A

PROJECT

REPORT

On
INDUSTRIAL VISIT TO
NASHIK MUNCIPAL SMART
CITY DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION

SEMESTER - (III)

NAME OF SUBJECT: AUDIT COURSE – 3 ( Smart City )

DEPARTMENT OF
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND DATA SCIENCE.

Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj’s

Karmaveer Adv. Baburao Ganpatrao Thakare College of
Engineering Nashik- 422 013
A.Y. 2024 - 25
 Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj’s
KARMAVEER ADV. BABURAO GANPATRAO THAKARE
C O L L E G E O F E N G I N E E R I N G, N A S H I K
Udoji Maratha Boarding Campus, Near Pumping station, Gangapur Road, Nashik.
An Autonomous Institute Permanently affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University

This is to certify that Mr. Sneha Tarwate Roll No.: 54 student of SE-(AI&DS) has completed
the above said Report / Term work for Semester-III of the academic year 2024-25.

PRN: EXAMINATION NO:

Dr. S. A. Talekar Dr. S. R. Devane

SUBJECT GUIDE HEAD OF DEPT. PRINCIPAL
 INDEX

● Title Page
● Introduction
● Objective of the Visit
● Company/Industry Profile
● Ongoing Projects Description
● Findings and Observations
● Learning Outcomes
● Challenges and Recommendations
● Photos and Visuals
● Conclusion
Title :- Smart City Development: Insights from a Visit to Nashik
Municipal Smart City Development Corporation Ltd.

Introduction

The visit to Nashik Municipal Smart City Development Corporation Ltd. aimed to
explore the city's ongoing transformation and observe the practical applications of
smart city technologies. As students in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science,
the visit offered us a firsthand look at how core concepts from our studies are
applied to real-world scenarios, providing insights into the interdisciplinary
approaches required to implement and manage smart city projects effectively. By
observing systems in action, we were able to connect theoretical knowledge with
practical experiences in urban technology deployment, real-time data
management, and citizen-focused solutions.

Through this report, we document our observations, findings, and key learnings
from the visit. We explore the Nashik smart city projects in detail, examining how
the city uses IoT for traffic and waste management, AI for predictive analytics,
and digital services to enhance accessibility for citizens. Additionally, we reflect
on the challenges faced in implementing these projects, such as ensuring data
privacy, managing resources, and sustaining citizen engagement. The insights
gained during this visit not only underscore the importance of technology in urban
management but also highlight the practical and societal impact of smart city
projects. In a rapidly urbanizing world, Nashik’s journey toward becoming a
smart city provides a valuable case study for understanding how cities can
embrace technology to achieve resilience, efficiency, and inclusivity in urban
development.
Objective of the Visit

The primary objective of our visit to Nashik Municipal Smart City Development
Corporation Ltd. was to gain a practical understanding of the smart city initiatives
being implemented under the Smart City Mission. This visit was aimed at
bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application by
observing how advanced technologies, particularly those related to Artificial
Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, are utilized to solve
urban challenges. Specifically, the objectives of our visit were as follows:

1. Understanding Smart City Technologies: We aimed to closely observe

the deployment of cutting-edge technologies, including IoT for traffic
management, AI for predictive maintenance, and GIS (Geographic
Information System) for mapping city infrastructure. This objective was
crucial in helping us understand the technical architecture and frameworks
involved in smart city infrastructure, which are integral to creating efficient
and responsive urban environments.

2. Exploring Practical Applications of Data Science and AI: As students of

Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, we sought to identify specific
applications of our academic fields within a smart city context. This
included studying the use of real-time data analytics, predictive algorithms,
and machine learning models for enhancing the efficiency of public
services such as traffic control, waste management, and environmental
monitoring. The visit allowed us to see how AI and data science are
operationalized in a smart city, providing valuable context for our academic
studies.

