The city has won the Global Award for Sustainable Development in Cities (Shanghai Award). Thiruvananthapuram is the first Indian city to receive the award that was introduced in 2023. Five cities were selected for this year's award.

It is a global initiative led by UN-Habitat and Shanghai municipality, specifically targeting cities. The award is dedicated to recognising the outstanding progress and achievements of cities and municipalities in the implementation of the ‘2030 agenda' as well as ‘New Urban Agenda'.

The award was received by mayor Arya Rajendran and Smart City CEO Rahul Sharma at a ceremony held in Alexandria, Egypt.

Thiruvananthapuram corporation was selected after analysing the unique situations, opportunities, challenges, resources, and capacities of the state capital and the civic body's efforts in sustainable urbanisation.

Some of the important sustainable development projects undertaken by the city corporation include the installation of 17,000 KW solar panels, 2,000 solar streetlights, converting all streetlights to LED lights, 115 electric buses, delivery of 100 e-autos to unemployed youths, and 35 e-scooters for the corporation's use.

In the previous years, cities like Brisbane (Australia) and Salvador (Brazil) have won the award.

Minister M B Rajesh congratulated the corporation for winning the award, a global recognition for sustainable development.

The achievement is a matter of pride for the state. The corporation has undertaken numerous initiatives that can serve as a model for all cities. It is exciting that these efforts gained global recognition, he said. The minister extended greetings to the governing body led by mayor Arya Rajendran, the officials, and the residents of Thiruvananthapuram.