Thiruvananthapuram Corporation Initiates Comprehensive Smart City Project Review
The Thiruvananthapuram City Corporation is set to conduct a thorough evaluation of all Smart City projects implemented under Smart City Thiruvananthapuram Ltd (SCTL). This decision comes in response to growing concerns over incomplete works and significant maintenance failures that have plagued several high-profile initiatives.
High-Level Meeting to Assess Project Progress
A high-level meeting with SCTL officials will be convened shortly to assess projects launched under the previous governing council. The review follows numerous missed deadlines on several Smart City Mission projects, while others, though technically completed, are facing severe upkeep challenges.
Civic authorities emphasize that a detailed evaluation is essential to determine whether pending works should be continued, modified, or dropped entirely. Mayor V V Rajesh stated that the corporation seeks full clarity on the progress of Smart City 1.0 initiatives.
"We will scrutinize both completed and ongoing projects to identify gaps, fix accountability, and ensure public funds are used effectively. Based on the findings, we will prepare a clear action plan," Mayor Rajesh affirmed.
Background and Completed Projects
Thiruvananthapuram was selected under the Centre's Smart Cities Mission in 2016, with SCTL serving as the special purpose vehicle tasked with upgrading urban infrastructure, mobility, and public amenities. Among the most visible completed works is the Smart Roads initiative, which redesigned major arterial stretches with improved footpaths, utility ducts, drainage systems, and street lighting.
However, several sections of these smart roads have since drawn criticism for issues such as waterlogging and rapid wear, highlighting maintenance shortcomings. Other completed projects include revamped parks, energy-efficient LED streetlights, and the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) for real-time traffic monitoring, surveillance, and emergency response.
Persistent Maintenance Concerns and Incomplete Works
Maintenance has emerged as a persistent concern across various Smart City projects. Complaints have been raised about malfunctioning streetlights, damaged pedestrian infrastructure, and neglected green spaces, undermining the intended benefits of these upgrades.
Several projects remain incomplete, including smart road stretches in peripheral areas, multi-level car parking facilities, and certain urban mobility components. Delays have been attributed to utility shifting complications, contractor issues, and disruptions caused by extreme weather conditions.
Future Initiatives and Sustainability Focus
Looking ahead, the corporation is actively pursuing the CITIIS 2.0 initiative under the Smart City 2.0 framework. This new project focuses on scientific waste management and sustainability enhancements, representing a shift towards more resilient urban development.
The CITIIS 2.0 project is currently awaiting final approval from the Union government, with hopes that it will address past shortcomings and set a higher standard for project implementation and maintenance.
