Smart cities are a recent concept. They emphasise efficiency by introduction of ICT in planning, managing, and governing our cities, with active citizens´ participation. However, we must be careful that we are not jumping the gun. In terms of progression
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Transforming our cities
Cities that have a perfect socioeconomic set-up with an integrated technological base have become the need of the hour owing to the rapid pace of urbanisation. As India looks to develop 100 smart cities
Technology will play a significant role across various domains
Rakesh Kaul, Executive Director, leads the Smart Cities Initiative at PwC India. He highlights the opportunities and trends in this upcoming space and how the nation can capitalise on these opportunities.
The Future Indian City
There are different models for development of smart cities. Some bring together a centralisation of different functions, others emphasise on the focused development of certain key infrastructure.
Making smart cities safer
The foundation of any smart city is the safety of its citizens and resources. Components of a smart city can only work in tandem if its social and physical infrastructure is safeguarded from any threats, be it personal or natural.
Urban Renewal
Today, 70 per cent of our GDP comes from urban areas while the investment for urban development is only 0.70 per cent. Now, according to the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI) report, Indias urban population is projected to increase from 34 crore in 2008 to 59 crore in 2030
Doing more with less
Smart cities will encourage sustainable development. They will also help to optimise resources, to meet the demands of growing urban populations. These cities would also encourage usage of shared services among different utility functions.
Geosynthetics lowers carbon footprint
Dr K Rajagopal, a Professor of Civil Engineering at IIT Madras, has worked in several geosynthetics industries in India, and is an active member of the International Geosynthetics Society.
Concrete Plan!
The Modi Governments initiative to build all new highways using concrete in place of bitumen, has brought cheer to road sector experts as well as the cement industry. But contractors are worried about their future business prospects.
Geosynthetics on the move
The use of geosynthetics decreases initial construction cost and maintenance cost, increases the life and strength of the roads, which in turn decreases traffic congestion & saves fuel and reduces the carbon footprint.