Urban Growth and Challenges in India

Cities are vital to India’s future economic growth, contributing significantly to the GDP. Fifteen urban centers, including Mumbai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru, play a crucial role in driving India towards a $30+ trillion economy by 2047.

Current Urban Challenges

• Issues include air pollution, urban flooding, water scarcity, unreliable internet connectivity, garbage, and slums.
• These problems stem from unplanned expansion and weak urban governance.
• Indian cities struggle to compete globally with cities like Bangkok and Singapore.

Solutions and Initiatives

• Air Quality Improvement
  • Electrification of public transport and stricter construction dust norms.
• Solid Waste Management
  • India produces 1,50,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, with only a fraction processed.
  • Solutions include performance-based accountability and community involvement.
  • Indore’s model demonstrates effective waste processing and bio-CNG production.
• Water Management
  • Issues with water scarcity and quality, as predicted by NITI Aayog.
  • Indore’s GIS technology and rainwater harvesting serve as a model.
• Affordable Housing
  • India faces a shortfall of 10 million affordable homes, expected to reach 31 million by 2030.
  • Increasing floor space index (FSI) and floor area ratio (FAR) could promote vertical growth.
• Transportation and Traffic Management
  • Congestion and poor traffic management lead to pollution and time loss.
  • Investments in public transport and smart traffic management are essential.
• Digital Infrastructure
  • India's internet speed is significantly lower compared to global cities.
  • Expanding 4G and 5G networks is crucial for attracting global companies.

Urban Reform and Governance

• Decentralised planning and governance are necessary for effective urban reform.
• India has a significant shortage of urban planners compared to developed nations.
• Implementation of the 74th Constitutional Amendment and increased property tax collection are vital.

Conclusion

By addressing these issues, Indian cities can transform into world-class economic and cultural hubs. The government and private sector must collaborate to ensure cleaner, safer, and more productive urban environments, driving India’s urban renaissance over the next decade.