Urbanization in India: Challenges and solutions

Abstract

Urbanization in India is parallel to trajectory of economic growth. India urban development has mimicked its growth asymmetrical pattern. Today we find concentration of metropolitan as we go downwards in India. Cities are powerhouse of economic activities they need to accommodate economic needs and aspiration of masses. Cities act as forward linkage to rural development. To develop agglomeration economy, we need to streamline process of urbanization. India’s urbanization is marred with issues like unplanned urban sprawl, weak financial capacity of urban local bodies, clustered housing without sufficient space, low preference for public transport contributing to pollution almost absence of local institutions of participatory democracy, bureaucratic planning etc. ‘Urban Transition’ in India will continue to grow on the back of strong economy. Our cities should be well equipped to bear transition consequences sustainably.