Relevance of Urban Commissions in Contemporary India
- A new Urban Commission recently emerged in the State of Kerala, marking a positive development after almost 38 years.
- The first i.e. the National Commission on Urbanisation, formed by former PM Rajiv Gandhi had Charles Correa as its head but faced setbacks after Gandhi's assassination.
- Despite challenges, the 74th Constitutional Amendment led to a shift in policy, for more private initiative and investment in urban development
The Changing Urban Landscape
- With over 56% of the world's population residing in cities today, urbanisation has brought about significant global transformations.
- The process has influenced climate change, land use, building typologies and created challenges in housing, sanitation and pollution.
- Capital accumulation is intricately linked to city development, shaping the urban landscape.
Evolution of Urban Development in India
- Post-independence India witnessed two distinct periods in urban development.
- The Nehruvian era, lasting nearly three decades, focused on a holistic city approach with centralised planning and master plans.
- However, it failed miserably as it was drawn by the idea of the state as a basic instrument of capital accumulation, pushing people for migration with manufacturing as the driving force
- The 1990s marked the era of privatisation, with global cities becoming the model for development.
- Master plans were handed over to large parastatals and big consultancy firms; and real estate took precedence.
- Mission-oriented approaches like the Smart Cities Mission, replaced holistic city planning.
The Need for an Urban Commission
- Given the complexity of urban challenges, the Urban Commission established in 1985 should be reexamined.
- Piecemeal approaches, as seen in various missions, have proven ineffective.
- A comprehensive understanding of urbanisation patterns, migration, settlement, and the role of information technology is crucial.
- Governance issues, including the centralization of financial architecture, further highlight the need for a nuanced approach.
Kerala Urban Commission
- The formation of the Kerala Urban Commission becomes crucial in this context.
- Comprising members with diverse expertise, the commission aims to address the challenges of urbanisation in Kerala.
- An estimated 90% of the population of Kerala is urbanized.
- The 12-month mandate focuses on creating a roadmap for at least 25 years of urban development.
- It recognizes the interconnectedness of Kerala's urban processes with global and national dynamics.
Lessons for Other States
- While a national commission is desirable, the Kerala Urban Commission serves as a beacon for other highly urbanised states.
- It provides a learning opportunity for the effective establishment and functioning of urban commissions in states with a significant urban population.
Conclusion
- The Kerala Urban Commission emerges as a timely initiative, addressing the multifaceted challenges of urbanization in the state.
- It also offers valuable lessons for other states grappling with similar urban complexities.