3. Learning About the Interdisciplinary Nature of Smart City Projects:

Smart city initiatives rely on the collaboration of various fields, including
urban planning, environmental science, information technology, and public
administration. One of our objectives was to understand how these diverse
disciplines intersect within the smart city framework, leading to the
effective management of urban resources and infrastructure. This aspect of
the visit was particularly important for recognizing the interdisciplinary
skills and collaborative efforts required for such large-scale projects.
4. Observing Data-Driven Decision-Making Processes: A core component
 of smart city projects is the use of data to make informed decisions. We
aimed to observe the role of centralized control systems, where data from
various sources (e.g., traffic sensors, environmental monitors, and public
feedback platforms) is collected, processed, and analyzed. By seeing how
data is transformed into actionable insights, we hoped to gain a better
understanding of how data-driven decision-making can lead to real-time
problem-solving and improved urban management.

5. Assessing the Social Impact of Smart City Projects: Beyond the

technical aspects, we were interested in understanding how smart city
projects directly benefit citizens and improve their quality of life. This
involved exploring projects that enhance public services, improve
accessibility, and ensure safety within the city. Observing citizen-centric
initiatives helped us appreciate the broader social and environmental
objectives of the Smart City Mission, which go beyond technological
innovation to include public welfare and sustainable growth.

6. Identifying Challenges and Barriers in Implementation: Another

objective was to gain insights into the challenges that the Nashik Municipal
Smart City Development Corporation faces in implementing smart city
solutions. This includes technical barriers, such as data security and
integration issues, as well as non-technical challenges, such as resource
allocation, public acceptance, and budget constraints. Understanding these
obstacles provided a realistic perspective on the complexities involved in
smart city development and the adaptive strategies required to address
them.

7. Developing Career Insights and Practical Skills: Lastly, this visit

provided an opportunity to gain insights into potential career paths within
the smart city domain. Observing professionals at work and understanding
the practical skill sets required for smart city management and technology
deployment was valuable for our own career development. This hands-on
experience also helped us identify key competencies—such as data
analysis, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration—that are
crucial in the fields of AI, data science, and urban planning.
Company/Industry Profile

The Nashik Municipal Smart City Development Corporation Ltd. (NMSCDCL),

established in 2016, is a pivotal organization responsible for implementing
Nashik’s smart city initiatives as part of India’s broader Smart City Mission,
launched in 2015. This mission envisions modernizing urban centers across India
through the use of advanced technology and sustainable development practices.
As a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), NMSCDCL was specifically formed to plan,
coordinate, and execute projects that enhance urban infrastructure, governance,
and citizen services in Nashik. The corporation operates under the guidance of the
Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) and collaborates with various stakeholders,
including state and central government agencies, private sector partners, and
technology providers.

Vision and Mission

NMSCDCL’s vision is to transform Nashik into a smart, sustainable, and livable

city where technology-driven solutions improve the quality of life for residents
and support environmental sustainability. Its mission is to integrate innovative
technologies, infrastructure improvements, and citizen-centric services to create a
model smart city that can serve as a benchmark for other urban areas in India.
Ongoing Projects Description
⮚ List of Completed Projects
1. Construction of Electric Crematorium
● Funding: Smart City Fund
● Project Cost: INR 2.33 Crore
● Overview: This project was implemented to reduce air pollution caused by
traditional wood-burning cremations. The electric crematorium offers an
environmentally friendly alternative for cremation, using electricity instead
of wood. This initiative promotes sustainability by minimizing the
environmental impact of traditional cremation methods.

2. Renovation of Sarkarwada Heritage Center

● Funding: Convergence (Archaeological Department)
● Project Cost: INR 8.5 Crore
● Overview: Sarkarwada, a historical landmark, was renovated to preserve
Nashik's cultural heritage. Located near Ramkund and the Godavari River,
this heritage center attracts many devotees and tourists. The renovation,
undertaken in collaboration with the Archaeological Department, converted
Sarkarwada into a museum while carefully maintaining its historical
integrity. This project not only preserves the site’s heritage but also boosts
tourism and cultural education.

3. Beautification Under NH-3 Flyover

● Funding: CSR (M/S L&T Pvt. Ltd.)
● Project Cost: INR 3.5 Crore
● Overview: This beautification project transformed open spaces below the
NH-3 flyover, from Garware Point to Meenetai Thackeray Stadium, with
murals and paintings of inspiring personalities. Implemented under
corporate social responsibility (CSR) by L&T, this project adds aesthetic
value to the area, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for
passersby.

