Geospatial Technology

Geospatial technology is a term used to describe the range of modern tools contributing to the geographic mapping and analysis of the Earth and human societies. It is fundamental to fields such as cartography, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Geospatial technology offers a critical understanding of spatial configurations, interconnections, and events. Geospatial tools are crucial for tackling issues ranging from city planning and environmental protection to emergency management and transit systems. They equip decision-makers with informed, data-centric approaches and solutions.

Understanding Geospatial Technology:

Geospatial Technology refers to the equipment, software, and methods used to acquire, process, and analyse data that has a geographic or spatial component. This means that the data is associated with a specific location on the Earth's surface.

Types of Geospatial Technology:

Among the prevalent geospatial technologies are:

Applications of Geospatial Technology:

The range of applications for geospatial data is extensive. It's relevant in any field or sector where location plays a significant role. Some standard instances where geospatial technology is utilized:

Climate Change and Disaster Management: Aid in improving awareness of situations and offer valuable insights for decision-making in dealing with natural disasters.

Earth observation: It helps monitor various aspects, including plant growth, water quality, temperatures on land and in the sea, and ocean salt levels.

Healthcare: These tools assist professionals intracking virus spread, identifying high-risk areas, supporting migrant populations, and more.

Land and forest management: GIS tools are often used forvillage surveys in India, creating maps, and ensuring accurate rural land records. The forest department utilizes these technologies to map forest areas, assess carbon stocks, detect forest fires, and track deforestation, aiding conservation initiatives.

Societal challenges: Geospatial tools are instrumental in tackling broad societal issues, spanning from education and environment tofinancial accessibility and natural resource management.

Logistics: These technologies ensure proper tracking of goods and verify their condition.

Transport: Geospatial tools help pinpoint locations, predict arrival times, and navigate routes for shipments.

Meteorology: These technologies play a crucial role in predicting weather patterns for specific regions.

Agriculture: GIS is utilized in agriculture to assess thehealth of vegetation in particular areas.

Ecology: These tools aid in monitoring species indesignated areas and help in disaster prevention and management.

Marketing and advertising: Ad agencies harnessgeospatial tools to direct advertisements to pertinent areas.

Real estate: Remote sensing allows for thedistant visualization and analysis of property.

Insurance: Geospatial tools play a role in risk assessment for certain regions by analyzing geographically referenced historical data.

Geospatial Technology in India:

With its wide geographical expanse, Geospatial technology is key to the development of India. Several observations and efforts have been made in this regard:

As per the India Geospatial Artha Report of 2021, the geospatial market in India stands at a value of Rs 38,972 crore, employing around 4.7 lakh individuals.

Institutions like the Survey of India (SoI), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Remote Sensing Application Centers (RSACs), and the National Informatics Centre (NIC) have played pivotal roles in advancing geospatial technology in the country.

Significance of Geospatial Technology:

Geospatial technology plays a pivotal role in multiple sectors, such as:

Economic Prospects: According to the India Geospatial Artha Report 2021,the sector is projected to expand to Rs 63,100 crore with a growth rate of 12.8% by 2025.

Job Creation: Major private enterprises like Amazon and Zomato utilize this technology for efficient delivery operations, promoting job opportunities. The sector's workforce is anticipated to rise to 9.5 lakh individuals by 2025.

National Defense: Post the Kargil conflict, the Indian government recognized the importance of self-reliance in geospatial data, reducing dependency on foreign sources.

Scheme Execution: Geospatial technology can facilitate the smooth rollout of major government initiatives, such as the Gati Shakti program, which aims for significant infrastructural enhancements like constructing 25,000 km of highways and modern land record management.

Promotion of Domestic Production: By emphasizing this sector, India can nurture local businesses to create indigenous applications comparable to Google Maps.

Land Record Administration: With geospatial technology, extensive landholding data can be accurately digitized and categorized. This approach can streamline targeting and decrease the volume of land-related legal disputes. Except for Karnataka, most states have yet to update their records.

Emergency Response: During the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, geospatial technology was instrumental in bolstering logistics and technological support.

National Geospatial Policy, 2022:

The Government of India introduced a National Geospatial policy with two main goals to develop a coherent national framework and to enable easy availability of valuable Geospatial data collected utilizing public funds to businesses and the general public.

The policy aims to bolster the Geospatial sector to promote national growth, economic well-being, and a flourishing information-based economy.

The objective of the policy is to establish detailed topographical surveys and mapping, complemented by a high-precision Digital Elevation Model (DEM) by the year 2030.

It aims to work towards a unified national approach to transition to a digital economy, enhancing services for citizens and enhancing Geospatial infrastructures, skills, standards, and businesses.

