Smart Mission

Zahid Wani

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is undergoing a significant transformation under the Smart City Mission. Spearheaded by Dr. Owais Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL), the mission aims to modernize the city’s infrastructure, enhance the quality of life for its residents, and preserve its rich cultural heritage.
The Smart City Mission in Srinagar is part of a larger national initiative launched by the Government of India in 2015. The mission aims to develop 100 cities across the country into smart cities, focusing on sustainable and inclusive development. For Srinagar, the vision is to create a city that is not only technologically advanced but also environmentally sustainable and culturally vibrant.
Dr. Owais Ahmed, an IAS officer with a vision for urban development, has been at the forefront of this mission in Srinagar. His leadership and commitment have been instrumental in driving the progress of various projects under the Smart City Mission. Dr. Owais emphasizes the importance of seamless coordination among all stakeholders to ensure the smooth execution and timely delivery of these transformative projects.
One of the primary focuses of the Smart City Mission in Srinagar is to improve urban mobility and transportation. The city has seen the implementation of several projects aimed at easing traffic congestion, enhancing public transportation, and promoting non-motorized transport.
The ICCC is a state-of-the-art facility that monitors and manages various city services, including traffic management, public transportation, and emergency response. The center uses advanced technologies like AI and IoT to ensure efficient and real-time management of city operations.
To address the issue of traffic congestion, a smart traffic management system has been implemented. This system includes intelligent traffic signals, real-time traffic monitoring, and adaptive traffic control to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles.
To promote sustainable transportation, dedicated cycling tracks and pedestrian pathways have been developed. These initiatives encourage residents to opt for eco-friendly modes of transport, reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
Improving urban infrastructure and public services is another critical aspect of the Smart City Mission. Several projects have been undertaken to enhance the city’s infrastructure, making it more resilient and efficient.
The city has implemented a smart water management system to ensure efficient water supply and reduce wastage. This includes the installation of smart meters, leak detection systems, and real-time monitoring of water distribution.
A comprehensive solid waste management system has been introduced, which includes door-to-door waste collection, segregation at source, and scientific disposal of waste.
Srinagar is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty. The Smart City Mission aims to preserve and promote this heritage while boosting tourism.
Several heritage sites in the city have been identified for conservation and restoration, which includes the renovation of historical buildings, preservation of traditional architecture, and promotion of local arts and crafts.
To attract more tourists, the city has developed modern tourism infrastructure, including smart signages, tourist information centers, and improved connectivity to major tourist attractions. These initiatives aim to provide a seamless and enriching experience for visitors.
A key element of the Smart City Mission is community engagement and public participation. Dr. Owais Ahmed has emphasized the importance of involving citizens in the planning and implementation of smart city projects. Various initiatives have been undertaken to ensure that the voices of the residents are heard and their needs are addressed.
Digital platforms and mobile apps have been introduced to collect feedback from citizens on various projects and services. This feedback is used to make data-driven decisions and improve the quality of services.
Awareness campaigns are conducted to educate citizens about the benefits of the Smart City Mission and encourage their active participation. These campaigns include workshops, seminars, and community meetings.
The implementation of smart solutions has led to significant improvements in the quality of life for the residents of Srinagar. Enhanced public services, efficient transportation, and better urban infrastructure have made the city more livable and convenient.
The Smart City Mission has also contributed to economic growth and employment generation. The various projects have created job opportunities for local residents and attracted investments in the city.
The focus on sustainable development and eco-friendly solutions has helped in reducing the city’s carbon footprint and promoting environmental sustainability. Initiatives like smart water management, solid waste management, and non-motorized transport have contributed to a cleaner and greener Srinagar.
The heritage conservation projects have played a crucial role in preserving the city’s cultural heritage. By restoring historical sites and promoting local arts and crafts, the mission has ensured that Srinagar’s rich cultural legacy is preserved for future generations.
The Smart City Mission in Srinagar is an ongoing journey, with several projects still in the pipeline. Dr. Owais Ahmed envisions a future where Srinagar is not only a smart city but also a model for sustainable and inclusive urban development.
The mission plans to expand the implementation of smart solutions to other parts of the city. This includes the development of smart grids, renewable energy projects, and advanced healthcare facilities.
Leveraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) will continue to be a key strategy for the mission. By collaborating with private sector partners, the mission aims to mobilize resources, drive innovation, and ensure the successful implementation of projects.
The Smart City Mission under the supervision of Dr. Owais Ahmed has brought about a transformative change in Srinagar. Through a combination of innovative solutions, community engagement, and strategic planning, the mission is successfully addressing the city’s challenges and laid the foundation for a sustainable and inclusive futur