Nagpur: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has launched ‘Innovate for Nagpur City!’ competition to invite functional designs for solar rooftop sheds to be installed at major busy road intersections across the city to protect commuters from scorching sunlight, particularly during summer afternoons, at traffic signals and at the same time generate electricity.The NMC has invited entries from engineering students, working professionals, designers and consultants, and offers to reward top three designs with cash prizes.The idea was mooted by mayor Neeta Thakre and standing committee chairperson Shivani Dani Wakhare during a high-level meeting, also attended by deputy mayor Leela Hathibed, ruling party leader Narendra Borkar, municipal commissioner Vipin Itankar and additional commissioner Vasumana Pant. The project will be implemented by the NMC’s traffic department.The installation of solar sheds at busy signals is aimed at providing relief to motorists waiting at red signal during peak summer afternoons and also generate electricity to promote environmental sustainability, and create space for advertisers on signboards while enhancing the city’s visual appeal.The NMC said it aims to involve citizens in the city’s development by seeking innovative ideas. The civic body has decided to give Rs25,000 as first prize, Rs21,000 to the second best entry and Rs17,000 to the third best idea.In addition to the cash rewards, the winners will have the opportunity to discuss their concepts with the first citizen of Nagpur, mayor Neeta Thakre, during a special ‘Coffee with Mayor’ session.The entries need to be submitted between April 6 to April 20. Shortlisted designs would be displayed on April 24 at the NMC Headquarters. Design entries are to be sent to eetrafficnmc01@gmail.com.
