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Once a modest town bordering India’s capital, Gurugram has transformed into the country’s “Millennium City.” This bustling hub now hosts over 1,000 companies, ranging from innovative startups like 1mg, BharatPe, and Cars24 to global tech giants like Google, Meta, and IBM. Gurugram’s meteoric rise exemplifies radical urban development in India.

However, this rapid growth has brought significant challenges. The city now grapples with pressing sustainability concerns, affordability issues, and the need for cultural preservation. As Gurugram expands, it faces increasing infrastructure demands, particularly those related to water management, waste disposal, and urban mobility.

Rising to meet these multifaceted challenges, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has implemented innovative solutions, positioning the IT hub at the forefront of urban development in India. These initiatives aim to balance the city’s economic growth with environmental stewardship and quality of life for its residents.

Furthermore, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has approved a substantial budget of ₹2,887.32 crore for 2024-25, earmarked for ambitious projects addressing these pressing issues. This significant investment underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable development and long-term planning.

As Gurugram continues to evolve, it is a prime example of the opportunities and obstacles faced by rapidly developing urban centres in India. The city’s approach to balancing growth with sustainability and livability may offer valuable lessons for other emerging metropolitan areas across the country, showcasing how modern urban planning can adapt to the complex needs of a burgeoning metropolis.

MCG and GMDA together are working to implement cutting-edge initiatives for the sustainable growth of Gurugram in the following ways:

1. Innovation in Water Management
Water scarcity has been a critical issue for Gurugram, exacerbated by rapid urbanisation and population growth. Addressing this challenge required innovative water management solutions to ensure a sustainable supply and mitigate environmental impact. Various strategies have been implemented to tackle this issue effectively.

• Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge
  The ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign in Gurugram aims to boost the construction of Rainwater Harvesting Structures (RHS). It is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative to bring about societal change and awareness. Also, Gurugram authorities have mandated the construction of RHS for new structures. The harvested water can be used for multiple purposes, significantly reducing groundwater and municipal supply dependency. Further, infrastructure projects like constructed wetlands and permeable pavements improve groundwater recharge.
• Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
  Gurugram’s water management strategy includes establishing advanced wastewater treatment plants to ensure sewage and industrial effluents are treated to meet safety standards for reuse. Key projects include constructing a 100 MLD Water Treatment Plant Unit No. VI at Chandu Budhera, with an investment of `78 crore. Additionally, a 100 MLD Water Treatment Plant Unit No. IV at Basai has been approved at an estimated cost of `247 crore. The plan also includes augmenting the existing Main Pumping Station at Dhanwapur to a 650 MLD capacity, with an investment of `119 crore.
• Technology-Driven Water Distribution
  Technology has played a pivotal role in optimising water distribution across the city. Smart water meters and IoT- based monitoring systems have been deployed to track water usage and detect leaks in real time. These systems provide valuable data that helps in efficient water management, reducing wastage, and ensuring equitable distribution. Additionally, predictive analytics forecasts water demand and supply trends, enabling proactive measures to address potential shortages.

In addition, regulatory guidelines and bylaws, such as the HARYANA building code, Model Building Byelaws, and Guidelines for Water Conservation, state strict regulatory policies for water conservation and management on societal and individual levels.

2. Waste Management
The exponential growth in population, companies, and industries has led to a corresponding rise in waste generation. Gurugram has implemented comprehensive and innovative waste management strategies to address this challenge.

• Segregation at Source
  A cornerstone of effective waste management is the segregation of waste at its source. Gurugram’s municipal authorities have launched extensive campaigns to educate residents and businesses about separating waste into biodegradable and non-biodegradable categories. This practice facilitates more efficient recycling and processing, reducing the burden on landfills and promoting a circular economy.
• Recycling and Waste-to-Energy Plants
  The city has established multiple recycling facilities and waste-to-energy plants to enhance waste management. These plants convert organic waste into biogas and compost, while non-recyclable waste is incinerated to generate electricity. The energy produced is fed into the grid, contributing to the city’s power needs. This approach not only reduces waste destined for landfills but also harnesses its potential as a resource, aligning with sustainable development goals.
• Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships have played a crucial role in improving Gurugram’s waste management. Private companies have been engaged to provide door-to-door waste collection, transportation, and processing services, ensuring efficiency and accountability. These collaborations have resulted in the deployment of modern waste collection vehicles equipped with GPS tracking and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, enhancing operational efficiency and transparency.

