Bhubaneswar Smart City sets benchmark, draws Global South attention

A 40-member delegation from the Global South Young Diplomats Forum visited Bhubaneswar Smart City Limited (BSCL) on Sunday to understand how the Odisha capital has become a model for technology-driven and sustainable urban development.

The delegation, representing 40 countries, interacted with senior officials and reviewed projects that use integrated digital systems to improve governance and civic services.

The diplomats were welcomed at the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s ICOMC tower by BSCL Managing Director Dr Thirumala Naik (IAS) and General Manager Purandar Nanda (OAS).

According to reports, they were informed about the city’s approach to building a responsive, technology-backed administration. The team received presentations on the smart city command and control centre, intelligent traffic management, real-time grievance redressal systems, and the applications of digital monitoring in water supply, sanitation, and public safety.

Delegation Studies Smart Solutions

Reports added that the discussions highlighted how Bhubaneswar has addressed challenges linked to rapid urban growth by using data-based planning and technology integration.

The city’s model, they explained, focuses on liveability, sustainability, and accessibility, with initiatives ranging from smart lighting to efficient transport systems.

The visiting diplomats explored how digital platforms are being used to coordinate between multiple agencies for faster decision-making, particularly during civic emergencies and disaster response. They were also briefed on the adoption of green energy, waste management initiatives, and projects aimed at reducing the city’s carbon footprint.

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Emphasis On Sustainable Development

According to BSCL officials, many of the smart city projects aim not only to streamline governance but also to promote long-term sustainability.

For example, integrated transport corridors are being planned with provisions for non-motorised transport, while water supply networks are equipped with sensors for leak detection and efficient management.

The young diplomats expressed interest in how such systems could be adapted to their home countries, where urbanisation pressures are often similar. Officials said the interaction provided a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences across multiple regions of the Global South.