Why Urban Governance matters - Now more than ever!

-Shweta Shah

In the past few decades, India's urban landscape has undergone a metamorphosis. The number of metro cities has ballooned, symbolizing economic growth and demographic shifts. The urban population has experienced a six-fold increase since 1951, growing from 62.4 million to 377.1 million in 2011, and it is estimated that 590 million will live in Indian cities by 2030, which is twice the entire population of the USA.⁽¹⁾ The total area under urbanization according to the 2011 census (which could be much higher now) is 31.14 % in India and 45.2 % in Maharashtra. However, this rapid urbanization presents multifaceted challenges, particularly for local administrations that struggle to keep pace. Urban Governance stands at the crossroads, seeking to harmonize growth with sustainability. Here's where Urban Governance – the system managing and developing cities – becomes paramount.

India's Urban Landscape – Growth and Challenges

The urban sprawl in India has been remarkable, with cities like Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Bengaluru, etc becoming megacities. This expansion isn't just limited to traditional metropolises; many smaller cities are rapidly transforming into bustling urban centres. Yet, this growth has outstripped the capacity of local municipalities to provide basic services, manage infrastructure, and ensure quality of life.  Pune, for instance, witnessed a population explosion, surging over 38% between 2001 and 2011. This rapid growth strains infrastructure and service delivery. Municipalities grapple with providing basic amenities like water, sanitation, and waste management, and face issues like traffic congestion, air pollution, and inadequate public transport, etc. There is a glaring gap between the demand and delivery of basic public services.

Gaps in the Legislative Framework

The crux of the problem lies in the structural inadequacies of Urban Governance. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act envisioned municipalities as self-governing entities with sufficient powers and resources to effectively manage urban areas. However, the reality is starkly different. There's a lack of genuine devolution of power and financial autonomy to these urban bodies, significantly hindering their operational efficacy. Central governments are often keen to assign service delivery responsibilities to urban local governments but there is simultaneous reluctance to transfer meaningful decision-making authority, particularly in the administrative realm. 

The Missing Piece: Local Body Elections and Their Impact

Let’s have a look at the situation in Maharashtra. As of today, there is not a single elected body in all of the state’s 27 municipal corporations.⁽²⁾ The elected bodies have completed their terms at different points in time over the past two years and are waiting for fresh elections to be conducted. Currently, these cities are being run by state-appointed ‘administrators’ who are mostly IAS or other officers appointed by the state government. The absence of regular and transparent municipal elections undermines the legitimacy and responsiveness of urban local bodies, creating a governance vacuum that stifles progress. A democratically elected councilor/corporator acts as a connection between citizen needs and the administration's priorities. State-appointed administrators, on the other hand, may lack the same level of accountability and long-term vision. The administrator combines in a single person the authority of the municipal commissioner, the powers of the statutory committees and those of the municipal corporation.⁽³⁾ This not only hampers governance but also weakens the democratic essence of urban administration.

Need for MPs and MLAs, the representatives of the people to step up  

The disconnect between higher echelons of power (MPs and MLAs) and the urban constituents further complicates the governance challenge. There's often a misalignment between state and national political priorities and the immediate needs of urban governance, leading to neglected cities and under-resourced municipalities. Inadequate financial resources limit the municipalities' ability to invest in infrastructure, public services, and environmental sustainability initiatives.  Additionally, national and state-level political considerations often fail to prioritize local needs, creating a misalignment with the challenges faced by rapidly growing cities. 

Envisioning Sustainable Urban Governance

The SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, is dedicated to developing various aspects of urbanization, including access to basic services, sustainable urban planning, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability. India is a signatory to these Sustainable Development Goals which need to be achieved by 2030. The path to sustainable urban governance requires a multifaceted approach. First, there needs to be a genuine devolution of power and financial resources to urban local bodies. This empowerment would enable municipalities to tailor development projects to local needs, manage resources efficiently, and enhance service delivery. Ensuring the regular conduct of municipal elections would further strengthen governance by making it more accountable and responsive to urban constituents. 

Integrating Urban Governance into the broader political framework is also vital. MPs and MLAs must be more engaged with urban issues, ensuring that state and national policies support, rather than hinder, urban development initiatives. Moreover, fostering citizen participation in urban planning and decision-making processes can significantly contribute to more inclusive and sustainable urban development.

