Vellore Smart City Project Enters Final Phase, Targets 2025 Completion
After years of progress and delays, Vellore’s Smart City initiative is now in its crucial final phase. Initially selected under the central government’s Smart Cities Mission in 2015 and ranked 32nd among 100 Indian cities, this ₹1,415 crore project aims to transform Vellore into a modern, technologically advanced urban hub. Officials confirm completion is on track for late 2025, despite earlier setbacks from pandemic disruptions and infrastructure challenges.
Key Infrastructure Developments
Integrated Control Centre The cornerstone project centralizes emergency services (police, fire, medical), CCTV monitoring, traffic management, and air quality systems under one platform. This hub will coordinate responses through a single helpline, enhancing public safety and operational efficiency.
Smart Traffic Systems Roads once plagued by incomplete projects now see intensive upgrades. Over 200 km of smart roads have been laid, with advanced traffic signals and real-time congestion monitoring to address mobility challenges in this growing city.
Waste Management Overhaul New compost centers and improved UGSS (Underground Sewage System) projects aim to tackle waste disposal effectively. However, past delays occurred due to damaged existing pipelines and hard-rock excavation challenges during AMRUT scheme implementation.
Public Transportation & Accessibility
- Multi-Storey Parking at CMC: Prospective drivers will benefit from hydraulic parking solutions, alleviating congestion near critical medical and commercial zones.
- Modern Bus Stations: A revamped New Bus Stand integrates technologically enhanced facilities, promising safer and more efficient public transit.
- Pedestrian-Friendly Parks: Parks, yoga desks, and walking spots near Palar River provide green spaces for enhancing interest in exercise and yoga .
Challenges Overcome
The project faced significant hurdles, including:
- Labour Shortages: Post-pandemic constraints slowed progress.
- Infrastructure Coordination: Synchronizing sewage upgrades with road construction proved complex, requiring phased testing to prevent service interruptions.
Future Outlook
With the final leg focusing on finishing 655 km of roads and completing UGSS connections, Vellore’s administration is prioritizing collaboration between contractors and newly elected officials. The project’s conclusion by 2025 will position the city as a regional exemplar of integrated urban planning, combining sustainability with smart technology.
Local residents anticipate improved environmental conditions, reduced traffic bottlenecks, and enhanced emergency response times. Successful completion could catalyze commercial and residential growth, making Vellore an attractive destination for both investors and homebuyers.