Gwalior Smart City's SPV Focuses On Economy, Mass Transit & Smart Solutions

Gwalior, a city in Madhya Pradesh known for its historic relevance, was a part of the Smart Cities list released on September 21, 2016. Now, the city has it's own Special Purpose Vehicle, after the strategies were laid in two months. This SPV, led Vidisha Mukherjee as the CEO, will play a vital role in the smart transformation of Gwalior by taking up specific projects.

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A CBD

One of the first and most vital projects that will be taken up by the SPV is revitalising Maharaja Bada, a prominent retail hub of the city that also has a historic relevance. This project will be a part of Gwalior's retrofit-cum-redevelopment proposal. Under the proposal, an emphasis is laid on interlinking present strategic urban spaces to recreate Central Business District (CBD). This two-shift CBD will be constructed with an investment of Rs 1,916 crore, thus, providing a much-needed good economic boost to the city's economy. Moreover, the area will be decongested making it more accessible and walkable.

Redevelop underutilised land

The plan emphasises on the redevelopment of 32 acres of underutilised public land in Gwalior for promoting the art and culture of the city. The project covers resource library, art zones, recreational areas, skill development centres, 2,000 affordable housing units and 1.83 million sq ft of business space.

Redevelopment of riverfront

Swarnarekha River Front Development is a plan for a 25-acres riverfront along the stretch of 1.5 km of Swarnarekha river. This step will be vital for maintaining an ecological balance in the city.

Decongestion drive

Gwalior is a congested city and under the SPV, the emphasis will be made on transit-oriented development. Meant for a mixed-use development along 1.65 kilometre of stretch, a 30-metre wide bus rapid transit (BRT) corridor will be developed. The project will provide a retail and commercial space of 5.75 million sq ft, 1,500 affordable housing units and 2,000 other housing. It also includes redevelopment of Amkho Bus Stand.

Slum rehabilitation

As a part of the SPV, 30-acres slum rehabilitation drive to provide 4,000 affordable units will be conducted. Nearly, three markets will also be redeveloped along with public parks.

Smart enhancements

Being a smart city, a special provision will be made for smart utilities such as 24X7 water and power Supply with smart consumer metering, Underground telecom and electric cabling,  City Gas Distribution Network, Storm Water Drainage System comprising rainwater harvesting, LED street lighting on unified poles with facilities such as CCTV Cameras, PA System, RFID-based Smart Waste Management System, VMS system, air-quality monitoring sensors, Wi-Fi hotspots and clean mobility solutions with upgradation of streets.

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