4. Solid Waste Management

● Funding: PPP (Public-Private Partnership)
● Project Cost: INR 1.25 Crore
● Overview: Addressing the increasing waste from urbanization, this project
streamlined Nashik’s solid waste management with door-to-door collection,
waste segregation, and proper disposal. Through the use of GPS-enabled
vehicles and a centralized monitoring system, the project ensures efficient
waste collection, cleaner streets, and improved sanitation.
5. Development of History Museum
 ● Funding: CSR (M/S. GVK)
● Project Cost: INR 2 Crore
● Overview: Located on Gangapur Road, this museum commemorates
Balasaheb Thackeray and is dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The
museum displays paintings, artifacts, and old weaponry, along with a
peaceful garden. The museum aims to preserve and promote Nashik’s
cultural heritage, fostering tourism and citizen engagement.

6. Development of Fountain over Holkar Bridge

● Funding: CSR (M/S. B.G. Shirke Construction Technology Pvt. Ltd.)
● Project Cost: INR 0.95 Crore
● Overview: Situated over Holkar Bridge, this fountain enhances the scenic
beauty of the Godavari River waterfront. Designed with attractive lighting
and an “ecstasy” water effect, the fountain adds to the aesthetic appeal of
the area, especially during festivals and events.

7. Development of Nehru Bio-Diversity Park with Cycle Track

● Funding: CSR (Tata Trust)
● Project Cost: INR 12 Crore
● Overview: Covering 97 hectares at the foothills of Pandavleni, this
biodiversity park includes animatronic animals, a butterfly-shaped entrance,
and an informative cycle track. The park offers educational experiences
about biodiversity and conservation, making it a popular site for children
and families.

8. Development of Traffic Park

● Funding: CSR (M/S. Mahindra and Mahindra)
● Project Cost: INR 4 Crore
● Overview: The Traffic Park educates visitors about road safety and traffic
rules through models, signage, and live demonstrations. Spread over three
acres near Mumbai Naka, this park trains over 50,000 children and 33,000
adults on traffic safety, including new drivers from the state transport
department.

9. Public Bicycle Sharing

● Funding: PPP (Hero Youon Pvt. Ltd.)
● Project Cost: INR 6.6 Crore
● Overview: This bicycle-sharing scheme provides eco-friendly
transportation options across Nashik, promoting reduced traffic congestion
and improved health. With 100 bicycles installed at various locations, the
project encourages last-mile connectivity and supports sustainable urban
mobility.

10. Renovation of Nehru Garden

● Funding: Smart City Fund
 ● Project Cost: INR 3.32 Crore
● Overview: Nehru Garden’s renovation has enhanced its functionality as a
community space in a high-density area. This project increased the city’s
green spaces and provided citizens with a welcoming environment for
recreation, sports, and engagement

⮚ List on Ongoing Projects

1. Command and Control Center

● Funding: Convergence
● Project Cost: INR 159.15 Crore
● Overview: The Command and Control Center is a key project aimed at
centralizing and streamlining municipal operations in Nashik. This project
includes:
o Installation of smart city elements such as public Wi-Fi, kiosks,
environmental sensors, variable message displays, and emergency
call boxes (SOS).
o Establishment of a Smart City Operation Center and a Citizen Digital
Experience Center to improve civic engagement and responsiveness.
o Installation of CCTV cameras across the city to enhance public
safety and surveillance, ensuring better enforcement of security and
traffic regulations.
● Impact: Enhanced municipal coordination and a safer, more connected
urban environment through integrated monitoring and response capabilities.

2. Installation of Solar Panels on Government Building Rooftops

● Funding: Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
● Project Cost: INR 4.74 Crore
● Overview: This project focuses on sustainable energy generation by
installing solar panels on the rooftops of 16 government buildings. Key
components include:
o Development of a Green & Blue Environment plan to reduce reliance
on conventional energy.
o Installation of a solar system with a total capacity of 1 MW, which
will help in offsetting power costs for the municipality.
o The project is expected to yield substantial savings of around INR 1
crore per year once fully operational.
● Impact: A shift towards renewable energy sources, reducing the city’s
carbon footprint and supporting the government’s green initiatives.

