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With the implementation of smart city projects, Bhubaneswar has undergone a remarkable transformation. These initiatives have transformed the way of life for Bhubaneswarites, raising the overall standard of living and improving several factors, including technology and amenities, entertainment, security, well-being, and cleanliness. Some significant areas that have experienced substantial improvements are smart parking and smart traffic management, ICCC (Integrated Command and Control Center), smart governance, and smart connect, as well as fiber optic infrastructure, the 1929 24*7 City call center, place-making, and the creation of space for amusement in Smart Janpath, and solid waste management, among others.

One of the game-changing aspects of Bhubaneswar’s smart city projects is the implementation of smart parking solutions. With the advent of real-time parking guidance systems, traditional parking issues, characterized by time-consuming searches for available spaces, have been resolved. Through mobile applications or digital signage, drivers can now quickly locate open parking spaces thanks to sensors and advanced analytics, easing traffic congestion and saving valuable time.

Similarly, Bhubaneswar’s Multi-Level Car Parking (MLCP) has been a crucial improvement to the city’s infrastructure. By maximizing space utilization and offering a structured parking system, these multi-level parking facilities provide an easy solution to the city’s parking problems. MLCPs in the Sahid Nagar and Raj Mahal areas have greatly reduced parking issues and enhanced traffic control throughout the city.

The traffic control system in Bhubaneswar has undergone a paradigm shift as a result of the city’s smart city initiatives. Modern cameras, sensors, and data analytics enable intelligent traffic management systems to monitor traffic patterns in real time and facilitate prompt interventions. As a result, there is much less traffic congestion now, driving is safer, and traveling is better in general.

BSCL’s Integrated Command and Control System make it possible to thoroughly monitor traffic throughout the entire city. The system uses cuttingedge technology and data analytics to gather real-time data from numerous sources, including cameras and sensors, to monitor traffic flow, pinpoint areas of congestion, and enable prompt interventions for effective traffic management.

Through the introduction of the Bhubaneswar.Me portal, a gamechanging initiative that has transformed the provision of public services, Bhubaneswar has embraced smart governance. The Bhubaneswar. Me portal acts as a digital hub that gives citizens access to a variety of online government services. From the comfort of their homes, citizens can easily pay their utility bills, apply for certificates, permits, and licenses, and use a variety of e-governance services. This user-friendly portal has greatly improved administrative process efficiency and service delivery transparency. By giving citizens a seamless and effective way to communicate with the government, the Bhubaneswar.Me portal has empowered citizens and promoted a more responsive and inclusive governance system in Bhubaneswar.

With the installation of a strong fiber optic network and the removal of the overhead aerial cable system, Bhubaneswar Smart City has made significant progress in modernizing its communication infrastructure. The city’s connectivity has been transformed by the installation of fiber optic infrastructure, which has improved communication and enabled high-speed internet access. This cutting-edge network has not only increased the effectiveness of data transmission but also opened the door for the creation of smart city services and applications.

The skyline of Bhubaneswar has changed as a result of the removal of the overhead aerial cables, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing urban setting and lowering the risk of cable-related accidents. This proactive approach to modernizing the communication infrastructure underlines Bhubaneswar’s dedication to becoming a smart city that is prepared for the future and has cutting-edge technology.

With the introduction of the SAFA app, Bhubaneswar has significantly improved solid waste management. Residents can report issues with waste and track the progress of waste collection in their neighborhoods thanks to this cutting-edge app. The integrated command control center in Bhubaneswar utilizes the SAFA app to track and manage sanitation activities across the city. Through real-time monitoring and data analysis, the command center ensures effective waste management, leading to cleaner and healthier surroundings for Bhubaneswarites. With the effective door-to-door garbage collection system that Bhubaneswar has put in place, households’ waste is regularly picked up. The city also places a strong emphasis on waste separation at the source, urging citizens to separate recyclables from non-recyclables. By putting in place waste-to-energy plants, composting facilities, and promoting awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste disposal within the next three years, Bhubaneswar hopes to achieve zero dumping as part of its commitment to sustainable waste management.

The integrated command control center of BSCL effectively serves the local populace as an intelligent command center. It enables real-time monitoring of numerous city services, including traffic management, waste management, and emergency response systems, as a result of advanced technologies and data analytics. The command center ensures prompt interventions, streamlines operations, and enhances citizen safety and convenience. By centralizing information and decision-making, it plays a pivotal role in providing efficient services, improving governance, and catering to the needs of Bhubaneswar citizens effectively.

The Smart Response and Incident Management System in Bhubaneswar is a comprehensive surveillance network comprising 450 fixed cameras and 150 PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) cameras. This system is further supported by a Video Management System Application equipped with advanced analytics tools like Auto Tracker, Adaptive Motion Detection, Abandoned Object Removal, and Intrusion Detection. These cameras and tools are diligently monitored by police officers stationed at the Command Control Center, ensuring real-time surveillance, prompt response to incidents, and enhanced security for the city of Bhubaneswar.

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1929 is a 24*7 city call center that was established in Bhubaneswar and acts as a crucial lifeline in times of crisis. This helpline connects callers to the appropriate emergency services in order to provide immediate assistance. 1929 plays a crucial role in ensuring a prompt response and timely help during critical situations by handling distress calls with trained operators, enhancing safety and security for residents of Bhubaneswar.

The Integrated Public Service Centre (IPSC) in Bhubaneswar is designed as a comprehensive facility offering e-Seva services, healthcare, a library, and a crèche. This one-stop shop caters to the immediate social and urban service needs of the neighborhood while serving as a social space for community engagement and interaction. The ICCC keeps track of the Mo Bus App. Authorities can follow real-time data on bus locations, passenger counts, and route deviations thanks to this system. It makes it possible to manage the bus network more effectively, increases passenger safety, and improves the city’s overall transportation services.

BSCL has established a skill development center aimed at empowering slum youth by enhancing their skills and making them industryready. Additionally, the public library at the center provides a rich collection of books and newspapers, benefiting slum students in their educational pursuits.

Bhubaneswar concentrated on place-making as part of the Mukta Project to make Janpath a visually appealing area. This renovation included seating areas, landscaped gardens, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and recreational facilities. The outcome is a charming and lively environment that promotes friendship and entertainment while also adding to the city’s allure.

The quality of life for residents of Bhubaneswar has significantly improved due to innovative smart city projects. The adoption of cutting-edge infrastructure and technologies has improved amenities, security, entertainment options, and general well-being, making Bhubaneswar a more.

Views expressed by: Suryavanshi Mayur Vikas, IAS, Additional Municipal Commissioner, Bhubaneswar

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