Top five planned cities in India

India is home to some of the world’s most impressive, planned cities. These cities reflect a perfect blend of rich heritage and modernity, embodying the country’s trajectory towards a futuristic urban vision. This article explores the top five planned cities in India, their infrastructure, cost of living, and employment opportunities.

See also: Top 10 cleanest cities in India

 

Chandigarh

 

Chandigarh is known for its urban planning and striking architecture. It was designed by Le Corbusier, a Swiss-French architect. It has broad roads, abundant green spaces and clearly segregated residential and commercial sectors. As the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh emerges as a hotspot for job seekers. Designed by Nek Chand, the Rock Garden in Chandigarh is famous for its sculptures made of scrap items.

How to reach?

By air: The nearest airport is the Chandigarh International Airport. The airport has regular flights from all major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, etc.

By train: The Chandigarh Railway Station is its main station. Regular trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Kolkata, and other major Indian cities halt at this station.

By road: The city has well-maintained highways that directly connect it to cities like Delhi, Shimla, Manali and Amritsar. Luxury buses operated by both the state transportation and private operators run on these routes.

By bus: Chandigarh is well-connected by a network of buses to neighbouring cities and states. The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking operates regular buses from the city to places like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The main bus terminus is the Inter State Bus Terminal in Sector 17.

Cost of living in Chandigarh

The cost of living in Chandigarh is reasonably moderate compared to other major cities in India. This encompasses the expense for accommodation, food, transportation, healthcare, and other miscellaneous needs. The accommodation cost changes according to the area, with the city centre being more expensive than the outlying areas. The public transportation system is well-developed and affordable, making it cheaper for commuting. Despite this, owning a vehicle is common here. Groceries and dining out are also affordable due to the city’s extensive agricultural output. However, the cost of living can increase or decrease, depending upon lifestyle and choices.

Real estate in Chandigarh

This city offers a range of property options from high-end luxury apartments and villas to more affordable housing. Prime locations like sector 1 to 30 are more expensive compared to the newly developed and peripheral areas.

 

Gandhinagar

 

Established in 1960, Gandhinagar is named after Mahatma Gandhi. Its wide roads, availability of ample open spaces, well-organised residential areas and commercial zones reflect meticulous urban planning and development.

How to reach

By air: The nearest airport to Gandhinagar is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, roughly 18 km.

By rail: It has its railway station, Gandhinagar Capital, well-connected with the rest of India through various trains. You can reach Gandhinagar by train from major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, etc. The railway station is a convenient option as it is in the city and directly connects to the local transport services.

By road: The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates regular bus services from Gandhinagar to many cities in Gujarat and neighbouring states. There are also numerous private bus operators that run luxury buses, sleeper buses to Gandhinagar.

Cost of living

The cost of living in Gandhinagar is relatively moderate compared to other Indian cities. This includes expenses on housing, groceries, transportation, health services, and leisure activities. It offers high standard of living with affordability, making it an ideal place for both working professionals and retirees. Additionally, the city has a lower cost of education and health services compared to other major cities in India. However, the actual cost of living can vary depending on lifestyle, type of accommodation, and other individual preferences.

Real estate in Gandhinagar

The city has seen a steady growth in real estate business due to its planned infrastructure, clean environment, and strategic location. It offers property options ranging from affordable housing units to high-end luxury apartments. The commercial real estate sector is also booming, with an increase in demand for office space and retail outlets.

 

Navi Mumbai 

 

Navi Mumbai, planned to decongest Mumbai, is one of the largest planned cities in India. It has well-structured roads, bridges, and rapid transit system. Its planning was focused on creating ample commercial activities and job opportunities to attract residents. Today, Navi Mumbai houses many multinational companies and offers a multitude of job opportunities.

How to reach

By air: The nearest airport is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, around 30 km from here. The upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport would further enhance accessibility to this city.

By rail: Navi Mumbai is well-connected to the entire country via the Indian Railways. The nearest railway station is the Panvel railway station, a major junction in the Mumbai Suburban Railway. Further, the Harbour Line of the Mumbai Suburban Railway directly connects Navi Mumbai to Mumbai and other parts of Maharashtra.

By road: Reaching Navi Mumbai by road is a convenient option as the city is located close to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the Eastern Freeway, and the NH-48. Regular state-run and private buses run between Navi Mumbai and other cities.