Organizational framework:

The Geospatial Data Promotion and Development Committee (GDPDC) will be the premier body at the national level to strategize and oversee Geospatial sector developments.

The GDPDC will take over the roles previously held by the National Spatial Data Committee (NSDC) from 2006 and the 2021 GDPDC.

The Department Of Science & Technology will remain the central governmental agency, with the GDPDC advising it on Geospatial matters.

Key Milestones:

By 2025:

Implement a supportive policy and legal structure that backs the opening up of the Geospatial sector and broadening data access, with a focus on enhancing commercial value-added services.

By 2030:

Achieve high-resolution topographical surveys and mapping (detailing urban, rural, forest, and wasteland areas).

By 2035:

Obtain precise Bathymetric Geospatial Data for inland waters and the sea's topography.

Create a National Digital Twin for significant cities and towns, acting as a virtual reflection of real-world assets, processes, or services. This will involve a dynamic network of Digital Twins, promoting informed decision-making.

Government Initiatives for Geospatial Technology in India:

Several government initiatives include:

Guidelines for Geospatial Data, 2021:

Released by the Ministry of Science and Technology in February 2021.

Deregulated existing protocols, promoting a competitive landscape.

Removed permission and scrutiny needs, even for security-related matters for Indian companies.

Companies can now self-attest to comply with guidelines without direct government supervision.

NAVIC

The Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), consists of a set of 7 satellites and a series of ground stations

Applications of NAVIC are found in:

Terrestrial, aerial and marine navigation

Disaster management

Vehicle tracking and fleet management.

Integration with mobile phones.

Precise timing (as for ATMs and power grids).

Mapping and geodetic data capture.

BHUVAN 

It's a web portal designed to locate and access geographic data and related services, like display and analysis, online.

The significance of Bhuvan includes:

Reflects accurate country borders based on the Government of India's data.

Protects users' privacy much better than foreign map apps.

Aids to Atamanirbhar Bharat mission 

Geospatial energy map of India:

A collaboration between NITI Aayog and ISRO.

Provides an overview of energy production and distribution in India.

Assists in planning, investment decisions, and disaster management using energy assets.

Yuktdhara portal:

Launched by the Ministry of Rural Development.

A geospatial planning platform acting as a database for assets (geotags) from National Rural Development Programmes, like MGNREGA.

Combines multiple thematic layers and high-resolution observation data with analysis tools.

Challenges of Geospatial Technology:

Several challenges associated with Geospatial technology are:

Underdeveloped geospatial market: Despite India's vast potential, there's a noticeable lack of demand for geospatial products and services. This shortfall stems from limited awareness among potential stakeholders in both the public and private sectors.

Shortage of skilled personnel: The country faces a scarcity of trained professionals equipped to handle all facets of the geospatial domain. Contrary to Western nations, India doesn't have a solid base of experts proficient in comprehensive geospatial technology.

Data access and collaboration issues: There's a notable absence of foundational, high-resolution data. Additionally, ambiguous guidelines on data sharing and collaboration hinder joint ventures and optimal resource utilization.

Absence of customized solutions: Except for a few instances, India largely lacks solutions specifically designed to address its unique challenges.

Measures to promote Geospatial Technology in India:

Several measures can be taken to promote Geospatial technology in India, such as:

Creation of a Geospatial Portal and Cloud: It's essential to develop a geospatial portal to provide access to all publicly funded data through a 'data as a service' approach.

Promoting a collaborative data culture: It's vital to foster an environment of data sharing, joint efforts, and mutual creation.

Foundation data development: This should encompass the Indian National Digital Elevation Model (InDEM), urban data layers, and information on natural resources.

Introducing Geospatial academic programs: India ought to launch undergraduate courses in geospatial at institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology and the National Institutes of Technology. Additionally, there's a need for a specialized geospatial university. Such initiatives will boost local research, development, and technology creation.

Oversight and regulation: National entities like SoI and ISRO should be tasked with overseeing projects of national security and scientific importance. However, these organizations should avoid competing with private entrepreneurs for government contracts to ensure a level playing field.

