What is the Smart City Mission

The Smart City Mission (SCM) is a significant initiative by the Government of India aimed at transforming urban areas into smart, sustainable, and citizen-friendly cities. The mission, launched in June 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focuses on making cities more efficient, technologically advanced, and responsive to the needs of their residents. The primary goal of the mission is to improve the quality of life for citizens through the use of digital technology, better infrastructure, and an emphasis on sustainability. The Smart City Mission envisions cities that are not only technologically advanced but also environmentally friendly, economically viable, and socially inclusive. By using innovative solutions, cities can become better equipped to handle challenges such as rapid urbanization, environmental degradation, and inefficiencies in service delivery. Main Objectives of the Smart City Mission

Improved Infrastructure The mission aims to enhance urban infrastructure, including better roads, public transport, sewage systems, water supply, waste management, and green spaces. Sustainability Focus on creating energy-efficient solutions, using renewable energy, and reducing carbon footprints. Technological Integration Implementing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve governance, public services, and the overall citizen experience. This includes smart traffic management, e-governance, and better delivery of municipal services. Citizen Participation The Smart City Mission emphasizes the involvement of citizens in decision-making processes, ensuring that the transformation is in line with the needs and aspirations of the people. Economic Growth Promoting economic growth through infrastructure development, ease of doing business, and creating job opportunities, thus ensuring that the city attracts investments. Quality of Life Improving the living standards of residents by providing clean air, clean water, and access to health, education, and recreational spaces. Smart City Mission in Uttar Pradesh Among the states selected for the Smart City Mission, Uttar Pradesh (UP) has several cities that have been identified as key beneficiaries. Eastern Uttar Pradesh, in particular, has seen a focus on cities such as Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj, which have been selected for urban transformation under this mission. The Smart City Mission aims to address the unique challenges of these cities, which include inadequate infrastructure, poor waste management systems, pollution, and lack of modern amenities. Below, we explore the main characteristics of some of the cities of Eastern Uttar Pradesh that have been selected under the Smart City Mission.

Varanasi Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and a significant cultural and religious center, is a prime candidate for the Smart City Mission. It is a major urban hub for Eastern Uttar Pradesh, attracting millions of tourists every year, especially pilgrims. However, the city faces several challenges related to its growing population, poor infrastructure, and inadequate services. Key Characteristics of Varanasi Under the Smart City Mission 

Infrastructure Development 

A major focus has been on upgrading the city’s infrastructure, including better roads, transportation systems, and public amenities. Key projects include the development of modern bus terminals, multi-modal transport systems, and upgraded roads around the ghats to improve both aesthetics and accessibility. Ganga Riverfront Development Given its religious significance, the Ganga Riverfront is one of the most important areas in Varanasi. The Smart City Mission has focused on beautifying and modernizing the ghats, ensuring better waste management systems, and reducing pollution in the river. Technology Integration Varanasi is focusing on using technology for improving governance and public service delivery. Initiatives such as smart street lighting, surveillance cameras for enhanced security, and digital platforms for citizen engagement are being rolled out. Waste Management and Pollution Control Addressing the city’s growing waste problem and air pollution is a top priority. The implementation of modern waste management systems and promoting waste-to-energy projects is part of the initiative to make Varanasi cleaner and greener. Tourism and Economic Growth Varanasi is leveraging its religious and cultural heritage to boost tourism while improving economic opportunities for residents. Upgraded infrastructure aims to make the city more tourist-friendly and economically vibrant. Gorakhpur Gorakhpur is another important city in Eastern Uttar Pradesh that has been selected for the Smart City Mission. Known for its religious significance and as a major educational and industrial hub, Gorakhpur faces urbanization challenges similar to many other growing cities in India. Key Characteristics of Gorakhpur Under the Smart City Mission Urban Planning Gorakhpur’s development under the Smart City Mission focuses on improving urban planning. This includes developing better roads, drainage systems, and ensuring that the city’s growth is in line with sustainable practices. Public Transport System One of the key elements of the mission for Gorakhpur is to enhance the public transport system. The city is working towards introducing better bus services, cycling tracks, and pedestrian-friendly pathways to reduce traffic congestion. 

Healthcare and Education 

Gorakhpur is focusing on enhancing the healthcare and education infrastructure to improve the quality of life for its residents. Upgraded health centers and educational institutions are a part of the city’s modernization agenda. Smart Utilities and Services The city is implementing smart water supply and waste management systems, along with the use of ICT for improved service delivery and citizen engagement. Economic Development The Smart City Mission also aims to enhance Gorakhpur’s industrial and economic potential, promoting local businesses and creating job opportunities for its youth. Prayagraj Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is one of the most important cities in Uttar Pradesh, known for its historical, cultural, and religious significance. The city is an important administrative and educational center, but it also faces issues related to urbanization, infrastructure, and public services. Key Characteristics of Prayagraj Under the Smart City Mission Riverfront Development Similar to Varanasi, Prayagraj has a focus on riverfront development, especially along the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Efforts to clean the rivers, promote tourism, and create recreational spaces along the riverbanks are part of the city’s smart city plans. Transportation and Connectivity Prayagraj is improving its transportation infrastructure by introducing smart traffic management systems, upgrading the road network, and enhancing connectivity within the city and with other regions. Public Services The city is working towards improving essential services such as water supply, sewage treatment, waste management, and solid waste disposal, all using technology to improve efficiency. Sustainability Initiatives Prayagraj is focusing on adopting environmentally sustainable practices, including rainwater harvesting, green spaces, and promoting renewable energy projects to reduce its carbon footprint. Cultural and Tourist Hub With its religious and cultural heritage, Prayagraj is positioning itself as a major tourism hub. The Smart City Mission seeks to enhance the city’s infrastructure to accommodate millions of visitors, making it a safer and more enjoyable place for pilgrims and tourists alike. The Smart City Mission represents a transformative approach to urban development, aiming to address the challenges faced by Indian cities through innovative, sustainable, and citizen-focused solutions. For cities in Eastern Uttar Pradesh like Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and Prayagraj, the mission holds the potential to bring about significant improvements in infrastructure, public services, and economic development. By focusing on technology, sustainability, and citizen engagement, these cities can become more livable, economically vibrant, and efficient. The success of the Smart City Mission in these cities will not only improve the quality of life for their residents but also contribute to India's broader goal of creating smart, sustainable urban environments across the country.