Smaller cities are experimenting with AI boats, IT tools, and waste-to-energy plants. But the real test lies in scale, public engagement, and enforcement. While some states like Kerala show what an achievable zero-waste mission looks like, others still struggle with basics like segregation. As waste piles grow, so does the urgency for smarter, community-driven, and tech-backed solutions. Will innovation be enough to clean up the gaps in urban waste management?

छोटे शहरों में एआई से चलने वाली नावें, आईटी टूल्स और कचरे से ऊर्जा बनाने वाले प्लांट्स जैसे प्रयोग हो रहे हैं। लेकिन असली चुनौती है इन पहलों को बड़े पैमाने पर लागू करना, जनता को साथ जोड़ना और नियमों का कड़ाई से पालन कराना। जहाँ केरल जैसे राज्य ज़ीरो-वेस्ट मिशन की सफलता का उदाहरण हैं, वहीं कई जगहों पर कचरे के अलगाव जैसे बुनियादी कामों में भी दिक्कतें हैं। कचरा बढ़ता जा रहा है, तो साथ ही बढ़ रही है स्मार्ट, समुदाय-आधारित और तकनीक पर आधारित समाधानों की जरूरत। क्या ये नवाचार शहरो

Guwahati’s transformation from a lush, community-driven town to a bustling metropolis reveals layers of memory, loss, and tenacious ties. Through conversations with senior residents, this narrative uncovers the city’s “porous” neighbourhoods where past and present coexist – in its houses, mobility, leisure, and social life. In the era of globalisation, the quest for a “memorable city” emerges: a place honouring history while embracing new futures.

With app-based ride-hailing services facing challenges from both driver unions and local competitors, a new wave of mobility solutions are emerging in smaller cities like Guwahati. From homegrown apps to state-backed initiatives, the landscape is shifting rapidly. How will this disrupt the duopoly of giants like Ola and Uber? Can local players truly compete in the long run, or will they be swallowed by bigger forces?

Outdated rates, missing records, and massive shortfalls: property tax collection in Indian cities is far from efficient. But with GIS mapping, online systems, and tech-based nudges, some cities are seeing surprising gains. As systems modernise, the real test lies in building trust and bridging gaps in access and awareness.

Vadodara’s longest flyover promises smoother commutes, but is building flyovers the answer to urban traffic woes? While the city joins others in embracing elevated roads, critics argue that flyovers merely shift congestion rather than solve it. Some cities around the world are reimagining mobility by prioritising pedestrian-friendly and green public spaces instead. Is it time for a rethink on how cities tackle traffic management?

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?