India’s growing e-waste crisis is challenging cities to find sustainable solutions. While initiatives like ‘Mission E-waste’ and local recycling programs in cities such as Jamshedpur and Bhopal are taking steps forward, much more needs to be done. As innovative solutions emerge, the question remains: can India build a circular economy for e-waste, or will it continue to pile up?

The Bhopal Municipal Corporation was recently fined Rs. 1 crore by the National Green Tribunal for illegal construction on Bhopal Lake, underlining the growing role of NGT in holding cities accountable for environmental violations. While NGT's reach has extended beyond major metros, smaller towns are also under scrutiny. With citizen involvement proving crucial, are environmental concerns in smaller cities now being addressed effectively?

Udupi’s plan to replace over 20,000 conventional streetlights with LEDs is set to cut power consumption by 80%, saving the city significant costs. But as more cities follow suit, a crucial question arises. Could the shift to LED lights be creating new problems, like increased light pollution and disrupted sleep cycles? As cities embrace energy efficiency, is there a balance to be struck between sustainability and the well-being of residents?

Towering landfills like Ghazipur are more than just urban eyesores; they’re a looming health threat! As cities struggle with legacy waste, some are turning to bio-mining to reclaim land and reduce pollution. Chandigarh’s Dadumajra dumpsite is one such effort, aiming to transform waste into reusable resources. With SBM 2.0 pushing smaller cities to act, could bio-mining be the solution to India’s waste mountain crisis?

What exactly is Fare Free Public Transport, and can it really solve India’s urban mobility challenges? While some have embraced free rides, especially to ease travel for women, the pandemic’s impact on transit finances raises tough questions. Can such policies thrive amid budget crises and changing travel habits? This complex idea holds promise but also presents surprising trade-offs ahead.

Public transport in smaller Indian cities was already struggling before COVID-19. But what did the pandemic do to these travel patterns? It sparked shifts in how people move, revealing new trends in private vehicle use and non-motorised transport. These changes carry both opportunities and challenges, especially outside major metros.

2018 was a year where cities in India took center stage: politically, economically, and socially. From rising citizen participation to international partnerships, urban life saw transformative change. With rankings, policies, and citizen-led initiatives making waves, cities found their voices louder than ever. As cities continue to evolve, how ready are they to meet the challenges of tomorrow in and inclusive and sustainable manner?