KOCHI: The Smart Cities Mission is one of the signature initiatives of the NDA Government, aiming to provide the urban citizens world class amenities and services. The Union Budget has earmarked Rs 4,000 crore for the development of 100 smart cities. But it is considered a shoe string allocation.
In addition to the already selected 60 cities, including Kochi, the Urban Development Ministry is planning to enlist another 40 cities in the 2017-18 fiscal.
It is estimated that Rs 14,000 crore would be required for the project implementation.
Sources said the mission stands at an important phase and lack of funds would adversely affect the project implementation.
The Centre would have to either delay its plan to enlist more cities or find other ways to mobilise resources, sources said.