World Habitat Day 2023 and India’s Urban Landscape | 12 Oct 2023

Source: PIB

Why in News?

In 2023, World Habitat Day (WHD), was celebrated on 2^nd October. This annual global observance has come a long way focusing on the evolution of urban development, sustainability, and the role of cities in economic growth.

What is World Habitat Day?

• About: The United Nations designated the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our habitats, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter.
  • The Day is also intended to remind the world that we all have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of our cities and towns.
• Origin: The origin of World Habitat Day can be traced back to Nairobi, Kenya, in 1986. The theme of the first celebration was 'Shelter is my Right,' addressing the acute problem of inadequate shelter in cities.
• Theme 2023: Resilient urban economies. Cities as drivers of growth and recovery.
  • 2023 has been a particularly challenging year for Urban Economies. The global economy growth itself is declining to about 2.5% and, apart from the initial Covid-19 crisis in 2020 and the global financial crisis in 2009, this is the weakest growth experienced since 2001.

What is the Role of Cities in Economic Recovery?

• Economic Engines: Cities serve as economic engines, contributing significantly to a nation's GDP.
  • Urban areas are the productive hubs of economies, generating more than 75 % of the world's GDP, attracting businesses, talent, and investments, thereby stimulating economic growth.
• Employment Opportunities: Cities offer diverse job opportunities, drawing in a skilled and diverse workforce.
  • In times of economic recovery, cities become critical in reducing unemployment rates, and improving the overall well-being of their residents.
• Innovation and Technology Hubs: Many cities are epicenters of innovation and technology.
  • They house research centers, universities, and tech companies that drive technological advancements, further fostering economic recovery through innovation-led growth.
• Infrastructure Development: Cities often receive substantial infrastructure investments during economic recovery phases.
  • These investments in transportation, utilities, and public services not only boost immediate job creation but also enhance long-term productivity and quality of life.
• Cultural and Creative Industries: Cultural and creative industries thrive in cities, contributing to the local economy through tourism, arts, entertainment, and design.
  • These sectors not only generate revenue but also make cities attractive and competitive on a global scale.

What is the Current Urban Landscape in India?

• Status:
  • India is one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and its growth is propelled by its cities.
    • Cities contribute 66% to the national GDP, a number expected to rise to 80% by 2050.
• Current Major Challenges:
  • Overpopulation and Rapid Urbanization:
    • India is the world's most populous country, with a significant portion of the population migrating from rural to urban areas.
      • This rapid urbanization exerts immense pressure on urban resources and infrastructure.
  • Inadequate Infrastructure:
    • Housing: The shortage of affordable housing results in the growth of slums and informal settlements, where living conditions are often substandard.
    • Water Supply and Sanitation: Many Indian cities struggle to provide clean and safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities to their residents.
      • This leads to health issues and the contamination of water bodies.
    • Transportation: Congested roads and lack of efficient public transportation systems contribute to traffic congestion, pollution, and increased travel time.
  • Environmental Degradation:
    • Air Pollution: Many Indian cities suffer from high levels of air pollution, leading to respiratory diseases and reducing the quality of life for residents.
    • Water Pollution: Industrial discharges, sewage, and improper waste disposal contaminate water bodies, affecting public health and the environment.
  • Inequality and Social Disparities:
    • Economic Disparities: Urban areas in India witness stark income inequality, with a growing gap between the rich and poor.
    • Access to Services: Many urban residents lack access to basic services like healthcare and education, leading to disparities in well-being and quality of life.
  • Inadequate Waste Management: Urban India alone generates nearly 0.15 million tonnes per day of Municipal Solid Waste.
    • According to GOI, almost 78% of the sewage generated in India remains untreated and is disposed of in rivers, lakes, or sea.
    • The volume of waste is projected to reach 165 million tonnes by 2031 and 436 million tonnes by 2050, if existing policies, programmes and management strategies are not adequately addressed.
  • Water Scarcity: Urbanization and industrialization are leading to the over-extraction of groundwater, causing water scarcity in many cities, especially during dry seasons.
  • Climate Change Vulnerability: Urban areas are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change, such as extreme temperatures, flooding, and intensified heat islands, which can exacerbate environmental and health issues.

Way Forward

• Integrated Urban Planning: There is a need to develop comprehensive urban plans that consider long-term sustainability, resilience to climate change, and the balanced use of resources.
  • Also, promote mixed land use, efficient land management, and zoning regulations that encourage smart growth.
• Innovative Financing for Urban Development: Cities can explore innovative financing methods like municipal bonds for raising resources.
  • Through the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) mission, the government has encouraged cities to raise capital investment.
  • To date, 12 cities have raised more than Rs. 4,384 crores through municipal bonds.
• Urban Employment Guarantee: Urban areas need a scheme similar to MGNREGA to provide basic living standards to urban poor.
  • The Indira Gandhi Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme has been rolled out in Rajasthan is a good step in this direction.
• Proper Waste Management: There is a need to emphasize strict segregation of waste at the source and promote formal recycling and composting practices.
  • Also, investing in waste-to-energy technologies and modern landfill management to reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal.
• Inclusive Development: There is a need to prioritize the needs of marginalized and vulnerable populations by providing them with access to basic services, quality healthcare, and education.
  • The data of migrants needs to be compiled and used in city development activities in the interest of migrant workers.
  • Also, promoting social housing and slum redevelopment projects to improve living conditions.