Cities in Uttar Pradesh are racing to finalise their master plans using GIS technology by the December 31 deadline to qualify for financial aid from central government schemes. Out of 59 AMRUT towns, 30 have received approval, leaving 29 scrambling. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs emphasises integrating "blue and green infrastructure" for sustainable urban living. The upcoming AMRUT phase will focus on smaller towns, ensuring broad access to urban services. As local officials face challenges in refining plans, collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for timely submissions, marking a pivotal step towards sustainable urban development in the state.
The clock is ticking for cities in Uttar Pradesh as they race to finalise their master plans using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. With a deadline set for December 31, local authorities are under pressure to complete and submit their plans to qualify for financial assistance from various central government schemes. As of now, out of the 59 AMRUT (Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation) towns in the state, 30 have successfully received approval for their master plans. This leaves 29 towns scrambling to meet the upcoming deadline.
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has emphasised the importance of these submissions as a requirement for funding support. Urban planners and local authorities are urged to complete the necessary documentation and integration of new components into their plans. This includes advanced provisions for what is termed "blue and green infrastructure," which promotes environmentally sustainable urban living. This approach aims to improve quality of life and foster resilience against climate change.
The second phase of the AMRUT initiative is also on the horizon, targeting 63 additional cities in Uttar Pradesh. Unlike the first phase, which focused on larger urban centres with populations exceeding 100,000, this upcoming phase will shift attention to smaller towns with populations between 50,000 and 100,000. This change highlights the government's commitment to developing urban services across a broader range of population sizes, ensuring that even smaller towns can benefit from essential infrastructure improvements.
Amid these developments, local officials have faced challenges in refining their master plans. A senior officer from the housing department noted that reminders have been sent out to the executive heads of the remaining towns, with a deadline for submissions now set for November 30. Additionally, warnings have been issued to private urban planners and consultants who have been struggling to finalise their projects. A planner from the Bareilly division explained that incorporating new suggestions into existing master plans, alongside the bureaucratic process of holding board meetings, can significantly slow progress.
In July 2023, the state government issued reminders for integrating advanced components into the GIS master plans for the first time. This initiative aims to ensure that urban planners take full advantage of GIS technology, which facilitates better data visualisation and planning for urban infrastructure. The focus on updating infrastructure to include green spaces, water management systems, and other sustainable practices is not only vital for urban aesthetics but also essential in building more resilient communities.
As the deadline approaches, it is crucial for all stakeholders-local authorities, urban planners, and community members-to work together to finalise these master plans. They must consider innovative solutions and best practices from across the nation to address urban challenges effectively.
With various financial opportunities at stake through the AMRUT scheme, it is clear that timely submission of these plans is not just a bureaucratic requirement but a pivotal step toward sustainable urban development in Uttar Pradesh. The next few weeks will be critical in determining how well these towns can adapt to new urban standards, ensuring they are prepared for the second phase of the AMRUT mission and the ongoing demands of urbanisation.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
