It’s pouring awards for the state-run Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) for the promotion of renewable source of energy, water supply system and smart grids in the country.
This would mark the first ever time that a civic body would be honored with seven prestigious awards from the Indian Governments for their good water supply system and efficient use of renewable sources including solar rooftop power plants and smart grids
An official source told that the 4 most prestigious awards camde from Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) – that is the Vishwakarma Award 2017 given along with the Indian construction sector. Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) had submitted four nominations. Interestingly, all the four submissions were not only accepted, but they are also to be awarded trophy, medal and certificate.
On March 7, the Surat Municipal Corporation civic body would be awarded at the Niti Ayog in New Delhi. They would be honored for their efficient 24×7 water supply system with excellent consumer satisfaction, GRID networking for water supply, French wells to meet the increasing water demands and for their solar plants connected to rooftop grid.
Surat Municipal Corporation would receive its other award – India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) on March 9th in New Delhi. India Smart Grid Forum is a partnership between private-public sectors; it accelerates innovative policies and regulates promotion of smart grids and renewable energy in India.
The civic body has bagged two other awards at the national level, including the use of solar power for numerous municipal services and the use of wind energy for efficient water supply system.
K H Khatwani, Additional City Engineer in an interview with Times of India (TOI) said, “We are proud to win seven awards, and this has been possible due to the able leadership of municipal commissioner M Thennarasan.”
He further added, “The SMC has been doing exemplary work in renewable energy and water supply system for the last couple of years. Compared to other cities, we received maximum rooftop solar plant applications from residents.”
Surat Municipal Corporation’s Role as a Provider
- Underground sewage system for the entire city
- Potable water supply
- An Efficient Development & Urban Planning
- All weather roads
- Excellent Health coverage to citizens, paying more focus on the poor
- Sustainable and Efficient solid waste management
- Library facility & Primary education to all
- Places of recreation and healthy entertainment
- Green, pollution free and clean environment
- Fire Service
- Upgradation of the basic amenities in the existing slums & offering alternative accommodation
Surat Municipal Corporation’s Role as Facilitator
- Active peoples’ participation
- Industrial growth
- Health services
- Cultural activities
- Higher education & research
- Sports & games
- Recreation & Entertainment
- Trade and commerce