrastructure, clean environments, and apply smart solutions to improve citizens’ quality of life in urban areas.

Components of SCM:

• Area-based Development: Includes redevelopment, retrofitting, and greenfield projects to enhance urban infrastructure and amenities.
• Pan-City Solutions: Implementation of ICT solutions across sectors like e-governance, waste management, water management, and urban mobility.

Governance Structure: SCM operates through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) to streamline implementation and ensure effective management under a new governance model.

Funding and Partnerships: Originally envisaged with a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) approach, the SCM seeks to leverage private investments for sustainable urban development.

Current Status: Initially planned for completion by 2020, SCM has faced extensions, with the current deadline set for March 31, 2025, to achieve comprehensive urban transformation.