The redesign and redevelopment of back lanes or conservancy lanes in Indian cities under the Smart City Mission of Government of India, coordinated by the respective Smart City Corporations of each city, are some of most apt examples of public private collaborated projects in cities that have transformed defunct and discarded public spaces into vital zones of citizen engagement. A back lane or conservancy lane is generally a narrow lane that passes through the backsides of plots and carries sewerage and waste into the city’s main channels. It is often characterized by filthy conditions and are zones never frequented by citizens. This report examines three such case study projects from cities spanning the breadth of the country – Jabalpur, Shivamogga and Jaipur. The case studies portray how such back lanes have been transformed with innovation and creativity by the city authorities into vibrant spaces of community aggregation.

The conceptualization and execution of these projects are exemplary and showcase strong elements of inclusivity and innovation. However, there are possibilities of revisit and introspection on aspects of how these zones can continue to remain lively in future through innovative models of operations and maintenance. This report brings out the key benefits and details of these projects. The report also puts forth the finding out of primary surveys based on 06 indicators and 38 variables that try to evaluate aspects of environmental, economic, social and institutional impact of these projects. It discusses the findings capturing opinions of citizens and officials. This report attempts to study back lanes or conservancy improvement projects and bring out their key achievements, and future scope of improvement.