3. Smart Parking Management

● Funding: Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
 ● Project Cost: INR 79.54 Crore
● Overview: The Smart Parking project aims to modernize Nashik’s parking
infrastructure through ICT (Information and Communication Technology).
Highlights include:
o Implementation across 28 on-street and 5 off-street parking areas.
o Real-time information on parking availability via a city app, helping
users locate vacant slots and minimize time spent searching for
parking.
o Integration of multiple payment options, including smart cards,
tokens, and e-payment systems.
o Deployment of sensors and cameras to monitor parking lot capacity
and ensure space optimization, reducing illegal parking instances.
● Impact: Reduced traffic congestion, optimized use of parking spaces, and a
smoother parking experience for residents.

4. Pilot Smart Road in ABD Area

● Funding: Smart City Fund
● Project Cost: INR 16.15 Crore
● Overview: This pilot project involves transforming a 1.1 km road stretch
from Trimbak Naka to Ashok Stambh into a model “Smart Road.”
Proposed features include:
o Uniform carriageway width, with dedicated lanes for vehicles,
bicycles, and pedestrians.
o Footpaths, landscaped areas, and stormwater drainage to improve
road safety and aesthetics.
o Smart street furniture such as benches and proper signage to enhance
functionality and appeal.
o Installation of infrastructure utility ducts under footpaths for
organized utility management.
● Impact: Safer, more organized roadways with improved infrastructure,
setting a standard for future road development in Nashik.
Findings and Observations
The visit to Nashik Municipal Smart City Development Corporation Ltd.
provided valuable insights into the various projects designed to modernize and
improve Nashik’s urban infrastructure. Here are the main findings and
observations gathered from the field visit:

1. Technological Integration in Urban Management

● Command and Control Center: The Command and Control Center
highlighted how Nashik is embracing digital solutions for urban
management. The center integrates a wide array of smart city elements such
as Wi-Fi connectivity, environmental sensors, and emergency SOS call
boxes, along with real-time surveillance through CCTV cameras.
● Impact: This centralized approach allows authorities to monitor city
activities, improve security, and respond more effectively to emergencies,
making urban management more efficient and responsive.

2. Renewable Energy Adoption

● Installation of Solar Panels: Observing the solar panel installation project
on government buildings, it was evident that Nashik is prioritizing
sustainable energy solutions. With 16 government rooftops designated for
solar energy generation, the city aims to offset its conventional energy use
significantly.
● Impact: This initiative reflects Nashik's commitment to environmental
sustainability, reducing carbon emissions and promoting the use of
renewable energy, which also results in financial savings for the
municipality.

3. Efficient Parking Solutions

● Smart Parking Management: The smart parking management project
introduces an ICT-based approach to address the challenges of parking
congestion. Real-time parking availability information, multiple payment
options, and sensors for monitoring lot usage are notable features.
● Impact: By offering real-time updates and organized parking options, the
system helps reduce illegal parking and traffic congestion, streamlining
urban mobility and making the parking experience more user-friendly for
residents.

4. Enhanced Public Safety and Civic Engagement

● Command and Control Center Surveillance: The widespread installation
of CCTV cameras across the city not only improves surveillance but also
fosters a greater sense of safety among residents.
● Smart Kiosks and Information Displays: The addition of digital kiosks
and variable message displays provides the public with easy access to
information and assistance, promoting greater civic engagement and
connectivity.
5. Sustainable Urban Road Infrastructure
● Pilot Smart Road Project: The development of the 1.1 km smart road
showcases how future urban roads can be designed to accommodate various
modes of transport, including dedicated lanes for bicycles and footpaths for
pedestrians. Additionally, the smart road includes landscaping, water
drainage, and organized utility ducts under footpaths.
● Impact: This approach transforms previously chaotic road spaces into
organized and accessible areas, making the infrastructure safer and more
inclusive for all citizens, while also enhancing the city's aesthetic appeal.