Cost of living in Navi Mumbai

The city offers a mix of luxury and budget-living options. The cost of residential properties is lower than Mumbai, a plus point for those looking to settle here. However, the cost of utilities, groceries and transportation is somewhat like other major cities.

Real estate in Navi Mumbai

The average price per square feet in Navi Mumbai currently ranges from Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000, depending on the location and amenities available. Popular areas for real estate investment are Kharghar, Panvel, Vashi and Ulwe. The real estate sector in Navi Mumbai promises high returns due to the proposed international airport and other infrastructural developments.

 

Naya Raipur

 

Naya Raipur, also known as Atal Nagar, is another well-planned city in India, situated in Chhattisgarh. The city is developed with state-of-the-art infrastructure and aims to accommodate around 4.5 Lakh people in future. It is the country’s first greenfield smart city built from the ground up and is planned meticulously to cater to the demands of the urban population. It is planned with sector-wide roads, a separate cycling track and an effective public transportation system.

The city holds residential and commercial areas, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and entertainment zones. It also includes an iconic central vista, administrative centre, where all government offices are located. The plan includes a logistics hub, treasure island, jungle safari, and cricket stadium, projecting Naya Raipur as a well-planned advanced city.

How to reach

By road: Naya Raipur has direct link to NH-53 and NH-30. Also, private cab and state-run bus services run regularly between Naya Raipur and other cities.

By air: The Swami Vivekananda Airport situated around 15 km from Naya Raipur is the nearest airport. This airport is well-connected with direct flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bangalore, etc.

By rail: The Raipur Railway Station is the nearest one. From Raipur station, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Naya Raipur, around 20 km.

Public transport

The city’s transportation system is quite efficient, with city buses running on various routes. Apart from regular buses, there are also electric auto-rickshaws available in Naya Raipur, providing a sustainable mode of transport within the city.

Real estate in Naya Raipur

The city offers a variety of properties including residential plots, apartments, villas, and commercial spaces.

Cost of living in Naya Raipur

As a newly developed city, the cost of living in Naya Raipur is reasonable compared to other developed cities in India. The affordability coupled with the potential for growth makes Naya Raipur an upcoming hotspot for both residents and investors.

 

Bhubaneswar

 

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, was planned by German architect Otto Konigsberger. Known for its temples, parks, and spacious infrastructure, Bhubaneswar offers various job opportunities, particularly in the IT and manufacturing sectors. Despite being a planned city with good infrastructure, the cost of living in Bhubaneswar is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for many.

How to reach

By air: The Bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik Airport is linked to regular flights to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore.

By rail: The Bhubaneswar Railway Station is directly connected to key locations across India.

By road: The NH-16 and NH-55 pass through Bhubaneswar, making it easily reachable by road.

Cost of living

Rent for a 1-2 BHK apartment ranges between Rs 5,000 and Rs 15,000 per month, depending on the area. Meals at budget restaurants are available for around Rs 200. Public transport is also economical with city buses and auto-rickshaws being the main modes of transportation. Groceries, leisure activities and healthcare facilities are reasonably priced too. However, individual cost can vary based on lifestyle, preferences, and choices.

Real estate in Bhubaneshwar

The real estate market in Bhubaneswar ranges from affordable housing to luxury apartments and villas. Areas like Patia, Khandagiri and Saheed Nagar are witnessing a steady growth in residential property rates. The city also has a flourishing commercial real estate sector, with offices and retail spaces in high demand. Property prices can fluctuate based on the location, amenities, and size of the property. It’s advisable to research thoroughly or consult a reputed real estate agent before investing.

 

FAQs

What is a planned city in India?

A planned city in India is one that has been meticulously designed and developed according to a preconceived urban plan.

What are the key features of planned cities in India?

Planned cities in India exhibit several key features, including well-structured road networks, designated zones for various purposes, ample green space, efficient public transportation system and a focus on sustainability and environmental considerations.

Which is the first planned city in India?

Chandigarh is the first planned city in India.

What are the advantages of living in a planned city in India?

Living in a planned city in India offers several advantages, such as organised and efficient infrastructure, better access to public amenities, reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality and well-maintained urban environment.

Are planned cities in India only for residential purposes?

Planned cities are designed to accommodate a diverse range of activities, including commercial, industrial, educational, and recreational space. The balanced mix of different zones ensures a comprehensive urban environment that caters to various needs and promotes sustainable urban development.

 

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com