The Mukhyamantri Smart City Yojana (MSCY) will be launched shortly, with 15 municipalities and five notified area councils (NACs) slated for development in the first phase, a senior official from the state Urban Development department said. The initiative was announced by the chief minister during the recent budget session and carries an allocation of Rs one billion (Rs 1 bn) for the current financial year. The department is finalising the plan’s framework ahead of the formal launch. The scheme aims to comprehensively redevelop urban areas by upgrading roads, transportation links, electrification and drinking water supply while enhancing parks and other civic amenities to improve quality of life for urban residents. Officials indicated that afforestation will be prioritised to maintain ecological balance within urban zones. Areas that face stormwater drainage issues will receive dedicated drainage infrastructure as part of the first-phase works. Technical teams will conduct surveys and public consultations to finalise project designs and priorities. Beautification measures are expected to include installation of statues of prominent local figures at major intersections together with decorative lighting to enliven public spaces. Parks will be equipped with recreational facilities intended to promote public health and leisure among city dwellers. Broader infrastructure upgrades form part of the smart city transformation and complementary beautification efforts across municipal areas. The senior official added that the final decision on which 15 municipalities and five notified area councils will be covered in the initial phase remains pending as technical surveys and consultations continue. Implementation timelines and tendering plans will be announced after the plan framework is completed and clearances obtained. Funding disbursement and procurement norms will follow state financial rules and standard tender procedures. The department signalled that further phases may expand the programme based on lessons from the first rollout.