UP reports on p 2,3,4,5&8

The concept can be a gamechanger for Uttar Pradesh if implemented in the spirit with which it was conceptualised. The Centre wants smart cities to be the engine of growth for economy.

The concept can be a boon for a state like Uttar Pradesh as the core infrastructure elements of a Smart City will include even small things like adequate water supply, 24x7 power supply, proper solid waste management and sanitation, well-planned urban transport like metro train and rapid transport system of buses and taxis.

Other facilities include proper road network, affordable houses for urban population especially the poor, e-governance, citizen participation, IT connectivity, safe environment for the children and the elderly.

According to official figures, 31% of India’s current population lives in urban areas contributing 63% of the country’s GDP (Census 2011). The government wants to create developed cities which can sustain economic development and promote high quality of civic life.

Smart cities may excel in all the primary areas like mobility, environment, standard of living, economic growth and prosperity.

According to experts, urbanisation is increasing and it cannot be stopped. There has to be smart development instead of unplanned growth. In the next 10 years, urban areas are expected to house 40% of India’s population and contribute 75% of India’s GDP.

There should be an extensive development of infrastructure of cities, civic services, rapid response system for any problems, and institutional, social and economic infrastructure.