Dholera, located in Gujarat, India, is emerging as a beacon of modern urban development. As the country’s first planned smart city under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project, Dholera is transforming into a hub of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. This article delves into the various facets that make Dholera a city of smarter opportunities.
Strategic Location and Vision
Dholera is situated within the Dholera Special Investment Region (DSIR), encompassing approximately 920 square kilometers. Its strategic location near major ports and highways positions it as a pivotal center for trade and industry. The vision for Dholera is to create an economically and socially balanced, new-age greenfield smart industrial city with world-class infrastructure, sustaining a high quality of life that is green and sustainable.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
The city is designed with state-of-the-art infrastructure, including robust transportation networks and utilities. Notable projects enhancing Dholera’s connectivity include:
- Dholera International Airport: A greenfield airport project near Navagam in the Dholera taluka of Ahmedabad district, enhancing global connectivity and driving economic growth in the region.
- Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway: A four-lane (expandable to eight) access-controlled expressway under construction, improving regional connectivity and facilitating swift movement between Ahmedabad and Dholera.
- Bhimnath–Dholera Freight Rail Network: A proposed railway line from Bhimnath to Dholera, aiming to bolster freight movement and industrial logistics.
Economic Opportunities
Dholera offers a plethora of investment opportunities across various sectors:
- Manufacturing and Industry: As part of the DMIC, Dholera is envisioned as a global manufacturing hub, attracting industries ranging from automobiles to electronics. Dholera
- Semiconductor and Electronics: The region is gaining attention from major corporations. Notably, Tata is set to establish India’s first chip fabrication unit in Dholera, marking a significant milestone in the country’s semiconductor industry.
- Renewable Energy: Dholera is making strides in sustainable energy with the development of an Ultra-Mega Solar Park with a capacity of 4,400 MW. Phase-1 of 1,000 MW is under implementation, with 300 MW already commissioned by Tata Power.
Sustainable Urban Development
The planning of Dholera emphasizes sustainability and smart solutions:
- Green Infrastructure: The city integrates eco-friendly technologies, smart grids, and renewable energy sources to minimize its carbon footprint.
- Smart Governance: Utilizing advanced technologies, Dholera aims for efficient service delivery, transparent administration, and active citizen engagement.
- Quality of Life: With meticulously planned residential, commercial, and recreational zones, Dholera ensures a high standard of living for its residents.
Global Collaborations and Future Prospects
Dholera’s potential has attracted international attention:
- International Investments: In 2023, South Korean firms visited Dholera SIR to explore business opportunities, indicating growing global interest in the region.
- Hospitality Sector: The government has allocated a 12,095 square meter plot for the first 5-star hotel in the region, with the e-auction for the plot scheduled for June 2023, signaling growth in the hospitality industry. Wikipedia