Climate Considerations in City Plans

Town Planning Scheme

The Town Planning Scheme is a vital tool employed by the Planning Department to ensure the structured and systematic development of urban and peri-urban areas. It involves the preparation and implementation of detailed plans that include zoning regulations, land reconstitution and infrastructure development. These schemes aim to promote sustainable and balanced urban growth while ensuring compliance with development regulations and addressing key environmental and social considerations. Through strategic planning and efficient coordination, the scheme contributes to creating well-organized, livable and economically vibrant communities that serve the needs of both current and future generations.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING PARTNERSHIP PROJECTS

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has been implementing Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U) since 25.06.2015 with an aim to provide all weather pucca houses with basic civic amenities to eligible urban beneficiaries across the country.  Based on the learnings from the experiences of implementation of PMAY-U, MoHUA has revamped the scheme and launched PMAY-U 2.0 ‘Housing for All’ Mission with effect from 01.09.2024 for implementation in urban areas across the country to construct, purchase and rent a house by 1 crore additional eligible beneficiaries at affordable cost in next five years. PMAY-U 2.0 is implemented through four verticals i.e., Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) and Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS).

AHP vertical of PMAY-U 2.0 is being implemented through two models:

Model-1: Construction of houses by Public Sector agencies and parastatals.

Model-2: Private sector AHP projects- Ownership of house by purchase from whitelisted private sector projects through Housing Voucher.

As per the scheme guidelines, an additional Grant in the form of Technology Innovation Grant (TIG) @₹1,000 per sqm up to 30 sqm carpet area per dwelling unit is provisioned for AHP Projects using innovative construction technologies notified by MoHUA through GHTC/PACS by BMTPC/CPWD. Additionally, States/UT Government also have to provide TIG for AHP projects from their own resources in proportion to the Central TIG. TIG is applicable only for projects using innovative and alternate technologies and should be completed within 18-24 months in all respect, after getting all statutory approvals.

Under AHP vertical of PMAY-U 2.0, a total of 21,017 houses in 8 projects have been sanctioned by the Ministry on 18.06.2025 only in the State of Maharashtra, using alternate technology. These projects are eligible for availing TIG of ₹90.64 crore (Central Share - ₹60.44 crore & State TIG ₹30.22 crore). The TIG will be released based on the compliance submitted by the State, as per the scheme guidelines. So far, no TIG has been released to the State of Maharashtra. No such proposal from Andhra Pradesh has been received so far by the Ministry.

Earlier in PMAY-U, 2.68 lakh houses have been sanctioned involving innovative Monolithic Construction Technology in Andhra Pradesh under AHP vertical, but no TIG was provisioned for AHP projects in earlier guidelines of PMAY-U.

The Technology Sub-Mission (TSM) set up under PMAY-U continues to guide and facilitate States/UTs and other stakeholders in adoption of modern, innovative and green technologies and alternate building material for faster and quality construction of houses. It is further extended as Technology & Innovation Sub-Mission (TISM) under PMAY-U 2.0 to support innovative design and construction practices and projects. Under TSM, Global Housing Technology Challenge – India (GHTC-India) was conducted to identify and mainstream globally best available proven construction technologies including prefabricated technology that are rapid, sustainable, green and disaster resilient. Under GHTC-India, a basket of 54 innovative proven construction technologies shortlisted from across the globe were grouped into six distinct categories as per the different geo-climatic regions for further adoption by States/UTs, including Andhra Pradesh which are available at www.ghtc-india.gov.in.

The innovative technologies used in these projects are those shortlisted under GHTC-India through Technical Assessment Committee and which are proven and time tested. Further, as per PMAY-U 2.0 guidelines, there is provision to ensure quality of construction under BLC/AHP/ARH verticals of the Mission through Third Party Quality Monitoring Agencies (TPQMA) selected by States/UTs. TPQM Agencies are required to visit the project site and to advise State/UT and Urban Local Bodies on quality related issues.

Building Materials and Technology Promotion Council (BMTPC) under the aegis of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has been set up to continuously appraise, evaluate and monitor the performance and scalability of such identified innovative technologies in the country. The BMTPC is mandated to construct pilot demonstration housing projects, performance certification of innovative technologies, hands‑on training and capacity building across the country including Andhra Pradesh, particularly in Nellore and other cyclone-prone districts. Further, the provision of additional Central Assistance in the form of Technology Innovation Grant (TIG) for AHP and ARH projects is a boost for adoption of GHTC-India certified technologies.

Strengthening Social Infrastructure for Urban Poor

The New Urban Agenda

Master Plan

A Master Plan is a comprehensive plan prepared for a horizon period of 20 years. It remains as a statutory document that guides the development of a city by assessing the existing situation, analysing the future growth prospects in the planning area through land use planning and development regulations

The preparation of the Master Plan encompasses comprehensive analyses, address sector-wise challenges, recommendations, and proposals vital for the town’s development in economic, housing, transportation, urban infrastructure and heritage & tourism.

 

The master plans attain holistic development for the next 20 years by addressing the needs and giving sector wise proposals such as infrastructure development in the city, promoting economy, prioritizing environmental sustainability and climate change in thecity, traffic, and transportation improvement, creation of urban forest/green cover and implementation of Land use Plan.

