Dholera SIR is one of India’s most visionary urban development projects. Designed entirely on undeveloped land, it represents a new approach to building future cities—modern, sustainable, technologically advanced, and economically forward-looking. As part of the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), this region is becoming a major economic gateway and a model for India’s next generation of urban planning.
Overview of Dholera SIR
Dholera SIR (Special Investment Region) spans a vast area of about 920 sq. km, making it one of the largest planned regions in the country. It is created as a greenfield city, which means it is developed from scratch without the constraints that come from old or congested urban areas. This gives planners the freedom to design wide roads, balanced zoning, sustainable infrastructure, and modern utilities according to international standards.
The region’s master plan includes well-defined residential areas, industrial clusters, commercial zones, knowledge parks, tourism areas, public spaces, and green belts. Town Planning schemes ensure that development happens in a systematic, transparent, and people-friendly manner. Because of this structured layout, Dholera is expected to support millions of residents and hundreds of thousands of jobs in the future.
Technological and Sustainable Features
Technology and sustainability are two pillars that set Dholera apart from many other upcoming regions in India.
1. Fully Integrated ICT System
The city is planned with a digital backbone that connects various services. This includes:
- Real-time monitoring of utilities
- Smart sensors for traffic and street lighting
- ICT-enabled management for water, sewage, and security
- Online governance and service delivery
This interconnected system helps the city operate more efficiently and improves the quality of life for residents and businesses.
2. Dig-Free Utility Infrastructure
One of the most advanced features is the underground utility corridor. Instead of laying cables and pipelines separately, all essential utilities—gas, power, ICT cables, water, sewage, and stormwater—are organized in a single underground network. This innovation eliminates the need for frequent road digging, reduces maintenance time, and keeps the surface environment clean and well-structured.
3. Environmentally Conscious Urban Design
Dholera is designed to be one of the most sustainable urban regions in India. Key features include:
- 100% wastewater collection and recycling
- Rainwater harvesting systems across the city
- Energy-efficient LED street lighting
- Smart meters for power and water
- Landscape areas and open green zones for ecological balance
The region aims to reduce pollution, cut energy consumption, and create a greener and healthier living environment.
Economic and Industrial Potential
Dholera has been highlighted as a major investment hub because of its strategic position and massive industrial potential.
1. Prime Location on DMIC
Situated along the Delhi–Mumbai Industrial Corridor, the region benefits from one of India’s most important industrial networks. Its location creates opportunities for trade, manufacturing, exports, and logistics. Easy connectivity to ports, cities, and freight routes makes it ideal for industries looking for efficient transportation links.
2. Dedicated Industrial Zones
The development plan includes land designated for:
- Electronics and semiconductor units
- Engineering and manufacturing industries
- Defence and aerospace
- Renewable energy
- Pharmaceuticals and chemical industries
- Large-scale logistics and warehousing
These sectors are expected to bring high-value investments and long-term employment opportunities.
3. Airport and Expressway Connectivity
Two major infrastructure projects significantly enhance the economic strength of the region:
- Dholera International Airport, which will support both cargo and passenger movement
- Ahmedabad–Dholera Expressway, improving travel efficiency and business access
With these projects, companies will find it easy to operate, transport goods, and connect with domestic and global markets.
Smart Infrastructure
Dholera is developed to match world-class smart city standards.
1. Modern Road Network
The roads are built following national and international guidelines. Key features include:
- Wide lanes for smooth mobility
- Separate lanes for cycling
- Footpaths and shaded pedestrian pathways
- Smart traffic systems for safety and flow
- LED lighting and surveillance
This ensures a safe and efficient transport experience for citizens.
2. Water and Wastewater Systems
The city uses advanced systems to ensure responsible water usage. SCADA-based automation manages water flow, recycling, and storage. Treated water is reused for landscaping and industrial applications, reducing wastage and protecting natural water sources.
3. Power Infrastructure
Reliable, uninterrupted power is a core requirement for industries. The region is supported by renewable energy projects, including one of India’s largest solar parks. Smart grids and smart meters help in providing high-quality and energy-efficient services to businesses and residents.
4. Citywide Services
A connected urban environment ensures that:
- Governance services are available digitally
- Maintenance and emergency response systems are efficient
- Surveillance enhances public safety
- Utilities are monitored and billed accurately
These features raise the overall liveability standards and make the city attractive for both families and businesses.
Environmental and Social Impact
Dholera has been planned with strong consideration for environmental protection and community development.
1. Green and Open Spaces
Large open areas, parks, and landscaped zones help maintain ecological balance. These spaces improve air quality, reduce heat levels, and contribute to residents’ well-being.
2. Efficient Resource Management
The city’s approach to recycling, waste conversion, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy reduces environmental stress. Sustainable use of resources helps preserve the region for future generations.
3. Community Growth and Employment
The project is expected to support millions of residents as it grows. With major industries setting up operations, employment opportunities will expand across fields such as engineering, technology, services, hospitality, logistics, and small businesses. This will strengthen local communities and uplift the overall standard of living.
Future Prospects
Dholera has strong long-term potential and is steadily moving toward becoming a major urban and industrial center.
1. Activation Area Progress
The first phase of development includes a dedicated activation area where infrastructure is reaching completion. This zone will serve as the launchpad for early industries, commercial establishments, and residential clusters.
2. Growing Investor Interest
As more infrastructure becomes operational, investor confidence is rising. The airport, expressway, smart infrastructure, and large industrial zones offer attractive long-term growth opportunities.
3. Model for Future Indian Cities
Dholera aims to become a benchmark for how future cities in India can be planned. With clean energy systems, smart governance, sustainable design, and efficient mobility, it showcases what modern urban development can look like.
4. Economic and Social Transformation
Over the coming decades, the region is expected to transform into a thriving ecosystem of industries, education centers, technology hubs, tourism facilities, and residential communities. This makes it one of the most promising growth corridors in the country.
Conclusion
Dholera SIR stands at the forefront of India’s vision for modern, sustainable, and future-ready cities. As the country’s first fully planned greenfield city, it combines smart infrastructure, strong industrial potential, environmental balance, and technological innovation. With major connectivity projects and structured development already underway, it is set to become a major location for businesses, residents, and global investors. Dholera represents not just an urban project but a long-term commitment to building a progressive, efficient, and vibrant region for the future.
