SSC-CGL (TIER-III) - Urbanisation in India
Category : SSC
URBANISATION IN INDIA
Key Point:
Introduction
Challenges
Why Ahead
THE ESSAY BEGINS.
The recent floods in Mumbai and Chennai has brought into discussion a topic people have comfortably ignored for long, the unplanned urbanization in India,
2011 census has put urban population at 31 %, which is bound to increase with the rural areas lacking much employment opportunities. The sheer magnitude is putting pressure on depleting resources, and without proper planning, this will lead to deterioration of living quality in the cities.
Lack of infrastructure is the biggest problem, and when coupled with weak urban local bodies which lack the necessary expertise, it becomes a plan for disaster. The absence of clarity in the functional domain of these bodies, and the non-fixed tenure of Mayors make these bodies weaker. Many states have not yet transferred funds, functions and functionaries, mostly because of unwillingness on the part of the states. Even the city planning function has not been transferred in many states, even though it's required as per the 74th constitutional amendment.
Providing basic amenities at affordable prices should be the first priority of the government, and schemes like Smart City, AMRUT and HRIDAY have been launched to ensure this. Sustainable cities with focus on linking public transportation and residential complexes need expert planning, and for this innovation should be done at the local level, emphasizing the need for real power and funds in the hands of urban local bodies.
Indian cities can develop into truly global ones only when they are planned innovatively, governed efficiently and managed sustainably.
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