 

In the preparation of the Master plans, a wide range of consultations with the public and government departments will be conducted. The master plan will be a comprehensive plan by including the sectorial visions, factors, proposals, as well as the needs and suggestions of the people.

Rural Area Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (RADPFI) Guidelines, 2021

Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 adopted a smart, structured approach to assess urban cleanliness and service delivery, using 10 well-defined parameters

Swachh Survekshan (SS), a landmark initiative under the SBM-U, has become a defining force in urban India’s journey toward cleanliness—capturing hearts, shaping mindsets, and inspiring action for the past nine years. 

SS 2024-25 awards spotlight the theme of Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Swachh Survekshan 2024-25 adopted a smart, structured approach to assess urban cleanliness and service delivery, using 10 well-defined parameters with 54 indicators—offering a complete view of sanitation and waste management in cities.

SS 2024-25 unfolds a very special league, Super Swachh League (SSL) - a separate league of cities excelling in cleanliness. The introduction of the SSL serves a dual purpose: it inspires top-performing cities to reach even higher standards of cleanliness, while also motivating other cities to improve their performance and compete for top rankings. The SSL features cities that have ranked in the top three at least once in the last three years and remain in the top 20% of their respective population category in the current year.

For the first time ever, cities have been classified into five population-based categories: (1) Very Small Cities: < 20,000 population, (2) Small Cities: 20,000 – 50,000 population, (3) Medium Cities: 50,000 – 3 Lakh population, (4) Big Cities: 3 – 10 Lakh population and (5) Million-Plus Cities: > 10 Lakh population. Each category has been evaluated using parameters specifically tailored to its size and unique needs. Cleanest cities have been recognized and will be awarded within each category. This approach ensures that even smaller cities have the opportunity to shine and compete on a level playing field with the usual frontrunners.

10 Years of AMRUT

10 Years of Smart Cities Mission

 

Transforming India's Transport Infrastructure (2014- 2025)

Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam pioneers sustainable water management through India's first certified Green Municipal Bonds

 Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, Ghaziabad has taken a landmark step in promoting sustainable infrastructure and urban resilience by successfully issuing India’s first Certified Green Municipal Bond, raising ₹150 crore for the development of a cutting-edge Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP).

This isn’t just another infrastructure project—it is a game-changer that reflects Ghaziabad’s commitment to creating a sustainable future for its citizens. The funds have been directed towards the development of an advanced TSTP, a state-of-the-art facility designed to treat and reuse wastewater on an unprecedented scale.

The Green Municipal Bond marked a new chapter in India’s financial landscape, providing a sustainable model for funding urban infrastructure. With support from the Govt. of India and the Govt. of Uttar Pradesh*, this project is more than just a water treatment facility; it is a blueprint for future cities across India to combine financial discipline with environmental responsibility.

At the heart of the initiative lies the Tertiary Sewage Treatment Plant (TSTP), a technological marvel that utilizes advanced Membrane Filtration Technologies including microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis (RO). These cutting-edge technologies work together to ensure that treated water meets the highest standards, making it suitable for reuse in industrial processes.

With a treatment capacity of 40 MLD, the TSTP is connected to a sprawling 95 km pipeline network, delivering treated water to over 1,400 industrial units across Ghaziabad. The plant ensures that wastewater no longer goes to waste but is instead transformed into a valuable resource that supports the city's industrial sector, reducing dependency on freshwater sources.

The project’s success lies not only in its technological and environmental achievements but also in its innovative financial structure. The TSTP was developed under the Public-Private Hybrid Annuity Model (PPP-HAM), with 40% municipal funding. This public-private partnership approach helped streamline the project’s implementation while ensuring financial discipline. GNN’s success in raising ₹150 crore through the Green Bond issuance demonstrated investor confidence in the city’s sustainable approach and has brought a new level of financial transparency and discipline to the Urban Local Body (ULB).

GNN also contracted with over 800 firms, to supply 9.5 MLD of tertiary treated water, further establishing the city’s leadership in urban water management. Ghaziabad’s innovative approach didn’t go unnoticed on the global stage. The city was honoured with the Best Municipal Treated Water Reuse Award at the Water Digest World Water Awards 2024-25, a recognition that acknowledges the city's excellence in water conservation, recycling, and sustainable water management.

A team of 22 students and 4 faculty members from West Suffolk College, England, visited the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation as part of an exposure visit. The team explored the TSTP plant and other municipal projects, gaining insights into Ghaziabad’s commitment to smart cities and sustainable development.

