The world is witnessing an important urban transformation, with an urban population of approximately 4.7 billion, representing 57.5% of the global populace. This shift is accompanied by pressing challenges, particularly in the context of climate change and urban sustainability. The theme for this year’s World Cities Day, ‘Youth Climate Changemakers – Catalysing Local Action for Urban Sustainability’, puts stress on the urgency of addressing these issues.
About Urbanisation Trends
Urbanisation is a complex phenomenon that varies across different regions. In developed nations, urbanisation typically followed industrialisation, creating job opportunities that attracted rural populations. Conversely, in many developing countries, including India, urbanisation is often characterised by economic distress, leading to what is termed “poverty-driven urbanisation.” This form of migration results in both rural-to-urban and urban-to-urban movements, exacerbating existing urban challenges.
Rapid Urbanisation in the Global South
Cities in the Global South face unique difficulties, intensified by rapid urbanisation. Many urban areas struggle with inadequate infrastructure, leading to housing shortages, poor sanitation, and limited access to clean water. The World Bank estimates that around 40% of India’s population resides in urban regions, yet a lack of precise data hampers effective urban planning.
Impact of Climate Change
Climate change poses a severe threat to urban areas, resulting in increased pollution, urban flooding, and the urban heat island effect. Indian cities are among the most affected, with eight of the ten most polluted cities located in the National Capital Region (NCR). These environmental challenges necessitate urgent action to ensure urban sustainability and resilience.
Socioeconomic Inequalities
Urbanisation has also led to growing socioeconomic inequalities. Exclusive developments cater to the affluent, while millions of urban residents live in slums without adequate housing. For instance, luxury projects like DLF’s The Dahlias in Gurugram stand in stark contrast to the two crore urban Indians lacking shelter. Furthermore, the informal sector dominates urban employment, with about 90% of jobs offering poor conditions and no job security.
Governance and Urban Planning
Despite the 74th Constitutional Amendment aimed at decentralising urban governance, many Indian cities remain under the control of undemocratic bodies. Elected representatives often lack real authority over urban planning, which is frequently outsourced to parastatals and private entities. The limited transfer of powers to urban governments hampers effective governance, as cities receive only 0.5% of GDP in intergovernmental transfers.
Need for Comprehensive Interventions
As urban challenges continue to mount, there is a critical need for comprehensive national interventions. Effective urban planning must prioritise the needs of citizens over mere capital growth, ensuring that local communities have a voice in the decision-making process. Addressing these challenges is essential for encouraging sustainable urban environments that can withstand the pressures of climate change and socioeconomic disparities.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the concept of poverty-driven urbanisation in India.
- Analyse the impact of climate change on urban areas in India.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the 74th Constitutional Amendment in addressing urban governance issues.
- What are the key challenges faced by cities in the Global South?
- Examine the relationship between urbanisation and socioeconomic inequality in Indian cities.
