France to invest $1.5 billion in Smart Cities Mission

With a commitment of 1.5 billion dollars for development projects in India, France shares a special relationship with Chandigarh, thanks to the city’s French architect Le Corbusier.

France has decided to support three Indian cities-Chandigarh, Lucknow and Puducherry.

“We are providing technical assistance to the Smart Cities Mission. Our team of 35 technical experts help Indian cities in various technical issues. The Special Purpose Vehicle which is set up for the implementation of Smart Cities Mission, need to be properly supported,” said Nicholas Fornage, Regional Director, France Development Agency (AFD), while speaking at the ‘International Experience of Smart Cities’ session of Smart City Conclave, Chandigarh, held on July 28-29.

France is revising its Smart Cities support programme, which will be implemented by the end of this year. France is also providing financial support in addition to technical support under this programme. The programme aims to cover 15 Indian cities.

” We will provide special training workshops for various Smart City projects. We will help Indian cities to develop holistical approach for development.” he added.

Chandigarh city, world famous for its architecture, is nation’s first modern planned city designed by the Swiss French master architect Le Corbusier. Keeping alive the spirit of Corbusier, the civic authorities have ensured the city is endowed with highest standards of cleanliness and living. Chandigarh basks in the glory of its rich past and beautiful present. With its ultra futuristic design and outlay the city is poised to be among the smartest in the world.