With its pioneering efforts in advanced water treatment technologies, innovative financial models, and a commitment to environmental sustainability, Ghaziabad is leading the charge in India's quest for cleaner, smarter, and more resilient cities

The integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into household waste collection marks a transformative step under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U)

 In the pursuit of a cleaner and greener India, the integration of electric vehicles (EVs) into household waste collection marks a transformative step under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U). These zero-emission vehicles represent the future of sustainable urban sanitation—reducing air and noise pollution while efficiently managing daily waste. By replacing traditional fuel-powered garbage trucks, EVs not only cut down on carbon emissions but also align perfectly with the mission's goal of Garbage Free Cities. This innovative synergy between clean mobility and solid waste management is paving the way for a more environmentally responsible future.

Guntur in Andhra Pradesh, has embraced an eco-friendly transformation in waste management by deploying over 200 electric autos for door-to-door garbage collection. This initiative, backed by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) under the Sustainable Cities Integrated Pilot Approach (SCIAP), replaces conventional diesel-powered trucks with a greener alternative. These electric autos, each equipped with GPS tracking for real-time monitoring, efficiently cover the city's 159.46 square kms. By eliminating the need for over 71,000 litres of diesel annually, the project significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions—an estimated 21,000 tonnes over a decade—helping to combat climate change and enhance air quality. With lower maintenance costs and a longer operational lifespan than traditional garbage trucks, these vehicles offer a cost-effective solution for municipal waste management. Moreover, the initiative generates employment opportunities and improves service reliability, contributing to overall urban sustainability.

The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has deployed battery-operated electric rickshaws for waste collection across the city. This initiative not only aligns with the vision of eco-friendly development but also addresses critical urban challenges such as air and noise pollution. By replacing diesel-powered vehicles with E-rickshaws that travel approximately 40 kms daily, the city effectively reduces around 41 tons of carbon emissions each day - amounting to an annual reduction of 15,160 tons. These electric vehicles are specifically designed for door-to-door waste collection from households, commercial spaces, and non-residential areas. Equipped with separate bins for segregating wet, dry, and hazardous waste, the E-rickshaws also promote source-level segregation, instilling environmentally conscious practices among the public and enhancing the efficiency and timeliness of garbage collection. Currently, the GCC operates a robust fleet of 5,478 E-rickshaws, servicing all 15 zones and covering 24,621 streets and over 2.1 million households. This comprehensive system brings multiple advantages: significant environmental gains through zero emissions, reduction in fossil fuel dependency, and lower operation and maintenance costs. The initiative also creates employment for over 6,000 individuals.  The integration of audio systems in the E-rickshaws further helps spread awareness about waste segregation through dedicated songs and public information campaigns.

Indore Municipal Corporation has taken a transformative step toward environmental sustainability and operational efficiency by introducing 100 electric vehicles (e-vehicles) for door-to-door waste collection, replacing traditional diesel-powered trucks. This initiative, focuses on core city areas like Rajwada, helps in reduction annual carbon emissions by approximately 24,918 tons and cut down significantly on fuel and maintenance costs. Equipped with real-time GPS tracking through the Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC), these vehicles will enhance service transparency and monitoring. The switch from diesel vehicles is expected to save the corporation around ₹5.97 crore annually, factoring in fuel, servicing, engine oil, and clutch replacement costs. To power this green fleet sustainably, the corporation has established 20 solar charging stations, each equipped with 10 kW solar panels capable of generating 800–1000 units of green energy daily. These stations can charge 80 to 100 vehicles per day, drastically reducing dependence on conventional electricity sources.

Together, these pioneering efforts by cities like Indore, Guntur, and Chennai illustrate a powerful shift toward cleaner, smarter, and more sustainable urban waste management under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. By embracing electric mobility, renewable energy, and digital technologies, these cities are not only mitigating environmental impacts but also improving operational efficiency and community well-being.

TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT

Transportation plays a major role in development and function of an area. An efficient transit system is essential for growth and ease of functionality of a city. In Indian cities development of transit systems is initiated after the saturation of city where the problems of land acquisition and traffic congestion (due to construction) arise. A lot of complications occur in the design of transit corridors. So it is always better to have a well and preplanned transit system which is integrated with the growth and development of the city. For any type of land use maybe it is residential or commercial or industrial accessibility is very important for all kind of activities.

In present day trend, there are a large number of commuters in the cities who travel through the length and breadth of the city daily for various purposes like employment, education, and business or for services etc. A consistent amount of circulation takes place in a city to make its economy and to serve its residents the efficiency of the transit systems is equally important to save time, fuel and money. Transit oriented development enables us to reduce the commuting time between city and suburban areas and enables positioning of different zones so as to reduce the necessity of transporting goods or services for large distances. Thus a well planned transit system can save time and money and accelerate the economy and thereby the development of the city.

