Authors

• Nilanjana Dasgupta Sur, Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning, School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi
• Saoni Sanyal, Student, Department of Urban Planning, School of Planning and Architecture, Delhi

The paper critically examines the role of Integrated Command and Control Centres (ICCCs) in addressing environmental challenges within rapidly urbanising Indian cities. It emphasises the need for a holistic approach to urban management that integrates environmental considerations due to the strain on natural resources and ecosystems as urban areas expand. Additionally, the study delves into the importance of a maturity assessment framework in enhancing environmental surveillance and management across sectors. This framework enables cities to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in environmental monitoring and management. Furthermore, the study analyses six live city demonstrations based on the maturity assessment framework, providing valuable insights into how cities are utilising ICCC capabilities to enhance environmental sustainability. Based on the findings from these demonstrations, the study identifies several key challenges in environmental monitoring and surveillance within ICCC services in Indian cities. To achieve full ICCC services in environmental monitoring and surveillance, the study recommends better implementation of their functionality in India by taking lessons from global practices in environmental surveillance.