The planning of cities and towns must be people-centric and responsive to citizens' needs, said housing and urban affairs minister Manohar Lal on Friday, as Brics nations adopted an Urban Ministerial Declaration committing to inclusive development, particularly for vulnerable and marginalised groups.
Declaration adopted at Brics Urbanisation Forum
The declaration was adopted at the conclusion of the two-day Brics Urbanisation Forum, themed 'Cities for People'. It emphasised the need to create liveable cities that ensure equitable access to housing, infrastructure and urban services.
Urbanisation a common challenge
Addressing a press conference, Lal said that urbanisation was a common challenge facing all Brics countries. While only about 35% of India's population currently lives in urban areas, UN projections indicate the country's urbanisation level could exceed 70% in the coming decades, making sustainable city planning a critical priority.
"Planning should be such that it's acceptable to people," Lal said, in response to a question.
Key highlights of the declaration
- Strengthen local governments and institutions
- Promote climate-resilient urban development
- Leverage digital technologies to improve governance, planning and citizen-centric services
Hosted by the housing and urban affairs ministry under India's Brics chairship, the forum brought together ministers, senior officials and urban experts from member nations.
Officials said the discussions reflected common challenges faced by Brics nations, including rapid urban growth, infrastructure gaps, fiscal constraints, climate risks and the need to make cities more liveable and equitable.