Urban Heat Island

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is a critical urban environmental issue, exacerbating the impacts of global warming and climate change on urban populations. It not only poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable communities, but also increases energy consumption due to higher cooling demands, contributing to greater carbon emissions. Moreover, the UHI effect influences local ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and altering natural processes. This article delves into various definitions of the UHI effect, elucidating its complex nature and the range of factors that contribute to its intensity.

 

The Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect is a climatic phenomenon observed in urban areas, where temperatures are significantly higher than in surrounding rural areas. This discrepancy in temperature is attributed to human activities and urban development, which alter land surfaces and environments. The term “Urban Heat Island” originates from the visual representation of temperature distribution maps, where urban areas are depicted as “islands” of higher temperatures amidst cooler rural “seas.” First identified in the early 19th century by Luke Howard, the UHI effect has grown in relevance and urgency with the accelerating pace of global urbanization and climate change. It matters profoundly in today’s world as it exacerbates the impacts of global warming in densely populated areas, affecting millions of lives by increasing heat stress, energy consumption, and air pollution levels.

Urban Planning and Public Policy for Building Liveable Cities

 

SUSTAINABLE URBAN GROWTH MEASURES

As per 12th Schedule of the Constitution of India, urban planning including urban planning & urban development is the function of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)/ Urban Development Authorities. Government of India supplements the efforts of the States through schematic interventions/ advisories. It provides financial and technical support to the States.

The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Government of India has issued Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation and Implementation (URDPFI) Guidelines, 2014 (https://mohua.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/URDPFI%20Guidelines% 20Vol%20I(2).pdf). The Chapter - 6 “Sustainability Guidelines” of URDPFI guidelines 2014 deals with various aspects of sustainable urban development.

Under Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), a sub-Scheme ‘Formulation of GIS based Master plans for 500 AMRUT cities’ is being implemented by MoHUA. The Sub-Scheme aims at geo data base creation and formulation of GIS based Master Plans. At present, 461 AMRUT Cities in 35 States including Maharashtra are on boarded under the scheme and Master Plans for 229 towns have been finalized so far, which include 44 towns of Maharashtra. Under AMRUT 2.0, the sub-scheme Formulation of GIS based Master Plans has been extended to cover Class-II Towns with population of 50,000 - 99,999. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with National Remote Sensing Centre and Survey of India for creation of geo database.

MoHUA is supporting States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in capacity building activities through various Schemes of the Ministry such as AMRUT, for improving the capacities of ULB functionaries, elected representatives, etc., Under AMRUT, against the target of 45,000 functionaries, 57134 functionaries have already been trained so far. Under AMRUT 2.0, capacity building programs are conducted for all stakeholders including contractors, plumbers, plant operators, students, women and citizens.

MoHUA has designated 4 Institutes in different regions as Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Urban Planning and Design, which inter alia impart certified trainings/ certified courses to Civil Servants, State Town Planners, Municipal Officials, practitioners/professionals, young students etc. These centres have been provided endowment funds of ₹ 250 crore each.

Besides, MoHUA has also designated 6 institutes as AMRUT Funded Centre of Urban Planning for Capacity Building. The role envisaged for these institutes inter alia includes subject specific trainings to Municipal officials/ Town and Country Planning officials, augmenting capacity building of State / Local authorities and hand hold them in urban planning.

All States/ UTs including Maharashtra can avail the training facilities of these centres.

The Government has announced the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SSASCI) in 2022-23, 2023-24 and 2024-25, under which States are incentivized for taking the urban planning reforms. The details of urban planning reforms under SSACI are as under:

Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2022-23 – Part – VI (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components included Modernization of Building Bylaws by removing contradictions and optimizing land use, Adoption of modern urban planning tools like Transferrable Development Rights (TDR), Implementation of Local Area Plans (LAP) and Town Planning Schemes (TPS), Implementation of Transit-oriented Development (ToD). Further States were incentivized for Creation of Sponge Cities, Removing Taxation for running the Buses for Public Transport.

Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2023-24 – Part – III (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components included Augmentation of human resources by hiring qualified urban planners, Implementation of Town Planning Scheme (TPS)/ Land Pooling Scheme, Modernization of Building Bylaws, Promoting in-situ slum rehabilitation, Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), Transferable Development Rights as planning tool, Strengthening natural ecosystems of urban areas through urban planning, development of waterfronts etc.

Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment 2024-25 – Part – XIII (Urban Planning Reforms). The reform components include implementation of Town planning Schemes / Land Pooling Scheme, rationalization of Building Bye-laws/ Zoning initiatives, comprehensive parking paradigm, creative re-development of cities, Planning of Peri Urban areas, Transit Oriented Development, Technology based reforms, climate sustainability through urban planning, comprehensive mobility plan for ease of transit in NE/ Hilly states etc.

Gender Equality And Empowerment Of Women For Urban Planning

 Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) is implementing Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), which was launched on 25 June 2015. Smart elements, components and technologies are part of AMRUT projects and this aims to promote sustainable urban development. AMRUT guidelines provides for smart elements such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) as part of the water supply and sewerage projects. As reported by States/UTs 230 Water supply projects and 146 Sewerage projects have been implemented with SCADA.

Technology Sub-Mission is an important component of AMRUT 2.0 to encourage start-up ideas and private entrepreneurship, and commissioning them into the pilot projects. As reported by Stat/UTs under AMRUT 2.0, 1482 water supply projects, 241 Sewerage projects are approved with SCADA.

MoHUA is supporting States/ Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in capacity building activities through various Schemes of the Ministry such as Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), for improving the capacities of ULB functionaries, elected representatives, etc., which includes all sections of the society including women. Under AMRUT, against the target of 45000 functionaries, 57134 functionaries have already been trained so far.

Under AMRUT 2.0, capacity building programs are conducted for all stakeholders including contractors, plumbers, plant operators, students, women and citizens.

MoHUA has designated 4 Institutes in different regions as Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Urban Planning and Design, which inter alia impart certified trainings/ certified courses to Civil Servants, State Town Planners, Municipal Officials, practitioners/professionals, young students etc. These centres have been provided endowment funds of ₹ 250 crore each.

Besides, MoHUA has also designated 6 institutes as AMRUT Funded Centre of Urban Planning for Capacity Building. The role envisaged for these institutes inter alia include subject specific trainings to Municipal officials/ Town and Country Planning officials, augmenting capacity building of State / Local authorities and hand hold them in urban planning.

Under AMRUT 2.0, Ministry has also launched AMRUT Mitra initiative which involve women Self Help Groups (SHGs) in water demand management, water quality testing, water infrastructure operations, and other water sectoral projects. So far, 1762 projects worth ₹140 crore have been approved under this initiative.

The National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY), a central sector scheme of Government of India was launched on 21st January, 2015 and was implemented in twelve cities. No city in Chhattisgarh was covered under this scheme. The mission has ended on 31st March, 2019 and no new projects/cities were taken up after 31st March, 2019.

Under Smart Cities Mission (SCM), 3 cities namely, Atal Nagar, Bilaspur, and Raipur have been selected from the State of Chhattisgarh. A total of ₹1351.63 crore have been released to the smart cities in the State of Chhattisgarh under SCM, which includes release of ₹488 crore to Atal Nagar, ₹428.75 crore to Bilaspur and ₹434.88 crore to Raipur.

Indore to set up India’s First PPP Green Waste Processing Plant

 Under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, Indore is poised to achieve a major milestone with the launch of India’s first green waste processing plant, developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Indore is all set to make a significant leap towards environmental sustainability with the launch of India’s first PPP-model based green waste processing plant under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban. This groundbreaking initiative, aims to revolutionize the city’s waste management system by converting green waste into valuable resources. This project underscores the city’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in tackling urban waste challenges.

The facility will not only process green waste but also generate revenue, with the Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) earning approx. Rs 3,000 per tonne in royalty for supplying wood and branches. Built on a 55,000 square feet land in Bicholi Hapsi, the plant will recycle wood and branches to produce wooden pellets, serving as an alternative to coal and promoting energy conservation.

Branches of large trees will be redirected to the Green Waste Processing Plant at City Forest, where they will be repurposed into valuable products. In addition, green waste generated from the premises of major institutions will be directly collected and sent to the facility, with a fixed fee structure in place. Every day, the bustling city of Indore generates approximately 30 tons of green waste—wood, branches, leaves, and flowers. As the seasons change, especially during autumn, this volume can soar to 60 to 70 tons.

Partnering with the Indore Municipal Corporation, Astronomical Industries Private Limited embarked on an ambitious initiative to transform the city’s green waste into something both sustainable and valuable—a fine sawdust that could be used across a wide array of industries. With a detailed plan in place, the idea is to dry the green waste over a span of three to four months. During this time, the moisture content would decrease by 90%, preparing the material for the next stage. As the months pass by, the green waste, once damp and cumbersome, would become light and brittle, almost ready for transformation. cutting edge machines will then help to break it down into fine dust particles - saw dust. Once an unremarkable byproduct of timber mills, now has a second life, contributing to a sustainable, circular economy.

