bahrainthismonth.com | AUGUST 2025 INDIA IN BAHRAIN 46 Smart City Revolution India's As Bahrain looks towards developing Smart Cities, it can take inspiration from India, whose urban future is being reimagined through the Smart Cities Mission – a transformative initiative focused on technology, infrastructure and sustainability to improve quality of life and drive inclusive growth. India’s rapid urbanisation has created both opportunities and challenges. With nearly 35 percent of its population residing in urban areas (a figure expected to reach 40 percent by 2030), the country is under immense pressure to upgrade infrastructure, reduce congestion and enhance service delivery. In response, the Indian government launched the Smart Cities Mission in 2015, aimed at creating 100 citizenfriendly, tech-enabled cities that integrate digital technologies into the fabric of urban life. The Smart Cities Mission is not a one-sizefits-all approach. Instead, it encourages each participating city to develop its own unique vision, identity and strategy. These smart cities focus on core infrastructure, such as adequate water and electricity supply, efficient public transport, affordable housing, robust IT connectivity, e-governance and sustainable urban planning. A key component is the implementation of Area-Based Development (ABD), which improves existing infrastructure in select neighbourhoods to act as a model for other parts of the city. Technology is central to India’s smart city strategy. Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) have been established in most cities to monitor traffic, pollution, waste management, surveillance and emergency response in real time. These centres aggregate data from various municipal departments, allowing for faster decision-making and improved public safety. In cities like Pune, Surat and Bhopal, ICCCs have played a significant role in enhancing governance and public service delivery. Sustainability is another cornerstone. Smart cities prioritise renewable energy sources, energy-efficient buildings, rainwater harvesting and solid waste management systems. For example, Indore – known for its cleanliness – has adopted decentralised waste processing and rigorous recycling practices. Similarly, Bhubaneswar has incorporated smart lighting systems and green transport solutions to reduce its carbon footprint. The mission also promotes citizen participation. Through mobile apps, online portals and public consultations, residents are encouraged to contribute ideas and provide feedback. This people-centric model ensures that solutions are not only technologically sound but also socially inclusive. As of 2025, over 7,000 projects worth ₹1.8 lakh crore have been tendered under the mission, with many nearing completion. Cities are already witnessing improved traffic flow, better air quality, enhanced civic amenities and stronger disaster management protocols. Furthermore, the mission has catalysed public-private partnerships and encouraged innovation at the municipal level. India’s Smart Cities Mission is a visionary framework for how urban India can thrive in the 21st century. By aligning technology, sustainability and community engagement, the initiative lays the foundation for a smarter, more resilient and more liveable urban future.
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