Also Read | Gurugram’s Pioneering Efforts Towards Eco-City Transformation

• Community Involvement
  Community participation has been instrumental in the success of Gurugram’s waste management initiatives. One notable example is Ecogram, the city’s first integrated decentralised waste management and resource recovery centre. This community-driven project gives citizens a unique opportunity to understand how their waste should be processed to drive sustainability. At the Ecogram Centre, various types of waste are processed, with scientific disposal of around seven tonnes of municipal waste occurring daily.

3. Cleanliness of Gurugram
Maintaining cleanliness in a bustling metropolis like Gurugram is a formidable challenge. However, MCG has devised a smart, three-tier process for efficient waste collection and disposal. Additionally, various initiatives have been implemented to elevate the city’s cleanliness standards.

• The Three-Tier Plan
  The three-tier plan adopts a comprehensive approach to cleanliness, addressing different aspects of waste management and public hygiene:
• Tier I focuses on daily street cleaning and waste collection, ensuring that public spaces remain clean and litter-free.
• Tier II involves periodic deep-cleaning operations, such as desilting drains, clearing illegal dumps, and disinfecting public areas.
• Tier III emphasizes long-term measures, including infrastructure development, policy formulation, and community engagement.
• Smart Technology Integration
  The integration of smart technology has been a game-changer in enhancing cleanliness. MCG has deployed GPS- enabled waste collection vehicles to ensure timely and efficient waste collection from designated areas. Additionally, IoT-based smart bins equipped with sensors have been installed across the city. These bins send real-time alerts when full, optimising waste collection routes and preventing overflow.
• Incentive Scheme for Clean Wards
  The Gurugram administration has introduced a reward system to motivate wards to maintain high standards of cleanliness. Wards that consistently maintain top cleanliness for two consecutive months are eligible for a reward of 1 crore. An independent agency evaluates the cleanliness of these wards, and the prize money can be utilised for the development of the respective areas.

This multi-faceted approach demonstrates Gurugram’s commitment to maintaining a clean and hygienic urban environment, leveraging technology and community engagement to achieve its goals.

4. Technology Transforming Urban Governance

Technology has revolutionised urban governance in Gurugram, making it more efficient, transparent, and responsive. Implementing smart city solutions has transformed the delivery and management of municipal services, enhancing residents’ overall quality of life.

5. Integrated Command and Control Centers

A cornerstone of smart urban governance is the establishment of Integrated Command and Control Centers (ICCCs). These centers serve as nerve centers for monitoring and managing various urban services, including traffic management, public safety, waste management, and utility services. By leveraging real-time data and advanced analytics, ICCCs enable prompt decision-making and efficient resource allocation. For instance, during emergencies such as natural disasters or public health crises, the ICCCs coordinate response efforts, ensuring swift and effective action.

• E-Governance Initiatives
  E-governance initiatives have streamlined interactions between citizens and municipal authorities. Online portals and mobile applications have been developed to facilitate the submission of grievances, payment of utility bills, issuance of permits, and access to various municipal services. These digital platforms have reduced bureaucratic delays, increased transparency, and improved service delivery. Additionally, e-governance has empowered citizens by providing easy access to information and enabling active participation in governance processes.
• Public Safety and Surveillance
  Ensuring public safety is a top priority for urban governance. Gurugram has implemented advanced surveillance systems, including high-definition CCTV cameras and Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, to monitor public spaces, particularly those that can be deserted and potentially unsafe at certain times.
• Energy Efficiency
  MCG has partnered with Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) to replace over 55,128 conventional street lights with energy-efficient LED lights. This initiative is expected to save over 4.5 MW of energy annually. The smart lights automatically adjust their brightness based on ambient light conditions and pedestrian movement, ensuring optimal illumination while conserving energy. Furthermore, they can be remotely monitored and controlled, facilitating timely maintenance and reducing operational costs.

These technological advancements demonstrate Gurugram’s commitment to creating a smarter, safer, and more sustainable urban environment for its residents.

5. Smart Mobility Solutions
Mobility is imperative for a city like Gurugram, where countless people travel extensive distances daily. Consequently, city authorities have prioritized improving urban transportation.