6. Community-Centered Public Spaces

● Beautification and Accessibility Projects: Various beautification projects
under the NH-3 flyover and at heritage centers like Sarkarwada have
transformed these public spaces into attractive and engaging areas. These
initiatives create visually appealing environments that encourage
community interaction.
● Impact: The revitalization of public spaces reflects the city’s dedication to
making Nashik a more livable, culturally rich, and engaging city for both
residents and tourists.

7. Solid Waste Management Advances

● Solid Waste Collection and Monitoring: The solid waste management
project uses GPS-enabled vehicles and systematic monitoring to ensure
consistent door-to-door waste collection. This structured approach supports
waste segregation, efficient disposal, and cleanliness across the city.
● Impact: By managing solid waste more effectively, the city enhances
public health and environmental quality, making Nashik a cleaner and more
organized urban area.

8. Promotion of Eco-Friendly Transportation

● Public Bicycle Sharing: The bicycle-sharing scheme demonstrates
Nashik’s promotion of eco-friendly and health-oriented transportation
solutions. The availability of bicycles at convenient locations encourages
sustainable travel for short distances, reducing reliance on motor vehicles.
● Impact: This project helps decrease traffic congestion, lowers pollution
levels, and supports a healthier lifestyle for citizens.

9. Educational and Cultural Enrichment

● Development of Museums and Traffic Park: The city’s investment in
educational spaces, such as the history museum and traffic park, offers both
cultural enrichment and practical learning. The history museum preserves
cultural heritage, while the traffic park teaches road safety and traffic rules
through hands-on learning.
● Impact: These spaces contribute to community education, raise awareness
on road safety, and foster a connection to Nashik’s historical and cultural
heritage.
Learning Outcomes

1. Real-World Application of Smart Technology: The visit provided

insights into how digital solutions like CCTV surveillance, smart
parking systems, and command centers can effectively improve city
management and urban safety.

2. Understanding of Sustainable Practices: Observing projects like

rooftop solar installations and solid waste management systems
highlighted the importance of integrating renewable energy and efficient
waste disposal to build an eco-friendly urban environment.

3. Community and Cultural Engagement: Projects such as the

Sarkarwada Heritage Center and public spaces beautification show the
value of preserving cultural heritage while enhancing public spaces for
community interaction.

4. Improved Urban Mobility: The city’s public bicycle sharing system

and smart parking project demonstrated innovative ways to ease traffic
congestion and promote sustainable modes of transportation.

5. Cross-Sector Collaboration: The partnership models, such as PPPs for

solar installations and CSR funding for parks, revealed the effectiveness
of collaboration between government, private companies, and other
sectors in achieving large-scale urban projects.
Challenges and Recommendations

High Project Costs and Funding Limitations

● Challenge: Implementing smart city projects, particularly large-scale
infrastructure upgrades and installations, often requires significant financial
investment. Projects like the Command and Control Center and solar
rooftop installations involve high upfront costs and ongoing operational
expenses. In some cases, limited funding from government budgets may
delay project completion or force reductions in project scope, impacting the
overall efficacy and reach of these initiatives.
● Impact: Limited funds can restrict the expansion of critical smart city
infrastructure, which may lead to delays or incomplete installations,
affecting the city's ability to achieve its objectives.

Public Adaptation to New Technologies

● Challenge: For initiatives like smart parking systems, public bicycle
sharing, and digital kiosks, there can be a learning curve for residents who
may be unfamiliar with these technologies. Lack of understanding or
apprehension toward using these new systems can lead to low adoption
rates, which diminishes the intended benefits of these projects.
● Impact: Without adequate public participation and adaptation, these smart
solutions may remain underutilized, resulting in a lack of return on
investment and missed opportunities to improve urban mobility and
connectivity.

