Rapid urbanisation has driven Smart City development in India. Over 100 cities have joined the mission, with 91 per cent of 8,075 projects (Rs 1.47 lakh crore investment) completed as of December 2024.The construction sector is driving the shift toward a connected, sustainable society, shaping residential, commercial, and public spaces. Metro cities lead in redevelopment, optimising land use and tackling infrastructure challenges. A key aspect of this transformation is vertical transportation, with rising demand for advanced elevators as cities grow upward.Elevators are no longer known for convenience, but as a modern urban fabric for high-rise buildings. Recent projections estimate that the Indian elevator market is expected to reach approximately US$ 7.79 billion by 2030.The integration of new technology and mechanical components are not only for elevator safety but also an enhanced passenger experience. Modern elevators are equipped with sensors and cloud-based monitoring platforms to enable real-time data analysis. These systems can predict maintenance needs and reduce elevator downtime by up to 50 per cent for uninterrupted service in high-traffic environments.Similarly, the TWIN elevator system can operate two independent cars within a single shaft. It doubles capacity without the need for additional space. This design is especially beneficial in densely populated urban areas where optimising space becomes essential.The growth of the elevator industry is closely linked to broader economic development goals in India. Increased investments in urban infrastructure coupled with local manufacturing initiatives under the ‘Make in India’ campaign have boosted employment, innovation, and sustainability in the sector.Modern elevators can contribute to sustainable urban development – alongside innovation for the more functional (e.g., superior user experience) and visual (e.g., sleek design) aspects of vertical mobility, in contemporary cities. For example, the introduction of regenerative drives and LED lighting has reduced energy consumption and cut costs already.As India continues to build smarter, more connected cities, the role of advanced elevator systems will become highly prominent. Investments in cutting-edge technology, combined with a commitment to sustainable practices are necessary to help the overall equality of urban living and to support efficient mobility within buildings.