
Pune has successfully completed all 55 sanctioned projects under the Smart Cities Mission, amounting to an investment of ₹3,333.07 crore. This achievement positions Pune as one of the pioneering cities in Maharashtra to reach 100% implementation, setting a robust benchmark for sustainable and equitable urbanisation. The comprehensive completion reflects a strategic commitment to enhancing livability, access to services, and environmental sustainability, crucial for fostering a zero net carbon urban future.
The fully implemented projects in Pune span critical sectors including smart mobility, energy efficiency, water management, sanitation, social infrastructure, and digital governance. These initiatives have demonstrably improved urban resilience and the quality of life for residents, establishing a framework for future growth that prioritises ecological balance and social inclusion. The successful integration of these diverse projects underscores a holistic approach to city planning, where technological advancements serve to create more gender-neutral and accessible urban spaces.
Maharashtra, with eight cities selected under the Smart Cities Mission, has recorded an impressive overall completion rate of 95%, with 328 out of 347 projects finalised. While Pune and Solapur have achieved 100% completion, other cities such as Aurangabad, Nagpur, Nashik, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Thane, and Kalyan-Dombivli are actively progressing on their remaining projects. The challenges faced by some cities, including legal hurdles, clearance delays, and land acquisition issues, highlight the complexities inherent in large-scale urban transformation initiatives.
The central government confirmed the official conclusion of the Smart Cities Mission on March 31, 2025, with no further budget allocation. However, an advisory encourages cities to repurpose their Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) for ongoing urban development. This forward-looking guidance empowers local bodies to continue their trajectory of growth, leveraging the established frameworks and learnings from the mission to address emerging urban challenges independently, fostering self-reliance and innovation in city management.
Maharashtra’s robust performance across various sectors, including 100% completion in Smart Energy, Environment, and Social Infrastructure, underscores the profound impact of the mission. While sectors like Water, Sanitation (WASH), and Smart Mobility show high completion rates, the continuous focus on these areas remains vital for achieving comprehensive urban sustainability. Pune’s exemplary success provides a powerful case study for integrating technology with urban planning to create cities that are not only economically vibrant but also environmentally responsible and socially just, serving as a beacon for future urban policies across the nation.
---
Quelle/Source: Urban Acres, 25.07.2025