Maintenance and Sustainability of Infrastructure

● Challenge: The upkeep of advanced infrastructure, such as the Command
and Control Center, CCTV surveillance, and environmental sensors,
requires dedicated resources for regular maintenance and technological
updates. Ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency over time can be
difficult, particularly if maintenance costs are not accounted for in the
initial funding.
● Impact: Neglecting the regular maintenance of these smart city elements
can lead to system failures, reduced effectiveness, and an eventual need for
costly replacements, affecting the quality of city services over the long
term.

Challenges in Effective Waste Management and Segregation

● Challenge: Despite implementing structured waste collection and GPS-
enabled tracking of collection vehicles, consistent waste segregation at the
source remains challenging. Public compliance with segregation guidelines
may be low due to lack of awareness or logistical difficulties in ensuring
proper sorting of dry and wet waste.
● Impact: Inadequate waste segregation can compromise the efficiency of
the entire waste management process, leading to higher disposal costs,
increased pollution, and missed opportunities for recycling and composting,
which are essential for sustainable urban waste management.
Traffic Congestion and Road Safety Enforcement
● Challenge: While projects like smart parking systems and traffic parks are
aimed at reducing congestion and improving road safety, managing urban
traffic remains a significant challenge. Nashik experiences high vehicle
density in certain areas, and improper parking and driving behaviors
contribute to traffic congestion.
● Impact: Continued congestion hampers the effectiveness of traffic
management solutions, reduces road safety, and increases travel times for
residents, potentially deterring investors and affecting the city’s livability.

Coordination Between Multiple Stakeholders

● Challenge: Nashik’s smart city projects involve various stakeholders,
including government bodies, private sector partners, and local
communities. Aligning objectives, coordinating efforts, and maintaining
clear communication among all parties can be difficult, leading to potential
delays, misalignment of goals, or conflicts in execution.
● Impact: Ineffective collaboration may result in incomplete or stalled
projects, higher operational costs, and a lack of cohesion in the city’s smart
development plans, hindering the overall effectiveness of the smart city
initiatives.

Environmental and Cultural Sensitivity in Development

● Challenge: Projects like the Sarkarwada Heritage Center and beautification
under the NH-3 Flyover require careful consideration of Nashik’s cultural
and environmental landscapes. Balancing modernization efforts with
heritage preservation and ecological sensitivity can be challenging, as it
involves careful planning and adherence to regulatory standards.
● Impact: Failure to balance modern infrastructure with heritage
conservation could lead to the loss of cultural identity, reduced tourism
appeal, and public opposition, impacting the overall acceptance and
sustainability of development projects.
Photos and Visuals
Conclusion

In conclusion, the visit to the Nashik Municipal Smart City Development

Corporation Ltd. has provided valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to
transform Nashik into a smart, sustainable, and citizen-centric city. Through
various projects aimed at improving infrastructure, public services, and
environmental sustainability, Nashik is setting a benchmark for other cities in
India to follow. The diverse range of initiatives, such as the construction of
electric crematoriums, smart parking systems, heritage restoration, and the
implementation of renewable energy solutions, reflects the city's commitment to
integrating modern technology with the preservation of its cultural heritage.
While these projects are commendable and contribute significantly to enhancing
the quality of life for the citizens of Nashik, there are challenges related to high
costs, public adaptation, infrastructure maintenance, waste management, and
traffic congestion that need continuous attention and improvement. However, with
strong governmental leadership, effective collaboration with private partners, and
increased public awareness, Nashik’s smart city initiatives are poised to make a
lasting impact on urban development.
This visit has reinforced the importance of smart technologies, sustainability
practices, and community engagement in building a modern city that caters to the
needs of its growing population while addressing the challenges of urbanization.
As the smart city initiatives continue to evolve, Nashik will serve as an example
for how cities can harness innovation to create a safer, cleaner, and more efficient
urban environment.

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Nashik Municipal Smart City
Development Corporation Ltd. for providing the opportunity to explore their
innovative projects. I also thank the faculty and organizers for coordinating the
visit and guiding us throughout the process. Special thanks to my fellow students
for their active participation, making this experience even more enriching. Finally,
I appreciate the staff members at the Corporation for their valuable time,
hospitality, and sharing of knowledge, which greatly contributed to the success of
this visit.