Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Dahod district has witnessed extraordinary development as part of the Government of India’s Smart Cities Mission. This transformative initiative, launched on June 25, 2015, is designed to enhance urban infrastructure, elevate quality of life, and promote sustainable growth in cities across India.
Among the 100 cities selected for this ambitious program, six are from Gujarat: Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Rajkot, Gandhinagar, and Dahod. The mission aims to revolutionize urban spaces through social, financial, and institutional advancements. Dahod, a predominantly forested region inhabited by scheduled tribes, was chosen in the third round of the program, marking a significant milestone in its urban development journey.
To oversee Smart City initiatives, Dahod Smart City Development Limited (DSCDL) was established on December 19, 2017, under the Companies Act, 2013. Under this nodal agency’s supervision, several transformative projects have been successfully implemented, elevating Dahod into a model smart city.
A pivotal achievement under the mission is the construction of a state-of-the-art Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) at a cost of ₹121 crores. Located within the Dahod Collector Office campus along National Highway 13, the G+3 structure serves as the city’s IT hub. It boasts an advanced data centre with cloud-based disaster recovery capabilities, ensuring robust city management.
The ICCC features a 7×4 video wall that enables 24/7 monitoring by a team of 25 operators working in shifts. It supports key departments, including police and traffic management, by leveraging an extensive CCTV network. This modern infrastructure enhances citizen safety, streamlines traffic control, aids in crime prevention, and ensures efficient governance. The iconic Chhab Lake, a cherished landmark in Dahod, has undergone extensive revitalization at a cost of ₹120.87 crores. The restoration project preserves the lake’s historical and cultural significance while transforming it into a vibrant public space for residents and visitors alike.
The Smart Cities Mission underscores the government’s commitment to creating sustainable urban ecosystems that blend modern technology with local heritage. Dahod’s inclusion in this initiative reflects its potential for growth and development, despite its predominantly rural and tribal characteristics.
The Dahod ICCC and Chhab Lake renovation are emblematic of the transformative impact of the mission, fostering urban resilience and improving the quality of life for residents. These projects exemplify the government’s efforts to integrate advanced infrastructure, safety mechanisms, and green initiatives into urban fabric.