Surat Set to Become India’s First Slum-Free City Through Inclusive Urban Planning

Surat’s Slum-Free Vision and Urban Strategy

Surat , popularly known as India’s Diamond Capital , is on the verge of achieving a landmark urban milestone by becoming the country’s first fully slum-free city. Officials from the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) have stated that the city is close to ensuring permanent, safe housing for every family, effectively eliminating the need for informal slum settlements. The city’s strategy has centred on large-scale in-situ redevelopment , under which existing slum clusters are replaced with planned multi-storey housing at the same location. This ensures that residents are not displaced far from workplaces, schools, and social networks.

Role of Housing Schemes and Infrastructure Upgrade

A major contributor to Surat’s progress has been the effective implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) , complemented by Gujarat’s state-level housing initiatives. Thousands of affordable homes have been built for economically weaker sections and low-income households. These housing units are integrated with essential urban infrastructure such as piped water supply, underground drainage, paved internal roads, street lighting, and solid waste management, significantly improving quality of life and urban hygiene.

Managing Migration and Industrial Growth

Surat’s achievement is particularly notable given its rapid industrial expansion in textiles and diamond processing, which attracts a large migrant workforce every year. Despite continuous population inflow, municipal records indicate that lakhs of residents have been rehabilitated into permanent housing over the last few years. Urban planners now view Surat as a rare example of a city that has balanced industrial growth with inclusive housing and social equity.

Important Facts for Exams

• Surat is a major hub for diamond polishing and textile manufacturing

• In-situ redevelopment rebuilds housing at the original slum location

• PMAY aims to achieve “Housing for All” through central assistance

• Urban local bodies are key implementing agencies for slum rehabilitation