Sambhav-2025

Approach Briefly introduce the municipal bodies Discuss the role of municipal bodies in urban planning and development in India. Suggest reforms to improve financial autonomy and administrative efficiency. Conclude suitably.

Introduction

Municipal bodies are the cornerstone of urban governance in India, responsible for delivering a range of essential services and managing urban growth. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1992 provides the framework for municipal governance, aiming to empower urban local bodies by devolving powers and responsibilities.

Body

Role of Municipal Bodies in Urban Planning and Development :

• Urban Governance and Service Delivery:
  • Municipal bodies serve as the first point of contact for citizens, providing day-to-day governance and essential services.
  • Municipalities are tasked with ensuring basic services like water supply, sanitation, waste management, street lighting, and maintenance of public spaces.
  • The Indore Municipal Corporation has been a leader in urban sanitation, earning the title of the cleanest city in India under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
• Urban Planning and Zoning:
  • Municipalities prepare master plans that regulate land use, ensuring planned development with designated zones for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.
  • They play a crucial role in Smart Cities Mission, integrating digital governance, green infrastructure, and affordable housing to create sustainable urban ecosystems.
• Economic Development and Livelihoods:
  • Municipal bodies facilitate local economic growth through the provision of markets, trade infrastructure, and business zones.
  • This includes fostering public-private partnerships (PPPs), promoting tourism, and developing local industries that contribute to the overall economic growth of the urban areas.
  • The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has been instrumental in driving infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Metro and Trans-Harbour Link, fostering economic growth.
• Social Infrastructure and Inclusivity:
  • Municipalities are crucial in providing social infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, parks, and recreational spaces.
  • Ensuring affordable housing, sanitation in slums, and women-friendly spaces are crucial aspects of their work.
  • The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation's Slum Networking Project improved sanitation and housing for thousands of slum dwellers.

Improving Financial Autonomy of Municipal Bodies:

• Enhancing Revenue Generation:
  • Tax Reforms: Municipalities should have greater autonomy in levying property tax, water tax, and service charges to improve their revenue base.
  • Municipal Bonds & PPPs: Cities like Pune and Hyderabad have successfully raised funds through municipal bonds to finance urban projects.
  • User Charges: Charges for waste collection, parking fees, and congestion pricing can help generate additional funds.
• Devolution of Funds by State Governments:
  • State Finance Commission (SFC): Needs to ensure timely and equitable fund distribution to urban local bodies (ULBs).
  • Increased Grants: Greater allocation from Finance Commission grants under Article 280 can provide stability.
  • Focus on Smaller Cities: Funds should prioritize Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities to address developmental disparities.
• Introduction of Urban Development Funds:
  • Dedicated Fund: A central/state-managed Urban Development Fund can provide financial assistance for city infrastructure projects.
  • Infrastructure Loans: Soft loans for metro rail, flyovers, water supply, and waste management can boost city planning.
  • Example: The AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) scheme provides funds for water supply and sewerage projects in smaller cities.

Improving Administrative Efficiency:

• Decentralization and Empowering Local Leaders:
  • More Autonomy: Reducing state-level bureaucratic interference can empower municipal bodies for faster decision-making.
  • Elected Mayors with Greater Power: Strengthening the authority of elected mayors can improve governance efficiency.
    • Example: The Kolkata Municipal Corporation follows a mayor-in-council system, enabling better urban planning.
  • Coordination between Urban Development Authorities & Municipalities: Coordination with housing boards, town planning bodies, and metro authorities can lead to integrated urban development.
• Capacity Building and Professionalization:
  • Training & Skill Development: Municipal staff need training in urban planning, financial management, and technology adoption.
  • Specialized Cadres: Creating a dedicated Urban Services Cadre can bring expertise in city governance.
    • Example: The Urban Learning Internship Program (TULIP) aims to train young professionals in urban governance.
• Leveraging Technology and E-Governance:
  • Smart City Initiatives: Digital governance tools such as GIS mapping, online tax collection, and automated grievance redressal enhance efficiency.
  • Citizen Engagement Platforms: Mobile apps and portals for property tax, water bill payments, and complaint registrations improve service delivery.
  • AI & Data Analytics: Can be used for waste management, traffic control, and disaster preparedness.
    • Example: The Bhubaneswar Smart City App offers real-time monitoring of municipal services and citizen grievances.
  • Single-Window System: A unified urban governance model can reduce administrative delays and overlapping responsibilities.
    • Example: The Gujarat Urban Development Mission integrates planning efforts across multiple urban agencies for seamless execution of projects.

Conclusion

By empowering municipalities with more resources, better administrative structures, and the tools for effective urban planning, India can transform its urban centers into efficient, sustainable, and inclusive spaces. These reforms are crucial for addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and improving the quality of life for urban residents.