The Uttar Pradesh government has been actively driving urban development across the state. They aim to create economically strong, safe, smart, and future-ready cities for the people. For such, Aligarh is no exception. With its deep historical roots and a reputation as an educational hub, the city is ready for a transformation.
As part of the Smart City Mission, Aligarh focuses on better infrastructure and smarter public services. Initiatives like smart roads, multi-level parking, and adaptive traffic signals are making everyday travel easier. The Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) enhances safety and city management while improving waste disposal and digital governance. The authorities are also revitalising public spaces, turning Aligarh into UP’s gem.
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Smart City of Uttar Pradesh: Aligarh
Aligarh, located in western Uttar Pradesh, India, has a rich and varied history. Before the 18th century, people referred to the city and the surrounding district as Kol or Koil. The origin of the name “Kol” is unclear, with ancient texts mentioning it as a tribe, a place, a mountain, or even a sage or demon.
The city’s recorded history begins in the 12th century, during which it served as a significant political and economic centre under the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. In the 16th century, the Aligarh Fort underwent substantial reconstruction, marking an important period in the city’s development. By the mid-1700s, the town adopted the name Aligarh.
A pivotal moment in Aligarh’s history occurred in 1875 when Sir Syed Ahmad Khan founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College. This institution later evolved into Aligarh Muslim University. It became the heart of the Aligarh Movement, which aimed to modernise education for Muslims in India by introducing Western-style scientific learning. Today, the smart city of Aligarh is known for its educational institutions and rich cultural heritage.
Aligarh’s Smart City Growth
Aligarh is going through a major transformation under the Smart City Mission, aiming to improve daily life. With a budget of over ₹2,500 crore, the city is working on upgrading roads, improving public transport, and making services more accessible.
The Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) is active and helps with city surveillance, traffic control, and emergency response. It has installed more than 585 CCTV cameras at key locations, and smart traffic signals at 20 intersections are making roads safer and smoother. A new online governance system lets residents easily access municipal services, while a real-time public transport tracking system helps commuters plan their travel better.
Several major projects are shaping the city’s future. The Baradwari Multi-Level Parking Facility will reduce parking issues in busy areas, while the Smart Road Initiative is adding LED streetlights, smart signals, and pedestrian-friendly paths. The Achal Taal Revamp will turn the area into a lively spot with boating, an open-air theatre, and commercial spaces. Rasalganj Road is also getting a facelift and improving roads, footpaths, and shopping areas. The authorities have implemented an integrated waste management system to handle garbage efficiently and clean the city. Schools are also improving their facilities at Naurangi Lal Rajkiya Inter College.
Projects in Smart City Aligarh
Aligarh is undergoing a significant transformation under the Smart City Mission. The city has initiated numerous projects focusing on various sectors, including transportation, waste management, and public amenities. Notably, in January 2025, the city launched 93 new projects on Uttar Pradesh Day to bolster its development trajectory.
Area-Based Development: ABD Projects
A substantial portion of the Smart City budget, amounting to ₹2,090 crore out of a total ₹2,566.86 crore, is dedicated to Area-Based Development (ABD) projects. These projects target specific areas within the city to implement comprehensive improvements. Below is an overview of some key ABD projects:
Project Name | Description | Status |
Baradwari Multi-Level Parking | Constructing a multi-level parking facility to alleviate city centre congestion. | In Progress |
Achal Taal Development | Revitalising Achal Taal with an open-air theatre, boating, and commercial spaces. | In Progress |
Smart Road Upgrades | Enhancing roads with intelligent lighting and traffic management systems. | In Progress |
Integrated Waste Management System | Implementing a city-wide system for solid waste processing. | In Progress |
Naurangi Lal Inter College Renovation | Upgrading educational infrastructure for modern facilities. | In Progress |
Rasalganj Road Redevelopment | Improving carriageways, footpaths, and facades to boost commercial activity. | In Progress |
source: smartcities[dot]gov[dot]in
Presence Across Nation (PAN City) Projects
Aligarh is implementing several Pan-City projects under the Smart City Mission to enhance urban services across the entire city. These initiatives aim to improve infrastructure, governance, and public safety. Below is an overview of key Pan-City projects:
Project Name | Description |
Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) | Establishment of a unified centre to monitor city parameters, including surveillance cameras, adaptive traffic control systems, public announcement systems, and environmental sensors |
Smart Governance Portal and Mobile Application | Development of digital platforms to facilitate citizen engagement, service requests, and access to municipal services |
Intelligent Transport Management System | Implement systems to monitor and manage public transportation, including real-time tracking and information dissemination. |
City-Wide Surveillance System | Install 585 cameras at 63 junctions to enhance public safety and traffic management. |
Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) | Deployment of adaptive traffic signals at 20 junctions to optimise traffic flow and reduce congestion |
source: smartcities[dot]gov[dot]in
Geographical Location Details
Aligarh is implementing several projects under the Smart City Mission to enhance its geographical infrastructure and urban environment. Below is a table highlighting key improvements:
Improvement Area | Project Description | Status |
Urban Mobility | Development of smart roads with intelligent traffic management systems to improve transportation efficiency. | In Progress |
Public Spaces | Revitalising parks and public areas, including developing Jawahar Naqvi Park as a smart park. | In Progress |
Waste Management | Implementation of an integrated waste management system to achieve efficient solid waste processing. | In Progress |
Water Supply | Upgradation of water supply systems to ensure 24/7 availability and quality monitoring. | In Progress |
Sewage and Drainage | Improvement of sewage and drainage infrastructure to prevent waterlogging and enhance sanitation. | In Progress |
source: smartcities[dot]gov[dot]in
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Smart City Aligarh Map
The Aligarh Smart City Map clearly shows the city’s layout, including key roads, neighbourhoods, and important landmarks. It also marks essential facilities such as water supply zones, waste management areas, and traffic monitoring points, helping residents navigate the city more efficiently.
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source: mapsofindia
Citizen Services Offered by Aligarh Smart City Portal
The Aligarh Smart City portal makes it easier for residents to access essential services without the hassle of long waits or paperwork. Here’s what you can do online:
- Water Supply Services: Residents can efficiently handle water-related services, including bill payments, new connection applications, reconnection or disconnection requests, and plumber’s license applications.
- Property Tax Services: The portal simplifies property tax management by offering self-assessment tools, mutation applications for ownership changes, tax calculation, online payments, and access to payment history and receipts.
- Trade License Services: Business owners can apply for new trade licenses or request modifications to existing ones directly through the portal.
- Rent and Lease of Municipal Properties: Individuals seeking to rent or lease municipal properties can browse available spaces, review booking details, and submit applications online.
Additional Municipal Services: The portal extends services to birth and death certificate applications, water tanker bookings, septic and sewer tank cleaning requests, and property assessment applications. These services ensure citizens can efficiently manage their civic responsibilities without unnecessary delays.
FAQ’s about Smart City Aligarh
Q1. Is Aligarh on the Smart City list?
Aligarh is among the cities selected under India’s Smart Cities Mission. It was included in the list in June 2017, during the mission’s third phase.
Q2. Is Aligarh a metro city?
According to the Constitution of India, a metropolitan area has a population of 10 lakh (1 million) or more. As of 2025, Aligarh’s metro area population is approximately 1.38 million, which qualifies it as a metropolitan area.
Q3. What is the cost of living in Aligarh?
The cost of living in Aligarh is relatively low compared to other metropolitan cities. The estimated monthly expenses for a single person are around ₹86,090, while a family of four might expect monthly costs of approximately ₹140,376.