The news that the Government of Manipur and Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC) have begun seeking constructive suggestions from all in developing an Imphal Smart City Proposal is indeed a good move. 

However, given the current state of affairs in the way how infrastructural initiatives have been handled by the authorities, one is not really sure how the suggestions provided by the citizens would translate into reality. 

Despite the unending issues dogging the process of developing urban areas in Manipur, the Manipur Chief Secretary O Nabakishore has exhibited certain amount of new found optimism. 

Perhaps, his confidence has been spurred by the fact that Imphal is one of the 98 (ninety-eight) Indian cities selected for Smart Cities Mission. 

....

If one looks at the requirements like e-Governance, waste management, water management, energy management etc that have a city-wide impact on the quality of each denizen’s life, it is not difficult to imagine the gigantic tasks ahead. 

One onerous task would be replacement of an existing built-up area by dismantling and then co-creating and constructing a new layout with enhanced infrastructure using mixed land use and increased density. This should be of existing built up area within the municipal boundary. 

Another key element is the development of Greenfield so as to introduce smart solutions in a previously vacant area using innovative planning with provision for affordable housing.