Mukesh Ambani’s RIL is building a world-class city near Delhi-NCR, details inside

The smart city being built by billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s RIL subsidiary is spread over an area of 8,000 acres.

India’s richest person Mukesh Ambani has rapidly made Reliance Industries Ltd a business conglomerate with the most diverse interests. RIL subsidiary Model Economic Township Limited or MET City is currently in the midst of constructing a world-class smart city from scratch near the national capital region.

The new greenfield city is being developed in Haryana’s Jhajjar near Gurugram, a key Delhi NCR economic region. The city is being built over an area of 8,000 acres of land. Infrastructure like a 220 KV power substation, water supply network and treatment plant and a wide network of roads are already in place.

Currently, the new Reliance smart city is home to 4 Japanese giants – Nihon Kohden, Panasonic, Denso and T-Suzuki. Nihon Kohden’s under-construction facility will be its biggest manufacturing unit in India. MET City is also a Japan Industrial Township.

As per MET City CEO SV Goyal, the company has over 400 industrial customers. They have built a “walk-to-work masterplan” in what is “one of the fastest growing Greenfield Smart Cities in North India”. The city also offers plug-n-play infrastructure to companies who set up units there.

The highlights of the new Reliance city include strong connectivity to Delhi, Gurugram, Noida and other cities in the region. The city is strategically located along the Kundli Manesar Palwal (KMP) Expressway and near New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. It will have rail connectivity with the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC).

As per MET City website, it offers “ready availability of freehold land for immediate development”. In terms of educational facilities, the SGT University and The Sehwag School (run by former cricketer) Virender Sehwag lie in the vicinity of the city. There is also an AIIMS facility nearby.

Key Features of MET City Smart Cities

1. Sustainability at the Core: MET City is set to redefine urban living through its emphasis on sustainability. The city’s layout, architecture, and infrastructure are being meticulously designed to minimize environmental impact and maximize resource efficiency. Green spaces, renewable energy sources, and efficient waste management systems are key components of this sustainable approach.
2. Technological Integration: The smart city concept hinges on the integration of technology into various aspects of urban life. MET City is embracing cutting-edge technologies to create a connected ecosystem. Smart infrastructure, digital services, and data-driven decision-making are poised to enhance the quality of life for residents.
3. Mixed-Use Development: A hallmark of modern urban planning, MET City is designed as a mixed-use development. This means that residential, commercial, recreational, and institutional spaces coexist in close proximity. This approach not only reduces the need for long commutes but also fosters vibrant communities where residents can work, live, and play.
4. Urban Mobility: Addressing the challenges of urban congestion and pollution, MET City emphasizes sustainable mobility solutions. Pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling paths, and efficient public transportation systems are expected to reduce dependence on private vehicles and promote cleaner modes of commuting.
5. Quality Infrastructure: Reliance’s commitment to excellence extends to the infrastructure of MET City. High-quality roads, water supply systems, sanitation facilities, and advanced communication networks are being established to create a seamless urban experience for the residents.
6. Community Engagement: MET City aims to foster a sense of community through carefully planned social spaces and amenities. Parks, recreational facilities, community centres, and cultural spaces are being integrated to encourage interaction and a shared sense of belonging among residents.

Potential Impact on Urban Development

1. Showcasing Sustainability: MET City serves as a model for sustainable urban development. As the world grapples with environmental challenges, this project demonstrates the potential of integrating eco-friendly practices into urban planning. Its success could inspire similar initiatives across the country and beyond.
2. Economic Growth: The construction and development of MET City generate economic activity, providing jobs and opportunities for local communities. Additionally, the city’s mixed-use nature could attract businesses, contributing to economic growth and diversification.
3. Technology Adoption: The technological integration within MET City sets a precedent for the adoption of smart solutions in urban areas. As other cities witness the benefits of such technologies, they may be motivated to invest in their own smart city initiatives.
4. Quality of Life Enhancement: The emphasis on quality infrastructure, urban mobility, and community spaces in MET City has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for its residents. This approach could serve as a blueprint for other urban projects aiming to prioritize resident well-being.

MET City by Reliance Industries Ltd. under the leadership of Mukesh Ambani marks a remarkable step towards shaping the future of urban living in India. This Greenfield smart city project embodies the principles of sustainability, technology integration, and community engagement. Its potential impact on urban development extends beyond its physical boundaries. As MET City pioneers new concepts and practices, it has the potential to inspire similar endeavours across the nation, fostering sustainable urbanization, economic growth, and enhanced quality of life for residents. With this visionary initiative, Reliance is not just building a city; it is laying the foundation for a smarter, more sustainable urban future.