The saw dust can be transformed into eco-friendly fuel, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional burning methods. It can be used to craft durable packing materials that reduce the need for plastic. Furniture manufacturers find it useful as a composite material, lending strength to products like chairs and tables. Fertilizers made from the sawdust enriches the soil, helping farmers grow healthier crops. And in the food industry, the sawdust can be moulded into disposable plates, offering a biodegradable alternative to plastic and Styrofoam.

Under the Swachh Bharat Mission, the IMC will play a pivotal role by providing and transporting land and green waste to the plant. Meanwhile, the private company will take on the responsibility of setting up the remaining infrastructure, including sheds, electricity, and water facilities. The private firm will also oversee the complete installation and operation of the plant, ensuring its smooth functioning from start to finish.

Other private firms have set up the Meghdoot and sub-grade plants, spanning an area of 10,000 to 15,000 square feet in Sirpur. These facilities are dedicated to processing garden waste, such as leaves and small twigs, sourced from the municipal corporation. As part of this initiative, composting is also being carried out in specially designed compost pits located within the municipal gardens, further enhancing waste management efforts. Wooden pellets, produced from green waste, are utilized across various industries, including the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), where they serve as an eco-friendly alternative for energy production and other applications.

The goal of this initiative is to efficiently manage green waste, promote environmental sustainability, and create additional revenue streams for the Municipal Corporation. It also plays a crucial role in controlling the Air Quality Index (AQI). By improving waste management practices, this initiative will enhance hygiene, reduce pollution, and curb the unnecessary burning of waste, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

The project will also provide an alternative source of coal, contributing to AQI control while offering an effective solution for cleanliness and environmental protection. This initiative aligns with the vision of Garbage-Free Cities under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban, advancing efforts toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable urban environment.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWOR UNDER ARHCs SCHEME

 Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) launched Affordable Rental Housing Complexes (ARHCs) as a sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U) to provide dignified living to urban migrants/poor near their workplace. This scheme is implemented through two models:

1. Model-1: Utilizing existing Government funded vacant houses constructed under Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) to convert into ARHCs through Public Private Partnership (PPP) or by Public Agencies,
2. Model-2: Construction, Operation & Maintenance of ARHCs by Public/Private Entities on their own available vacant land.

Beneficiaries of ARHCs are urban migrants/poor from Economically Weaker Section (EWS)/Low Income Group (LIG). They include labour, urban poor (street vendors, rickshaw pullers, other service providers etc.), industrial workers, and migrants working with market/trade associations, educational/health institutions, hospitality sector, long term tourists/visitors, students or any other persons of such category.

Under Model-1, so far, 5,648 existing Government funded vacant houses have been converted into ARHCs in different States/Union Territories (UTs). Under Model-2, MoHUA has approved proposals for 82,273 new ARHC units in 7 States, of which 35,425 have been completed and remaining are under different stages of initiation/construction. These ARHCs provide dignified living with all civic amenities to the eligible beneficiaries at an affordable rate.  A total of ₹173.89 crore of Technology Innovation Grant (TIG) has been sanctioned, of which ₹83.26 crore has been released under ARHCs.

As per scheme guidelines, the initial affordable rent of ARHCs is fixed by the local authority based on a local survey. Subsequently, rent is enhanced biennially by 8%, subject to a maximum increase of 20% in aggregate, over a period of 5 years, effective from the date of signing the contract. The same mechanism is followed over the entire concession period i.e. 25 years.

As per the operational guidelines of ARHCs, various benefits/incentives were proposed by the Government to encourage proactive participation of Public/Private Entities in the construction and management of ARHCs. The operation guidelines are available at https://arhc.mohua.gov.in/filesUpload/Operational-Guidelines-of-ARHCs.pdf.

So far, the Ministry has not conducted any assessment of ARHCs. However, based on the learning from the experiences of 9 years implementation of PMAY-U, MoHUA has revamped the scheme and launched PMAY-U 2.0 ‘Housing for All’ Mission with effect from 01.09.2024 for implementation in urban areas across the country to construct, purchase and rent a house by 1 crore additional eligible beneficiaries at affordable cost through four verticals i.e., Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC), Affordable Housing in Partnership (AHP), Affordable Rental Housing (ARH) and Interest Subsidy Scheme (ISS). ARH vertical of PMAY-U 2.0 aims to construct rental housing projects for EWS/LIG beneficiaries including migrant workers and other poor who do not want to own a house but require housing for short term basis. The scheme guidelines of PMAY-U 2.0 are available at https://pmay-urban.gov.in/uploads/guidelines/Operational-Guidelines-of-PMAY-U-2.pdf.