Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL) is proud to present its proposal for Component 2 of the CITIES 2.0 Program, marking a significant leap forward in its mission to transform Panaji into a model of urban sustainability highlighting climate change.
Earlier, IPSCDL was selected as one of the top 18 winning cities among the 100 smart cities in the CITIIS 2.0 Challenge—a national initiative implemented in partnership with the French Development Agency (AFD), Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW), the European Union (EU), and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) to promote innovative and sustainable urban development with a focus on solid waste management.
IPSCDL through an ambitious state-level climate action plan, is undertaking a range of initiatives that integrate sustainable urban planning, green building standards, energy efficiency and advanced water and waste management systems.
These initiatives are not only tailored to address the evolving challenges of climate change but are also designed to create a healthier, greener living environment for all residents of Panaji.
One of the cornerstones of IPSCDL’s urban planning strategy is the revitalization of St. Inez Creek, a vital initiative aimed at restoring the city’s natural ecosystems and mitigating the risks of flooding.
In tandem with this project, over 1,000 trees will be planted and geotagged across Panaji, boosting the city’s green cover, enhancing biodiversity and providing additional aesthetic benefits.
As part of its flood mitigation strategy, IPSCDL has installed 5 nos. of high-capacity pumps in the Mala area to eliminate flooding scenarios during high tides and heavy rainfall events, ensuring Panaji’s preparedness against extreme weather events and strengthening its overall climate resilience.
Furthering its commitment to clean energy, the Solar City Master Plan aims to cut conventional energy demand by 10%, reinforcing Panaji’s dedication to a sustainable future.
In addition, nearly 1862 smart streetlights with individual controllers are being installed across the city promoting energy conservation, and helping to meet broader environmental goals.
Urban mobility is another priority under the CITIIS 2.0 program. By installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at 40 strategic locations across the city, Panaji is making EV adoption easier and more accessible for residents. In conjunction with the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), the city has also developed a 2.5-kilometer cycling and pedestrian track along the Mandovi Riverfront, encouraging non-motorized transport and fostering a low-carbon lifestyle that aligns with global climate goals.
A critical component of IPSCDL’s sustainability plan is its approach to waste management.
The introduction of a decentralized 16-way waste segregation system ensures effective waste sorting at the source. Supported by decentralized composting stations, these systems guarantee that both dry and wet waste is treated locally, ensuring a landfill-free Panaji and supporting circular economy principles.
Furthermore, Panaji is making impressive strides in water conservation with the deployment of Smart Water Meters and the city’s Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), which together ensure efficient water usage and sustainable waste treatment practices.
In recognition of the increasing climate challenges facing urban areas, IPSCDL has proposed the creation of a dedicated body to oversee the implementation of climate action plans for urban centres in Goa. This body will align with the Climate-Smart Cities Assessment Framework (CSCAF), developed by the Climate Center for Cities, further establishing Panaji’s leadership in climate-responsive urban development.
To complement these initiatives, under the CITIES 2.0 program, Goa will host a state-level Climate Investment Summit, aimed at attracting investments for sustainable development projects and sharing Panaji’s experience in climate smart infrastructure with other ULBs in the State. The summit is proposed to gather policymakers, business leaders, and academics.
To collaborate on solutions, align policies with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and secure financial sustainability for future climate initiatives.
Speaking on the importance of these developments, Sanjit Rodrigues IAS, MD and CEO of IPSCDL stated: “After careful deliberation and planning, we have put forth the proposal for Component 2 of the CITIIS 2.0 Program with a focus on achieving net-zero emissions. This proposal outlines our vision for sustainable urban development, prioritizing areas such as urban mobility, water and waste management, sanitation and renewable energy. It is our belief that these efforts will not only enhance the city’s resilience but also help transform Panaji into a leading example of a smart, sustainable city.”
As climate change continues to present unprecedented challenges, Panaji’s efforts under the CITIES 2.0 program offer a promising roadmap for sustainable urban development. By merging innovative urban planning, groundbreaking climate projects, and strategic international partnerships, Panaji is positioning itself as a resilient, eco-friendly city, capable of adapting to the realities of climate change while leading the way in developing long-term solutions.
