Niti Aayog reveals underperformance of Guwahati Smart City
SMART CITIES

Niti Aayog reveals underperformance of Guwahati Smart City

Guwahati was selected as one of the initial 20 smart cities in the country, a key part of the ambitious Smart City programme initiated by the government to enhance living conditions in 100 towns and cities nationwide. However, recent evaluations by Niti Aayog have revealed a disappointing reality – Guwahati is among the least successful smart cities in the country. Out of a total of 185 projects, only nine projects worth a combined Rs 22.56 billion have been completed.

Niti Aayog's analysis highlights that Guwahati's underwhelming performance is not an isolated case. Several other cities in the Northeastern region, including Shillong, Aizawl, and Imphal, have faced challenges in making significant progress in their respective smart city initiatives. Similarly, municipalities like Amaravati, Diu, Greater Warangal, Kavaratti, Port Blair, and Puducherry are also struggling and rank among the lowest-performing urban areas.

The report also points out that 32 smart cities have exceeded their initial project completion targets, with some surpassing them by four times. Despite the difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as political, regional, and local land and labor issues, an impressive Rs 390.85 billion worth of projects were successfully completed nationwide in the past year.

The financial aspect of the Smart Cities Mission also displays positive trends. Funding provided by the Central Government increased from Rs 283.15 billion to Rs 348.87 billion by the end of 2022, showcasing a renewed commitment to accelerating the growth of smart cities.

Regarding Guwahati, the city received a financial grant of Rs 3.96 billion from the Ministry of Urban Development, which remained unused until 2022. The total financial plan for Guwahati's five-year Smart City project was set at Rs 22.56 billion, with expectations that both the Central Government and the state administration would each contribute Rs 5 billion. The remaining funds were anticipated to be generated through various means by urban local bodies, including user charges, beneficiary fees, land monetization, debts, and loans.

Guwahati was selected as one of the initial 20 smart cities in the country, a key part of the ambitious Smart City programme initiated by the government to enhance living conditions in 100 towns and cities nationwide. However, recent evaluations by Niti Aayog have revealed a disappointing reality – Guwahati is among the least successful smart cities in the country. Out of a total of 185 projects, only nine projects worth a combined Rs 22.56 billion have been completed.Niti Aayog's analysis highlights that Guwahati's underwhelming performance is not an isolated case. Several other cities in the Northeastern region, including Shillong, Aizawl, and Imphal, have faced challenges in making significant progress in their respective smart city initiatives. Similarly, municipalities like Amaravati, Diu, Greater Warangal, Kavaratti, Port Blair, and Puducherry are also struggling and rank among the lowest-performing urban areas.The report also points out that 32 smart cities have exceeded their initial project completion targets, with some surpassing them by four times. Despite the difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as political, regional, and local land and labor issues, an impressive Rs 390.85 billion worth of projects were successfully completed nationwide in the past year.The financial aspect of the Smart Cities Mission also displays positive trends. Funding provided by the Central Government increased from Rs 283.15 billion to Rs 348.87 billion by the end of 2022, showcasing a renewed commitment to accelerating the growth of smart cities.Regarding Guwahati, the city received a financial grant of Rs 3.96 billion from the Ministry of Urban Development, which remained unused until 2022. The total financial plan for Guwahati's five-year Smart City project was set at Rs 22.56 billion, with expectations that both the Central Government and the state administration would each contribute Rs 5 billion. The remaining funds were anticipated to be generated through various means by urban local bodies, including user charges, beneficiary fees, land monetization, debts, and loans.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

REC Transfers HVDC Project to Power Grid

REC Limited has successfully handed over the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for a High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission project to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL). This strategic move aligns with the nation's objectives to strengthen its power transmission network. Key Highlights: Project Overview: The HVDC project, under the inter-state transmission system (ISTS) initiative, is a critical component of India's push toward robust and efficient electricity transmission. It aims to handle bulk power transfer across long distances while ensuring minimal losses. Role of RE..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

NF Railway Collaborates with IIT Guwahati

The Northeast Frontier (NF) Railway has signed strategic Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with IIT Guwahati to foster technological advancements and improve railway operations in the region. This partnership focuses on innovative solutions to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability in rail infrastructure. Key Highlights: Purpose of MoUs: The collaboration aims to leverage IIT Guwahati's expertise in technology and research for implementing cutting-edge solutions across railway operations. Key areas of focus include: Automation and digitization in maintenance. Sustainability initiati..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Danapur Division Modernization Plans Revealed

The Railway Board has unveiled ambitious plans for the expansion and modernization of the Danapur Division, a critical hub under the East Central Railway. The initiative focuses on infrastructure development, enhanced passenger amenities, and operational efficiency. Key Highlights: Scope of Modernization: The Railway Board's blueprint emphasizes: Upgrading existing infrastructure to accommodate more passenger and freight traffic. Improving station facilities, such as platforms, waiting areas, and connectivity. Introducing advanced signal systems for safer and smoother operations. Freig..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000