Challenges Facing Indian Cities
Indian cities, including the capital Delhi, face severe pollution issues, along with challenges from climate change, poor infrastructure, and weak public services. With projections of over 600 million people living in urban areas by 2036, cities are not equipped to handle this growth, leading to overcrowded roads, worsening pollution, and failing essential services like water and sanitation.
Comparison with Global Cities
- Bangkok: Efficient metro system, vibrant street life, tourist-friendly policies.
- London: Seamless public transport, green spaces, cultural hubs.
- Dubai: World-class urban planning, investment incentives.
- Singapore: Clean governance, smart city initiatives.
Indian cities need bold urban reforms and world-class infrastructure to compete globally.
Environmental and Health Crises
- Mumbai and Bengaluru experienced flooding and waterlogging.
- New Delhi faced a severe heatwave, with temperatures near 50°C.
- Air pollution costs India $95 billion annually in lost productivity and healthcare expenses.
- Major rivers like the Yamuna and Ganga are heavily polluted.
- Waste mismanagement exacerbates pollution, with less than one-fifth of waste treated.
Governance and Urbanisation Issues
India's census towns, which doubled from 1,362 in 2001 to 3,894 in 2011, face governance mismatches. They are governed as rural areas, lacking resources and urban planning, and do not receive appropriate funding from urban development schemes.
Lessons from Singapore
Singapore's urban development strategy focused on efficient land use, robust infrastructure, and sustainable growth. These insights can guide India's urbanisation process.
Urban Challenge Fund
The Indian government established a Rs 1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to support initiatives in urban growth, redevelopment, and water and sanitation. It aims to transform Indian cities into world-class destinations by encouraging long-term planning and sustainability.
Conclusion
Indian cities face significant challenges but have the potential to transform into smart, green, and liveable spaces. The next decade is crucial for their development, requiring immediate action to address pollution, congestion, and insecurity.
