- Long-term utility of projects to be ensured; focus on optimal utilization and revenue generation
- Principal Secretary Mr. Bora directs exploration of PPP model possibilities
- Deliberations held at Smart City Board meeting; emphasis also placed on training and capacity building
Robust arrangements will be put in place for the operation and maintenance of projects developed under the Smart City initiative in Bilaspur. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be formulated for each project, and a roadmap for their optimal and long-term utilization will be prepared. Alongside increasing citizen usage of these projects, avenues for revenue generation will also be explored. Where necessary, work will be undertaken using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
Various issues were deliberated upon during the 20th meeting of the Board of Directors of Bilaspur Smart City Limited, held today under the chairmanship of Mr. Sonmoni Bora, Principal Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department. Mr. Bora emphasized the effective operation of Smart City projects, as well as their optimal utilization and long-term sustainability. He directed that clear SOPs be prepared for operation and maintenance and that work be carried out in accordance with established guidelines. He also instructed officials to explore possibilities for better project utilization and to work on revenue generation. Furthermore, he directed that the potential for adopting the PPP model be pursued where required.
The meeting involved discussions on several critical topics, ranging from the progress of ongoing development works and projects under the Smart City Mission to their future operations. Issues related to expanding civic amenities and improving urban infrastructure were also presented to the Board. Discussions were held regarding project operations, maintenance, and future action plans.
A key point raised by Mr. Bora was the emphasis on enhancing human resource capacity to ensure the projects are operated effectively. Instructions were issued to engage more people through the training center and to provide necessary training and work experience to officials and staff. It was also emphasized that responsibilities regarding the projects should be clearly defined.
The meeting also included a discussion on the proposal to construct an academic block within the Education Hub. Deliberations were held on proceeding with the proposed work using available BSCL funds, keeping in mind institutional sustainability and optimal utilization. Additionally, water-related projects were discussed.
Shri Sonmani Borah, Principal Secretary of the Urban Administration and Development Department, along with Director Shri Nilesh Mahadev Kshirsagar and SUDA CEO Shri Sumeet Agrawal, participated in the meeting virtually from the ministry. Meanwhile, Shri Bhim Singh Kanwar (MD, Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited), Shri Mayank Agrawal (CEO, CHiPS), Shri Sujit Kumar (Representative, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India), Shri Sanjay Agrawal (Collector, Bilaspur), Shri Rajnish Singh (Superintendent of Police), Shri Prakash Kumar Surve (MD, Bilaspur Smart City Limited), and other board members and officials joined the meeting online.