Dholera Smart City is one of India’s most ambitious urban development projects under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC). Located in Gujarat, this futuristic city promises world-class infrastructure, smart technology, and sustainable living. Let’s explore its history, master plan, key developers, and current status in simple terms.
Dholera Smart city History
The idea of Dholera Smart City was first introduced in 2006 as part of the DMIC project. Here’s how it progressed:
- 2007-2008: Feasibility studies and initial planning by DMICDC and Gujarat Government.
- 2010: Officially notified as Dholera Special Investment Region under Gujarat’s Special Investment Region Act.
- 2013-2015: Master planning completed, and infrastructure tenders were issued.
This smart city was designed to boost industrial growth, create jobs, and provide modern living spaces.
Master Plan & Mapping
The blueprint of Dholera Smart City was prepared by top international firms:
- Halcrow Group (UK): Designed the initial city layout and master plan.
- AECOM (USA): Later refined the plan, focusing on smart infrastructure and sustainability.
The city is spread over 920 sq. km, with a 22.5 sq. km “Activation Area” as the first phase. The plan includes:
- Wide roads with smart traffic management
- Green energy solutions (solar power)
- High-speed digital connectivity (fiber optics)
- Efficient waste and water management
Key Developers & Contractors
Several big companies and government bodies are shaping Dholera:
Government Authorities
- DSIRDA (Dholera Special Investment Region Development Authority) – Oversees approvals and regulations.
- DICDL (Dholera Industrial City Development Ltd.) – A joint venture between Gujarat Govt (51%) and NICDC (49%) handling construction and operations.
Major Companies Involved
- Larsen & Toubro (L&T): Building roads, drainage, and utilities.
- Tata Projects: Developing core infrastructure like water and electricity supply.
- Wipro & Honeywell: Providing smart city technology (IoT, AI-based systems).
- Bhugol GIS Pvt. Ltd.: Conducted mapping and land surveys.
Earlier, IBM India, TCS, and CISCO were also involved in planning the city’s digital framework.
Dholera Current Status
As of 2025, Phase 1 (22.5 sq. km) is partially ready with:
- Completed roads and drainage systems
- Fiber optic networks for high-speed internet
- Solar power plants for renewable energy
- Allocated plots for industries, businesses, and residential projects
Companies are slowly moving in, and the government is offering incentives to attract investors.
Management & Technology Partners
- DICDL & DSIRDA manage daily operations and policy implementation.
- NICDC Logistics Data Services (NLDS) tracks industrial and logistics activities.
- Honeywell & Wipro are integrating smart technologies like automated traffic control and energy-efficient systems.
Final Thoughts
Dholera Smart City is set to become a model for future urban development in India. With top companies and the government working together, it aims to offer a high-tech, eco-friendly, and business-friendly environment. While progress is steady, full completion may take a few more years.
