The authority has already begun the task of transforming 14 villages in the city. It has roped in a private agency which has begun conducting drone surveys of all 16 villages. Once the survey is completed, cost estimates for each village will be determined. The authority will tentatively spend Rs 1.60 billion on this project.

The move follows demands made by farmers to augment and amend civic amenities at these villages, in line with other sectors. The smart villages will be developed by the end of 2023. The drone survey will be completed in a month, paving way for the work to begin at sites, officials said.

The authority will initially develop roads, sewage networks, drains, piped drinking water facilities and community centres. The second phase will comprise building of libraries, sports grounds and beautification of ponds.

Existing works on 14 villages under the same smart village project are being conducted at a cost of Rs 1.50 billion. Around 50% work has been completed, officials said.