Build future-ready cities: LG
Srinagar, July 4: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Thursday called for building future-ready cities saying that the increasing urbanisation reflects growing aspirations.
Addressing the Srinagar conclave of a High-Level Committee on Urban Planning of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, LG Sinha in his keynote address called upon the town planners, urban designers, and experts to focus on building future-ready cities.
“Our cities are growth engines of the country and also play a key role in fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of the citizens. Increasing urbanisation reflects the growing aspiration. Urban planning should be able to build sustainable infrastructure and enable residents to prosper,” he said.
The LG extended his felicitations to the members of the High-Level Committee and all the experts.
He said that the two-day deliberations with all the states and urban planners and recommendations will help in formulating the final report of the committee on reform in urban planning in the country.
“Given the extreme weather events, impact of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns, it is imperative to focus on resilient urban planning for future-proof cities,” LG Sinha said.
He reiterated the J&K administration’s resolve on urban transformation and building sustainable, inclusive, resilient, and safe cities which serve the needs of people and can effectively tackle economic, social, and climate challenges.
Highlighting the urban reforms introduced under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the LG said the key initiatives like Urban Rejuvenation and Smart Cities campaign, urban planners were discovering a more holistic development of cities to enhance quality of life.
He made some suggestions focusing on addressing the challenges of urbanism and ensuring quality living for all citizens.
LG Sinha urged the high-level committee to create a balance between modern facilities and natural heritage and focus on quality living space in future urban planning.
He emphasised the need for sustainable urbanism and comprehensive, all-inclusive urban development, urban resilience, and future readiness.
The LG impressed upon stakeholders and the community to take dedicated measures to unlock urban potential and bridge the gap in rural and urban facilities on priority.
He called for giving fresh impetus to the economic activities and quality of life in satellite cities and rural areas, with increased physical and digital connectivity.
“The ecological potential of cities will become the basis of their economic potential in future. Public amenities and spaces should be accessible and inclusive with a focus on developing commercial hubs to create employment and business opportunities,” LG Sinha said.
He suggested the inclusion of citizens’ feedback and unpredictable weather patterns in urban planning and development policy, besides strengthening the multi-modal integrated transportation and response system of city management.
The LG underlined the need to put a dedicated focus on connectivity, technical infrastructure, green infrastructure, communication infrastructure, environmental protection, and public safety during the planning process.
Chairman, High-Level Committee on Urban Planning Keshav Verma lauded the LG-led J&K administration for transforming the urban landscape of J&K.
Urban planning experts also shared their views on the reforms needed in urban planning and development.
Chairman, J&K Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JKRERA), Satish Chandra; Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development Department, Mandeep Kaur; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Bidhuri; members of High-Level Committee and RERA, urban and town planning experts and senior officials were also present on the occasion. Private Hospital Boom
