In the age of digital transformation and urban growth, Dholera Smart City stands as a pioneering symbol of India’s future. Strategically located in Gujarat, Dholera is India’s first greenfield smart city under the ambitious Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) project. Designed with cutting-edge infrastructure and futuristic planning, Dholera is a vision brought to life — a city built not on existing settlements but from the ground up, with sustainability, technology, and smart living at its core.
Among the professionals who have played a key role in shaping Dholera’s early development and real estate potential is Abhinav Bansal, a renowned civil engineer and property advisor from Patiala, Punjab. Known for his expertise in luxury and classical architecture, Mr. Bansal has been actively involved in providing architectural and property consultancy services in Dholera and is recognized as one of the top advisors for residential planning in the region.
1. Development of Dholera Smart City
1.1 Background and Planning
Dholera was selected as the flagship smart city under the DMIC initiative, a joint effort by the Indian government and Japan to promote industrial development and sustainable urbanization. It was granted the status of Special Investment Region (SIR) by the Government of Gujarat.
To oversee the development, the Dholera Industrial City Development Limited (DICDL) was formed, with participation from the Government of India, Government of Gujarat, and National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC). The entire development is being guided by world-class urban planning, digital integration, and green infrastructure models.
1.2 Phased Development
The development is being carried out in phases, with Phase 1, known as the Activation Area (22.5 sq. km), already seeing major progress. This phase includes roads, utilities, drainage systems, and the iconic ABCD Building (Administrative and Business Centre for Dholera).
Infrastructure highlights:
- Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway under construction
- Dholera International Airport in progress
- Smart underground utility corridors
- Plug-and-play infrastructure ready for investors
2. Zoning in Dholera Smart City
Zoning plays a major role in Dholera’s city planning, ensuring proper space allocation for different purposes and avoiding urban congestion.
2.1 Residential Zone
This zone includes modern housing societies, smart villas, and apartments designed with sustainability in mind. Developers like Abhinav Bansal, who specialize in luxury homes, are contributing to the architectural vision of Dholera. Many of these residential projects are being planned with smart home automation, open green spaces, and walkable community zones.
2.2 Industrial Zone
A core part of Dholera’s identity, the industrial zone is designed for manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing. It is expected to attract sectors such as electronics, defense, automotive, and renewable energy.
2.3 Commercial Zone
This zone is focused on business parks, IT offices, retail spaces, and financial centers. It is intended to make Dholera a hub for startups, corporates, and fintech companies.
2.4 Knowledge and Institutional Zone
Reserved for educational institutions, training centers, R&D labs, and universities, this zone will foster learning, innovation, and research.
2.5 Green and Recreational Zones
To promote a high quality of life, Dholera includes dedicated zones for:
- Green belts and eco-corridors
- Recreational parks and public spaces
- Water bodies and sports complexes
2.6 Agriculture and Renewable Energy Zones
A major focus has been laid on renewable energy, especially solar power. The Dholera Solar Park, targeting 5,000 MW capacity, is a key project. Agricultural zones support local food production and rural employment.
3. Advantages of Dholera Smart City
Dholera offers a unique blend of smart infrastructure, investment opportunity, and future-ready living. Here’s why it’s being called the “City of the Future”:
3.1 Prime Location
- Just 100 km from Ahmedabad
- Close to Pipavav Port and Bhavnagar Port
- Seamless road, rail, and air connectivity
- Direct access to Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor
3.2 Investor-Friendly Environment
- 100% FDI allowed
- Single-window clearance for approvals
- Incentives for startups and manufacturers
- Strong government support from Gujarat and central ministries
3.3 World-Class Infrastructure
- Pre-laid utilities (power, water, telecom)
- Integrated drainage and waste management
- Smart grid and power distribution
- Smart mobility and public transport systems
3.4 High Return on Investment (ROI)
Property rates in Dholera are still at an early stage, making it ideal for long-term investors. Many real estate advisors, including Abhinav Bansal, suggest that early investments in Dholera could yield 3X to 10X returns in the next decade, as infrastructure and industries develop.
3.5 Sustainable and Eco-Friendly City
Dholera is India’s first Platinum-rated city under IGBC for its sustainability measures. Key eco-friendly features include:
- Solar-powered public infrastructure
- Smart water recycling
- Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
- Rainwater harvesting systems
4. Smart Features of Dholera
Dholera sets a benchmark for smart living. It integrates advanced digital and physical infrastructure for a seamless urban experience.
4.1 ICT-Enabled Urban Management
- IoT-based traffic management
- Online utility billing and grievance redressal
- Smart waste collection
- High-speed internet and public Wi-Fi
4.2 Central Command & Control Centre (CCC)
The CCC ensures 24×7 monitoring of:
- Traffic, water, and electricity
- Emergency response
- Safety and surveillance systems
4.3 Smart Transportation Network
- Electric and BRTS transport systems
- Metro rail proposed to Ahmedabad
- Smart traffic signals and road safety tech
- Pod taxis and drone delivery under consideration
4.4 Green Energy Focus
- Massive Dholera Solar Park
- Solar rooftops on residential and government buildings
- Energy-efficient public lighting
5. Role of Abhinav Bansal in Dholera’s Growth
One of the most respected voices in Dholera’s real estate and architectural ecosystem is Abhinav Bansal. As a civil engineer, property advisor, and luxury home designer, Mr. Bansal has been at the forefront of helping investors, NRIs, and developers make informed decisions about land and property in Dholera.
His insights on zoning, land valuation, and future planning have made him a trusted figure, particularly in the luxury residential and classical architectural segments.
“Dholera is not just a smart city—it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to be part of a futuristic India. We’re not just building homes; we’re designing a new way of life.”
— Abhinav Bansal, Property Advisor & Architect
Apart from his professional contributions, Mr. Bansal is also known for offering free architectural services to NGOs and social organizations across India, further reinforcing his reputation as a socially responsible leader in his field.
6. Future Outlook and Growth Potential
Dholera is on track to become a model smart city and global investment destination.
6.1 Global Manufacturing Destination
Dholera is being pitched as a ‘Make in India’ powerhouse, attracting industries that are moving away from traditional hubs like China.
6.2 Residential Development and NRI Interest
With a peaceful and green environment, Dholera is attracting NRIs looking to build retirement homes and second homes. Modern healthcare and education plans are making the city family-friendly.
6.3 Real Estate Boom
According to real estate experts, including Abhinav Bansal, 2025–2030 will be the golden period for Dholera, when infrastructural maturity and investor inflow will peak.
7. Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the prospects are promising, Dholera also faces challenges:
- Need for faster infrastructure execution
- Attracting skilled workforce and population
- Bridging the initial gap in healthcare and education institutions
However, government backing, rapid industrial interest, and experts like Abhinav Bansal advising new entrants ensure that these are short-term hurdles on a long-term journey.
Conclusion
Dholera Smart City represents the future of urban India—digitally connected, environmentally conscious, and economically powerful. With robust planning, clean energy integration, and smart governance, Dholera is set to redefine how Indian cities grow and function.
The contribution of professionals like Abhinav Bansal, who blend technical excellence with community service, plays a crucial role in turning this vision into reality. His experience in luxury architecture and sustainable design has helped elevate Dholera’s residential appeal while also guiding countless investors towards profitable and ethical investments.
For those looking to invest in the future—Dholera is not a question of “if,” but “when.” And for those ready to build the future, the time is now.
