France indicates interest in helping make Nagpur a 'smart city'

France has evinced interest in partnering with Nagpur to make it a 'smart city'. This was indicated by French Consul General for Western India Jean Raphael Peytregnet, who is on his two-day visit to Nagpur.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced plans to create 100 smart cities across the country and France has offered its expertise, men, and material in urban development to build "new age" cities and plans to send a visiting team of prominent architects to Nagpur to "explore possibilities".

Accompanied by the French Trade Commissioner of Consulate General Matthieu Lefort, Peytregnet said that the basic objective would be to "explore possibilities" of co-operation in urban development. Since each city has a different requirement, there is nothing specific in mind, though tailor-made solutions could be offered, he said.

Peytregnet said that New Delhi would host a convention of architects later in November, when a French team would eventually visit Nagpur. Apart from exploring options in Mumbai and the national capital, they will also be urged to visit other Indian cities, he said.

"There is immense scope for developing modern infrastructure in India. We will be calling on officials of various municipalities and civic bodies across the country to look for tie-ups. Nagpur being in the heart of the country is very much on our mind," he said.

The Consul General met Nagpur Mayor Pravin Datke, his deputy Munna Pokulwar, Municipal Commissioner Shyam Wardhane and past mayor Anil Sole to discuss issues related to the 'smart city' concept.