On 4 February, 2025, a delegation from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) visited Rajkot to see the city’s efforts in sustainable development. The group was led by Head of Cooperation, SDC India, Philippe Sas, and Co-Head of Climate, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Environment, SDC Berne, Chantal Felder, along with other key members of SDC.

One of the main stops was the Ground Water Recharge Structure at Racecourse, a project by the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) supported by the CapaCITIES project. The delegation praised the project for helping reduce flooding and recharge groundwater. The success of this project has led RMC to expand it to over 180 sites, funded by the city itself.

The delegation also visited the Grid-Connected Solar PV System at the Aji Water Treatment Plant. Rajkot has been using solar energy to reduce the electricity costs of water treatment. The 145 kWp solar system installed in 2019 now meets 18%-20% of the plant’s energy needs. Another solar system of 250 kWp has also been set up at the Sewage Treatment Plant. RMC is planning to increase the use of renewable energy in the city’s facilities in the next budget.

Another program discussed was the Rajkot Green Mobility Zone, which helps promote electric auto use. Through this program, 100 people received subsidies to buy electric autos, and the delegation met some of the beneficiaries to learn about the program’s impact on transportation and emissions.

The visit also included a meeting with Municipal Commissioner, Tushar Sumera, and Deputy Municipal Commissioners to talk about the city’s Net-Zero Climate Resilient City Action Plan. They discussed ways to improve coordination between different departments, local priorities, and the city’s goals to reduce carbon emissions and become more climate-resilient.

This visit highlighted how Rajkot is progressing in sustainable urban development and climate resilience, setting an example for other cities.