Sustainability of integrated control and command centers

Abstract

India's Smart Cities Mission, launched in 2015, aims to improve urban infrastructure and services to improve the quality of life of the citizens. To meet this aim, it is endeavored to optimize city management through real-time data analysis, integrating various systems for informed decision-making. Accordingly, Integrated Control and Command Centers (ICCCs) are established in Indian Smart Cities to serve as the central hub for city operations. ICCCs provide a collaborative framework where input from different departments of city municipality and other city-level authorities such as transport, water, fire, police, etc. are assimilated and analyzed on a single platform. It facilitates in developing aggregated city level information. Further this aggregated city level information is converted to actionable intelligence, which is propagated to relevant stakeholders and citizens. To sustain the operation of ICCCs, a comprehensive strategy is imperative. This requires diversified revenue streams through facility leasing, advertising, and fine-sharing, alongside attracting private investment and exploring innovative financing. An example in this context is that of Gujarat provincial government, which has approved sharing revenue collection from traffic management for sustainability of ICCCs. Cities like Rajkot and Surat are monetizing their optical fibre networks, expecting significant revenue to support their ICCCs. Besides, strong local collaboration and citizen engagement are crucial, as well as, robust cyber security, data privacy compliance, and continuous technological adaptation, leveraging artificial intelligence. Compliance with the objective for which ICCCs are established depend on the strategy for sustainability of these centers.