A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Management, Bangaluru, has highlighted remarkable progress in enhancing urban safety for women across 93 smart cities in India. This achievement is attributed to the strategic placement of 59,802 CCTV cameras and emergency call boxes, supported by advanced real-time monitoring through Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs).

ICCCs: The heart of Smart Urban Management 

The ICCCs, pivotal to the Smart Cities Mission, are designed to efficiently manage both daily operations and emergencies. By integrating these centres with police operations, cities have adopted evidence-based policing strategies. This has not only improved crime resolution rates but also instilled a greater sense of security among women navigating urban spaces.

Focused analysis of Chennai, Nagpur and Tumakuru 

Under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ SAAR – Sameeksha series, the study focused on Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Nagpur (Maharashtra), and Tumakuru (Karnataka). These cities were chosen to assess the tangible impact of smart surveillance systems. In Chennai and Tumakuru, law enforcement agencies benefited from the integration of ICCCs with surveillance cameras, improving their ability to collect and use evidence effectively. Nagpur reported a 14 percent drop in overall crime rates, reflecting the success of these measures. Across all three cities, there has been a marked reduction in harassment, assault, and similar crimes, with women expressing increased confidence in public spaces.

SAAR Initiative: Assessing the impact

Introduced in November 2023, the SAAR - Sameeksha Series of Smart Cities Mission (SCM) initiative has conducted 50 national-level impact assessments under the Smart Cities Mission. These studies, involving 29 leading institutions such as IIMs, IITs, SPAs, and research organisations, focused on diverse themes related to urban development. With access to critical data and on-site evaluations facilitated by the Smart Cities Mission, these assessments offer valuable insights for shaping future urban policies.

Technology as a Catalyst for Change

The study underscores the transformative potential of integrating technology into urban governance. By deterring criminal activities and fostering safer environments, these advancements are shaping cities that are inclusive, secure, and conducive to a high quality of life for all residents. It highlights the immense potential of technology-driven governance in creating smarter, safer urban spaces.