In Vadodara, the recent actions by the Municipal Corporation have raised eyebrows after asphalt was laid directly over paver blocks as part of road patchwork in Ward No. 14, near Narsingh Ji Temple. This incident has sparked a wave of criticism from residents and local officials, who are questioning the “smart” strategies being employed under the city’s Smart City initiative. The decision to overlay asphalt on paver blocks is being seen as a costly and inefficient method, as it undermines both the utility of the blocks and the durability of the new surface.
Many have expressed frustration, pointing out that the city’s funds could have been better utilized in more sustainable infrastructure improvements. This incident adds to concerns about other Smart City projects in Vadodara, some of which have faced scrutiny regarding poor planning and execution. While the Smart City initiative aims to modernize urban infrastructure, such moves risk eroding public trust in the program, raising concerns about how the city’s development goals are being pursued.
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As Vadodara continues its journey toward becoming a “Smart City,” it is clear that better oversight and more thoughtful planning are needed to ensure that resources are used effectively for the long-term benefit of its residents​.