• Comprehensive Mobility Management Plan (CMMP)
  GMDA has released a Comprehensive Mobility Management Plan to address traffic congestion and enhance public transportation. The plan includes developing integrated transport hubs, non-motorised transport options, and improved road infrastructure to streamline traffic flow and reduce pollution. A significant proposal
  was made to create a Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (UMTA) for Gurugram to address overlapping transportation responsibilities.
• Electric Buses
  During GMDA’s 13th meeting, the board approved the acquisition of 200 electric buses under the Gross Cost Contracting Model, with an expenditure of `69.66 crore. This initiative aims to provide Gurugram residents with safe, reliable, clean, and cost-effective city bus services. Introducing these electric buses will significantly reduce the city’s carbon emissions and promote sustainable urban transportation. These buses will feature the latest technology to enhance passenger comfort and safety.
• Inter-city Connectivity
  Given that 66 per cent of Gurugram’s traffic comes from Delhi-bound passengers, the city’s traffic management must consider its intercity connectivity. The mass transit system emphasises developing strong regional linkages to enhance passenger movement in and around Delhi NCR. These initiatives demonstrate Gurugram’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility and creating a more sustainable,
  efficient transportation network for its residents.

6. Infrastructure and Connectivity
A smart city must have intelligent infrastructure and last- mile connectivity options to ease residents’ lives. Gurugram has implemented several smart infrastructure and connectivity initiatives to enhance urban living and streamline city management.

• Gurugram Metro
  The Gurugram Metro project aims to revolutionise the city’s transportation by connecting New Gurugram with Old Gurugram via a 26.65 km elevated metro corridor with 26 stations. Managed by the newly established Gurugram Metro Rail Limited, the project also includes a 1.85 km spur line linking Basai Village to Dwarka Expressway. The development, costing approximately `5,452 crore, is anticipated to be completed within four years.
• Infrastructure Update
  A smart city’s infrastructure requires regular updates, much like a smartphone. The GMDA authority has approved the upgrade of Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Gurugram at an estimated cost of `634.30 crore. This comprehensive renovation project aims to provide ultramodern sports infrastructure for athletes. The enhancements will include the construction of new training centres and state-of-the-art sports facilities. Modern systems and infrastructure will be incorporated to meet international standards, ensuring the stadium is equipped to host a wide range of sporting events and activities.
• Improvement in Last Mile Connectivity
  Recently, the Chief Minister of Haryana, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, inaugurated various roads worth `13.76 crore and laid the foundation stone for 25 development projects. Major projects include the construction of service lanes on both sides of the Dwarka Expressway for `99.50 crore and the construction of GMDA’s master road from IMT Manesar to Pataudi Road for `13.10 crore.

7. Cybersecurity
As the government transitions to digital modes of operation, cybersecurity becomes a critical issue. Gurugram authorities have made persistent efforts to address cyber security in their quest to build the perfect smart city.

• Gurugram Cyber Security Summer Internship Program (GPCSSI2024)
  GPCSSI2024, a flagship initiative of Gurugram police, offered a free 30-day course at “Cy-Lab” in Police Station Cyber East, Sector 43, Gurugram. This program, guided by cybersecurity expert Dr. Rakshit Tandon, invited 550 candidates from various backgrounds, including working professionals and college students. The course focused on teaching cybersecurity and promoting cyber safety, aiming to build a network of law-abiding netizens.
• #GiveBackToGurugram Campaign
  The #GiveBackToGurugram Campaign aims to build a community of certified cyber-savvy citizens by utilising various media channels, including print, radio, social media, and public spaces. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about cybercrimes, foster public-private partnerships, and promote a safer digital environment in Gurugram.
• Gurugram Cyber Police
  Gurugram Cyber Police has launched various initiatives to raise awareness about cybersecurity issues and empower residents to protect themselves against cyber threats. A national helpline number – 1930 – is available for reporting cybercrime and offers resources and support for victims. Gurugram has a dedicated team to handle cybercrime cases and assist those affected. Additionally, Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar is working on creating a secure and scalable website to promote cybersecurity in the region.

Also Read | Groundbreaking Water Management Practices in Gurugram

Gurugram’s water and waste management initiatives, cleanliness, and cybersecurity highlight its commitment to urban innovation. The city serves as a model for the nation, showcasing development strategies. Thanks to the tireless efforts of its authorities, Gurugram has become one of India’s most hi-tech cities with sustainability at the core.

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