Smart Cities Mission extended till March 2025 to complete pending projects

This extension, the government said, aims to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing projects. (Representative Image)

The Union government, acknowledging the challenges faced by some cities in completing the remaining projects due to various on-ground factors, has extended the Smart Cities Mission deadline to March 31, 2025.

The decision to extend the mission period has been communicated to all cities without additional financial implications beyond the approved budget.

Deadline to ensure project completion

This extension, the government said, aims to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing projects. The government also underscored the importance of these projects in enhancing the quality of urban life, emphasizing that the extended timeframe will facilitate the comprehensive implementation of the remaining 10% of ongoing projects.

Smart Cities Mission redefines urban landscapes

The Smart Cities Mission, launched in June 2015, aims to enhance urban development across India through innovative approaches such as competitive city selection, stakeholder-driven project selection, and the integration of technology for improved governance. Over the years, participating cities have undertaken a diverse array of pioneering projects aimed at transforming urban landscapes and improving citizen services.

7,188 projects completed, 830 near finish line

As of July 3, 2024, the 100 cities participating in the mission have successfully executed 7,188 projects, amounting to Rs 1,44,237 crore, out of the allocated budget of Rs 1.6 lakh crore. The remaining 830 projects, valued at Rs 19,926 crore, are nearing completion.

The Government of India has disbursed Rs 46,585 crore (97 percent of the allocated budget) to these cities, of which 93 percent has been utilized. Notably, 74 out of the 100 cities have received full financial support under the Mission.