Urbanisation refers to the increasing population in urban areas. It is a global trend, observed in India. The country faces challenges in service delivery due to rapid urban growth. Urbanisation is essential for economic development. It drives GDP growth and improves living standards.
Historical Context of Urban Service Delivery
The Zakaria Committee, established in 1963, brought into light urban service norms. It focused on five key amenities:
- Water supply
- Sewerage
- Stormwater drainage
- Urban roads
- Street lighting
Despite efforts, service delivery remains inadequate. Reports indicate a lack of sufficient amenities in urban areas, leading to dissatisfaction.
Current Challenges in Urbanisation
Urban areas face several challenges:
- Rapid population growth
- Insufficient infrastructure
- Lack of basic amenities
Investment in urban development has been low. This has resulted in a decline in living conditions in many cities.
Key Urban Development Programs
The Government of India has initiated several programs to address urban challenges. These include:
Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM)
– Launched in 2005. – Aimed at improving urban infrastructure. – Focuses on transport, solid waste management, and stormwater drains. – Closed in 2014.
National Urban Transport Policy (2006)
– Promotes sustainable urban transport. – Encourages public and non-motorised transport options.
National Urban Housing and Habitat Policy (2007)
– Aims to provide affordable housing. – Focuses on improving living conditions for low-income groups.
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM)
– Launched in 2013. – Aims to reduce urban poverty. – Focuses on skill development and self-employment opportunities.
Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY)
– Launched in 2014. – Aims to conserve cultural heritage. – Focuses on 12 identified cities.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
– Launched in 2014. – Focuses on sanitation and cleanliness. – Aims to construct toilets and manage solid waste.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
– Launched in 2015. – Aims to provide affordable housing. – Targets low-income groups and women.
Smart Cities Mission
– Launched in 2015. – Focuses on developing 100 smart cities. – Aims for sustainable urban development.
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
– Launched in 2015. – Focuses on improving basic services. – Covers 500 cities with a five-year plan.
Industrial Corridors Development
The government is developing five major industrial corridors:
- Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor
- Chennai-Bangalore Industrial Corridor
- Mumbai-Bangalore Economic Corridor
- Amritsar-Delhi-Kolkata Industrial Corridor
- Vizag-Chennai Industrial Corridor
These corridors aim to boost economic growth and improve infrastructure.
New City Developments
Several new cities have emerged in recent years:
- Dholera SIR (Gujarat)
- Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT)
- Palava (Maharashtra)
- Lavasa (Maharashtra)
- Gurgaon (Haryana)
These developments focus on modern urban living.
Public and Private Urban Development Projects
Urban development includes both public and private initiatives. Examples of public-driven projects:
- Dholera (SIR)
- Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT)
Private-driven projects include:
- Lavasa
- Palava
These projects aim to create sustainable urban environments.
Sanitation and Cleanliness Initiatives
Sanitation remains a critical issue. The Swachh Bharat Mission aims for an open defecation-free India. Key features include:
- Provision of public and community toilets
- Incentives for household toilet construction
- Eradication of manual scavenging
Success in sanitation initiatives improves public health.
Heritage City Development
HRIDAY focuses on improving amenities in heritage cities. Objectives include:
- Better infrastructure and services
- Preservation of cultural heritage
This initiative enhances tourism and local economies.
Livelihood Support for Urban Poor
DAY-NULM addresses the livelihood needs of the urban poor. It focuses on:
- Skill development
- Access to credit
- Shelter provision
These measures aim to uplift vulnerable urban populations.
Future Directions in Urban Development
Urban development in India requires a multi-faceted approach. Key areas include:
- Infrastructure investment
- Enhanced service delivery
- Sustainable urban planning
Addressing these areas can lead to improved urban living conditions.
