SmartCity Kochi: Rs 2 crore for detailed project report

KOCHI: The city corporation will get an initial fund of Rs 2 crore to prepare the detailed project reports of development projects proposed as part of the Union government’s SmartCity programme.

During a meeting convened by Union minister for urban development Venkaiah Naidu in Hyderabad on Monday, discussions were held on projects proposed by the city corporation and its implementation.

Mayor Tony Chammany and Corporation Secretary V. Raju attended the high level meeting.

Representatives from those South Indian cities selected for the prestigious ‘100 Smart Cities’ also attended the meeting.

The Centre has offered to extend '100 crore-support each for the 100 select cities to improve urban infrastructure and to introduce smart solutions in various sectors of urban governance such as e-governance, waste treatment, water and energy management and urban mobility.

Corporation secretary V.R. Raju told DC that creative discussions were held on various projects proposed as part of the programme.

Since 20 cities will get funds in the first phase, the Kochi corporation will have to be included in the 20 cities’ list to be prepared by the ministry.

“If the state government approves the Brahmapuram solid waste treatment plant before the announcement of local body polls and the construction works begin soon, it will be advantageous for the corporation as the SmartCity programme also highlights waste to energy concept,” added the Corporation secretary.

Kochi was the only city selected from the state for the SmartCity programme and the selection was made through an independent and transparent process.