New Dimensions of Urban Management in India

Cities playa vital role in development and economic growth. The cities have emerged as engines of growth however, these are at the cross roads of transition. In India, the process of urbanization is at critical juncture. India is among the countries at low level of urbanization however, structure and patterns of urbanization are changing which demand for large investment in infrastructure and services for accelerating the growth of economy. The increasing urban population has put pressure on existing infrastructure, services and civic amenities. The gap between demand and supply of urban infrastructure and services is gradually increasing with a result in deterioration of space, environment and quality of life in urban areas. There has been paradigm shift in urban governance in India. Decentralization as envisaged in 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1994 has led the process of municipal reforms and ensuring urban good governance. The escalating demand for urban infrastructure and services has called for mobilization of resources through public private partnership initiatives and introducing municipal reforms in urban local governments. Present volume provides an insight into the various aspects and dimensions of urban development and management in India. It comprises of eleven detailed papers on decentralized governance, infrastructure development, environment, sanitation and hygiene promotion, water supply, services, poverty alleviation, GIS & its applications, disaster management, and financial management. It is hoped that the present volume will be of immense importance for those engaged in urban development and management, policy makers, academicians, city managers and students for understanding the dynamics of urban development and management as well as evolving strategies for effective management of urban affairs.