Conclusion

India's rapid urbanization poses significant challenges but also offers an opportunity to redefine urban governance for the 21st century. By addressing the gaps in the legislative framework, empowering local municipalities, and fostering a participatory governance model, India can navigate towards sustainable urban development. Urban Governance, thus, emerges not just as a regulatory framework but as a collaborative endeavour that brings together policymakers, urban planners, and the community. The journey towards sustainable urban growth is complex, yet, with concerted efforts and robust governance, India's cities can thrive as sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant urban centres.

(Shweta is an Assistant Professor at MMM’s Shankarrao Chavan Law College;

and a research associate at Glass Half Full Media, Australia)

References -

1. https://niua.in/urban-statistical-profile?field_infograpgice_state_value%5B%5D=MH
2. https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/mumbai-news/why-does-maharashtra-not-have-a-single-elected-municipal-body-101704314173475.html
3. https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/administrators-in-municipal-corporations

Bengaluru's Water Crisis - A Crisis in Common!

-Shweta Shah

The bustling metropolis of Bengaluru, often hailed as the ‘Silicon Valley of India,’ is facing a recurring crisis that threatens the very foundation of the city's existence – a severe water shortage. Bengaluru, celebrated as a beacon of economic growth and innovation, faces a critical question: has this growth been beneficial or detrimental to its 9.6 million residents? This crisis is a stark reminder that rapid urbanization and economic development can come at a heavy cost. But Bengaluru isn't alone.  Many major Indian cities are grappling with similar water woes, highlighting critical gaps in urban water management. From Mumbai to Delhi, Chennai to Kolkata, the story is the same – burgeoning populations, strained infrastructure, and dwindling water resources.

The Current Situation in Bengaluru:

The Krishnaraja Sagar Dam, one of the city’s primary water sources, is at a five-year low, and the city's demand (2,100 MLD) far outstrips supply (1,850 MLD). This gap threatens a ‘Day Zero’ with no running tap water.  The crisis stems from a complex web of issues. Over-reliance on the strained Cauvery River, coupled with disputes with neighbouring states, has put a burden on this lifeline. Additionally, rampant extraction and pollution have depleted groundwater, leaving many borewells dry. Bengaluru's once abundant lakes, neglected due to urbanization, are no longer reliable water sources. Citizens are facing the brunt of this crisis. Apartments lack water, forcing residents to rely on expensive tankers or public facilities. The situation is dire, with some resorting to desperate measures to secure water. Renowned Scientist, Dr T V Ramchandra, IISc has stated that if the civic administration doesn’t address this water scarcity with effective and sustainable measures right away, Bengaluru is going to go the ‘Cape Town Way’.

Steps Taken by the Administration:

In Bengaluru, the urban governance bodies have implemented measures to address the water crisis, such as water rationing, conservation campaigns, and infrastructure investments. The BWSSB (Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board)  has banned non-essential uses of potable water and initiated projects to augment supply. Immediate digging of 58 borewells in various regions of the city has been ordered. However, these measures often fall short of addressing the root causes of the crisis and may provide only temporary relief.

What cities can learn -

Bengaluru's woes serve as a cautionary tale for other growing cities. Across India, cities are witnessing a surge in population as people migrate in search of better opportunities. This influx strains existing water resources. Unchecked urban sprawl paves over natural landscapes, hindering rainwater recharge and exacerbating flooding during monsoons.  Lakes and ponds, once natural reservoirs, are encroached upon or polluted, further diminishing water storage capacity. Proactive water management plans, sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting, treatment of sewage water, lake restoration, and responsible urban development are crucial lessons to learn.

Urban Governance - Falling Short

Urban governance bodies often struggle to keep pace with the growing demand for water.  Over-reliance on distant rivers or unsustainable groundwater extraction are short-sighted solutions.  Inefficient water distribution systems lead to leakages and wastage.  Furthermore, a lack of public awareness and pricing mechanisms that don't discourage overuse compound the problem. The civic administrations often prioritize economic benefits over the maintenance and conservation of precious natural resources, putting the futures of all its residents at risk.

Policy Solutions for a Sustainable Future -

Here are some key policy solutions that can help Indian cities navigate this water crisis:

●        Long-Term Vision: Cities need a long-term water management plan that factors in population growth, rapid economic development and climate change.

●        Rainwater Harvesting: Mandatory rainwater harvesting in residential and commercial buildings can significantly reduce dependence on external sources.

●        Wastewater Treatment and Reuse: Treated wastewater can be used for irrigation and non-potable purposes, reducing freshwater demand.

