Thiruvananthapuram is India’s first city to win global sustainability award: Key success factors
Thiruvananthapuram has recently achieved a remarkable milestone by being awarded the UN-Shanghai global award for sustainable development, making it the first Indian city to receive this prestigious recognition.
This accolade, presented by UN Habitat and the Shanghai Municipality, celebrates cities worldwide for their outstanding achievements in sustainability, governance, and innovation.
The award ceremony took place in Alexandria, Egypt, where Mayor Arya Rajendran and Rahul Sharma, the CEO of Smart City Thiruvananthapuram, accepted the honor on behalf of the city.
Thiruvananthapuram was selected from a pool of candidates after a thorough analysis of its unique challenges, resources, and sustainable urbanization efforts. This year, five cities were recognized, including Agadir (Morocco), Melbourne (Australia), Doha (Qatar), and Iztapalapa (Mexico).
Thiruvananthapuram’s journey towards sustainability is marked by several innovative projects:
Manaveeyam cultural street: This vibrant area serves as a center for artistic expression and community interaction, showcasing Thiruvananthapuram’s dedication to creating public spaces that foster social connections and cultural activities.
Electric transportation: To combat carbon emissions, the city has introduced electric buses, contributing to a cleaner and more efficient public transportation system. 115 electric buses and 100 e-autos for unemployed youths signifies a significant shift towards cleaner public transport. The municipality has also procured 35 e-scooters for its operational needs.
Integrated Command & Control Center (ICCC): This advanced center utilizes real-time data for effective management of city infrastructure, enhancing the city’s ability to respond to urban challenges.
Smart roads: The development of smart roads improves connectivity while ensuring pedestrian safety and accessibility, demonstrating a focus on modern infrastructure that prioritizes people. The city has installed 17,000 KW of solar panels and converted all streetlights to LED technology. Additionally, 2,000 solar streetlights have been implemented to enhance energy efficiency.
Urban basic services and resilience projects: These initiatives aim to enhance essential services in areas vulnerable to environmental risks, bolstering the city’s resilience against climate change.
Citizen-centric open spaces: Thiruvananthapuram has created parks and green areas that promote community well-being and ecological balance.
Solar rooftop projects: By focusing on renewable energy, these projects reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Thiruvananthapuram is not just known for its sustainable practices; it also has a rich cultural heritage that draws tourists from all over the world. The city features several historical landmarks, including the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, famous for its stunning architecture, the Napier Museum, which showcases Kerala’s art and history, and the Kuthira Malika Palace, known for its beautiful design.
In addition to these attractions, visitors can enjoy Thiruvananthapuram’s serene backwaters, which highlight the natural beauty of Kerala. The local culture is vibrant, with traditional dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam captivating audiences. Annual events such as the Swathi Sangeethotsavam music festival further enrich the cultural experience.
Looking ahead, Thiruvananthapuram is set for more development with ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and connectivity. These efforts will benefit both residents and tourists, making the city an even more attractive destination.