The Smart City Mission has seen an expenditure of 1.64 lakh crore rupees over the last 10 years, aimed at transforming urban areas across India. However, a recent ground report from Aaj Tak scrutinizes the actual benefits of this initiative in cities like Bhopal, Jaipur, Bhagalpur, and Ludhiana. Residents express dissatisfaction, revealing that the expected amenities and upgrades have not materialized as promised.

Despite the substantial investments, the report indicates that many of the smart city projects remain incomplete or inadequate, leaving citizens questioning the effectiveness of the government's ambitious plan. The disparity between the project costs and the actual improvements in infrastructure and services is prominent, as many urban areas still grapple with basic civic issues.

The implications of this report suggest a broader need for accountability and transparency in public spending on urban development. As the Smart City Mission is pivotal to India's urban planning strategy, it urges stakeholders to reassess their approach to ensure that funds are effectively utilized to enhance the quality of urban life.