Dholera Smart City Master Plan Progress: Shaping India’s First Futuristic Smart City

Dholera Smart City is India’s most ambitious greenfield smart city project, designed to set new benchmarks in sustainable urban development, technological innovation, and intelligent infrastructure. Located in Gujarat, this 920 sq. km Special Investment Region (SIR) is being developed as part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), with the goal of transforming it into a global business and residential hub.

The master plan for Dholera Smart City is being executed in multiple phases, ensuring a structured and sustainable growth strategy. With a strong emphasis on renewable energy, digital governance, and high-tech infrastructure, Dholera is expected to be India’s most advanced city by 2040.

1. Master Plan Execution: A Phased Approach

The development of Dholera Smart City is taking place in three key phases, ensuring a well-planned urban expansion.

A. Phase 1: Foundation Development (2013-2025)

• Activation Zone Development (22.5 sq. km): This first phase includes the development of essential infrastructure such as roads, power grids, water supply, and public utilities.

• Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway (110 km): A high-speed expressway connecting Dholera to Ahmedabad, reducing travel time to just one hour.

• Water & Sewage Treatment Plants: Advanced systems to ensure clean water supply and efficient waste management.

• Dholera International Airport: The airport is under development to support global trade and business connectivity.

B. Phase 2: Expansion & Smart Infrastructure (2026-2035)

• Public Transport & Metro Connectivity: An intelligent transportation network, including metro rail, electric buses, and dedicated cycle lanes, will be implemented.

• Smart Grids & Renewable Energy Integration: AI-powered electricity distribution systems with a focus on solar and wind energy.

• AI & 5G-Powered Digital Governance: A fully digitized city administration with AI-driven traffic control, smart policing, and e-governance services.

• Affordable Housing & Luxury Residences: Development of residential zones with smart homes, integrated townships, and mixed-use developments.

C. Phase 3: Full-Scale Development & Global Expansion (2036-2040)

• Technology & Industrial Hubs: Advanced R&D centers, fintech parks, AI-driven automation hubs, and IT parks.

• Sustainable Urban Mobility Solutions: Autonomous vehicles, hyperloop transport feasibility studies, and AI-managed traffic systems.

• Global Business & Investment Center: Attracting Fortune 500 companies, startups, and international trade businesses.

2. Smart Infrastructure: Building a Sustainable Future

Dholera Smart City’s infrastructure is designed for maximum efficiency, sustainability, and seamless connectivity.

A. AI-Powered Traffic & Transportation Management

• Intelligent Traffic Control: AI-based traffic signals, real-time monitoring, and automated congestion management.

• Smart Public Transport: Integration of metro rail, electric buses, and bike-sharing systems.

• Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations: The city will be EV-friendly, promoting clean mobility solutions.

B. Underground Utility Network

• Power, Water, Gas, and Fiber Optic Cables are all placed underground for aesthetic appeal and easy maintenance.

• Automated Utility Monitoring: AI-based systems detect leakages, faults, and supply disruptions in real time.

C. Renewable Energy & Green Buildings

• 5000 MW Dholera Solar Park: One of the largest solar energy projects in India.

• Smart Grid Technology: AI-driven energy distribution, ensuring uninterrupted power supply.

• Eco-Friendly Construction: Green buildings with solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient designs.

3. Digital India Initiative: AI-Driven Governance & Connectivity

Dholera is a fully digitized smart city, aligning with the Digital India mission.

A. AI & 5G Connectivity

• City-Wide 5G Internet: Enabling high-speed digital services for businesses and residents.

• AI-Powered Smart Governance: Real-time monitoring of traffic, security, and civic amenities using big data analytics.

B. Digital Services for Citizens

• E-Governance Portals: Online services for property registration, taxation, and grievance redressal.

• Smart Healthcare Facilities: AI-enabled telemedicine, robotic surgeries, and digital patient records.

• Smart Education & E-Learning Platforms: World-class schools with AI-driven learning modules and virtual classrooms.

4. Mixed-Use Development: A Balanced Urban Ecosystem

Dholera’s master plan ensures a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces.

A. Residential Zones

• Smart Housing Projects: Integrated townships with automated security, climate-controlled interiors, and IoT-powered appliances.

• Affordable Housing for All: Ensuring that low-income, middle-class, and luxury housing options are available.

B. Commercial & Business Districts

• IT & Fintech Parks: Dedicated spaces for startups, software companies, and fintech firms.

• Retail & Entertainment Hubs: Shopping malls, multiplexes, and open-air recreational spaces.

C. Industrial & Manufacturing Hubs

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Promoting global trade and investment opportunities.

• Automobile & Aerospace Manufacturing: Attracting EV production companies, defense contractors, and aircraft manufacturers.

5. Future Vision: Making Dholera India’s Smartest City by 2040

The long-term vision for Dholera Smart City is to make it one of the most advanced cities in the world by 2040.

A. Economic Growth & Global Investments

• Attracting Fortune 500 Companies: Business-friendly policies will bring in top global brands and investors.

• Job Creation & Skill Development: Dholera will generate over 1 million jobs in IT, manufacturing, and technology sectors.

B. Green & Sustainable Living

• 100% Renewable Energy-Based City: With solar, wind, and hybrid energy sources.

• Zero-Waste Smart City: AI-managed waste recycling and water conservation systems.

C. Tourism & Cultural Attractions

• Eco-Tourism & Smart Hotels: Sustainable tourism with AI-enabled hospitality services.

• Heritage & Cultural Zones: Showcasing Gujarati traditions with digital art museums and cultural centers.

Conclusion: A Model City for India’s Future

Dholera Smart City is redefining urban living, economic development, and sustainable infrastructure. The city’s master plan is progressing rapidly, with strong government backing, private sector investments, and cutting-edge technology ensuring its success.

With smart mobility, green energy, high-speed digital connectivity, and a world-class business environment, Dholera is set to become a global benchmark for smart cities. By 2040, it is expected to be India’s leading futuristic city, driving economic transformation and technological excellence.

Now is the time to explore investment opportunities in Dholera Smart City. Stay updated with the latest developments and be a part of India’s most advanced urban project!