Expertise, sufficient funds will bring plans to fruition

Construction activities in India, if are leveraged enough, would aid meeting the goal of building smart cities. While decisions are mostly taken by engineering lobbies, bureaucrats or politicians, there is a need to better involve professionals and narrow down the focus on addressing problems afflicting cities, according to Architect Surinder Bahga, Saakaar Foundation.

What are the major challenges faced while developing smart cities?
Current infrastructure requirements entail appointing consultants and companies with more dexterity and expertise in the core areas of architecture. Allocation of sufficient funds that cater to the existing needs and proper utilisation of the same addition to establishing better coordination among agencies engaged, is imperative which would lead to desired completion of projects soon.

How smart cities are leveraging construction activities in Indian cities?
Construction activities in India should be leveraged more to meet the goal of building smart cities. Most of the decisions are taken by engineering lobbies, bureaucrats or politicians, however better involvement of professionals is called for. Issues like traffic problems, parking problems, solid waste management, slums also need to be addressed without delay.

What is the suitable approach for urban accommodation in smart cities?
Suitable approach to create world-class infrastructure in smart cities is the need of hour. First of all, necessity of any particular building, its size and future requirements need to be surveyed, analysed and finalised carefully. More focus is needed on planning, designing and documentation of projects before starting the work, else, the conceived projects end up in litigations and cost escalations.

More focus is needed on planning, designing and documentation of projects before starting the work.
Architect Surinder Bahga, Saakaar Foundation

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