Rapid Urbanisation and Climate Action Theme: Observed on October 31, World Cities Day 2024 highlights “Youth Climate Changemakers: Catalysing Local Action for Urban Sustainability,” focusing on the role of youth in climate resilience.
Global Urbanisation Pressures: With 57.5% of the global population in cities, urban areas face challenges including climate change, poverty, and inequality. These issues are particularly severe in rapidly urbanising regions of the Global South.
India’s Unique Urbanisation Path: India’s urbanisation, unlike the West, is driven by economic distress rather than industrialisation, leading to “poverty-driven urbanisation.” Reverse migration during COVID-19 further underscored gaps in infrastructure.
Challenges in Indian Cities: Key issues include outdated planning, limited governance capacity, climate vulnerability, and severe pollution. Over 40% of India’s urban population resides in slums, facing overcrowded and substandard living conditions.
Rising Inequality and Social Segregation: Urban wealth disparity is stark, with luxury developments contrasting sharply against the millions lacking basic housing. Social and religious segregation also marks Indian urban spaces.
Lack of Local Governance Control: Despite the 74th Amendment, urban governance remains weak, with minimal control over planning. Most city functions are outsourced, and cities receive only 0.5% of GDP in intergovernmental funds.
Urgent National Intervention Needed: As India observes World Cities Day, the pressing challenges of urbanisation highlight the need for comprehensive, people-centered national policies to promote sustainable urban development