PUNE: UK based firms extended help to the Smart city mission projects in Pune. Representatioves of these companies, along with senior UK government officials, attended a special workshop titled, "Future Manufacturing and Innovation in Pune,' which concluded on Thursday. 

A 'Smart Cities' trade delegation from the UK visited Pune on the 9th and 10th of November to tap the possibilities of future tie ups. 

More than 30 UK companies are in India this week. These companies operate in smart-city related domains such as cloud-managed Wi-Fi, dynamic waste management, AI-based CCTV automation, big data analytics, integrated smart lighting control systems, cyber security, decision making platforms, biogas purification plants, road health monitoring systems and IT-based products. 

Liam Fox, British Secretary of state for international trade led the delegation to Pune. Dr. Fox said "We have seen how successfully our industries collaborate and we have seen how our countries have already invested heavily in one another. Working together on trade and investment drives economic development and growth and leads to shared prosperity." 

PMC officials presented an overview of the projects underway in Pune. Amongst other topics, they spoke of mobility, IT and water. Networking sessions over the course of two days were organised to help visiting companies familiarise themselves with local opportunities and connect with potential partners for collaboration. 

The SPV, which has the responsibility of executing projects under the Smart Cities Mission, was registered in March. Named Pune Smart City Development Corporation Limited, it has launched 14 projects under the scheme. The bodies laid emphasis on transport, water, road and solar systems. 

The Union government has released its initial share of Rs 194 crore. The PMC and the state government are now expected to raise funds for actual implementation. The PMC wants to give thrust to involving private investors.