●        Lake and River Restoration: Desilting and rejuvenation of lakes and rivers can replenish natural water bodies. Also, urgent de-encroachment of these water bodies should be taken up.

●        Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens about water conservation and including them in the water management campaigns and projects is crucial.

●        Leakage Detection and Repair: Upgrading water infrastructure to minimize leaks and ensure efficient distribution is essential.

●        Tariff Reforms: Water pricing structures that incentivize conservation and penalize overuse can encourage responsible water use.

●        Explore Alternative Water Sources: Urban governance bodies must diversify water sources to alleviate pressure on degrading rivers. Treated wastewater offers a sustainable solution for non-drinking purposes like irrigation and industrial use. Simultaneously, curbing groundwater extraction and implementing recharge techniques can replenish aquifers, safeguarding this critical resource. Moreover, rejuvenating polluted lakes and ponds not only expands water storage but also enhances ecological health.

As Bengaluru and other major cities grapple with their water crises, there are valuable lessons to be learned. Urban governance bodies must recognize the interconnected nature of water issues and take proactive measures to address them. By prioritizing sustainability, equity, and resilience, cities can navigate their water challenges and build a more sustainable future for all residents. The journey ahead will be challenging, but with collective action, citizen participation and innovative solutions, cities can turn the tide on their water crises and emerge stronger than ever before. By taking action now, cities can avoid a similar fate and ensure a secure water future for all.

(Shweta is an Assistant Professor at MMM’s Shankarrao Chavan Law College;
and a research associate at Glass Half Full Media, Australia)

References -

https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/water-woes-a-searing-crisis-in-karnataka-and-its-it-capital-bengaluru/article67938701.ece

https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/bengaluru-water-crisis-decoded-tankers-shortage-in-city-borewells-groundwater-levels-2929584

https://youtu.be/YaYS154cvVk?si=DY0xcMwlh96tm_BQ

https://bwssb.karnataka.gov.in/storage/pdf-files/documents/Vision%20Document%202050%20%20new.pdf  

Women in Politics: The Indian reality

- Sakshi Sohoni

The empowerment of women continues to be a significant focus area for governments and allied institutions across the globe. Increasing women’s participation in the public sphere – particularly in key decision-making positions has subsequently emerged as one of the means of achieving this end. In particular, the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing[1] in 1995, set a target of ensuring 30% women in positions at decision-making levels by 1995. Almost three decades later, most countries of the world are lagging behind significantly[2] in meeting the targets and closing the gender gaps. In the Indian scenario, women’s participation in different spheres of public life has progressed at a slow rate. Globally, India ranks at 144^th place in a list of 193 countries based on the percentage of elected women representatives in their national parliaments. India’s bicameral Parliament has female members who make up 14% of the lower house[3] (Lok Sabha) and 11.6% of the upper house (Rajya Sabha)[4]. Women’s representation in other key decision-making roles like the judiciary[5] also mirrors this trend of gender disparity. Just over 10% of current High Court Justices are women, while 4 out of the 32 current Supreme Court Justices are women. In a nation where 49% of the population is female, women continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles.

Image courtesy: newsclick.in 

Two main themes cover the essence of this problem - do women have access to opportunities and do they have the capacity to take up the role. India’s focus has largely been on the former.  Legislative interventions over the years such as the policy of reserving a third of seats for women at the panchayat level and in municipalities have allowed women to make inroads as elected representatives, albeit in a non-uniform manner. Currently, 21 out of 28 states in India have reserved 50% of the seats for women in Panchayati Raj institutions. As per the Global Sustainable Development Database[6] compiled by the United Nations,  women occupy 44.37%[7] of total seats in deliberative bodies of local government. The Constitution 110^th Amendment Bill of 2009[8] which sought to reserve 50% seats for women in Panchayati Raj Institutions was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Similarly,  The Constitution 112^th Amendment Bill 2009[9]  sought to reserve 50% seats for women in urban local bodies was also introduced in the Lok Sabha. At a national level, the Women’s Reservation Bill[10] that sought to reserve 33% seats for women in central and state legislatures was introduced and passed in the Rajya Sabha in 2008. However, lack of political will has meant that these bills were not discussed in the other house and have not been reintroduced since.

Research[11] and trends[12] over the last two decades point towards substantial developmental gains that are realised when women come into decision making positions. From the manner of conduct to the issues that are focused on, women leaders have a distinct style of functioning when compared to their male counterparts. Women’s larger political identity in India is shaped by multiple factors. Women’s autonomy to make decisions (including ones like running for office or voting for a candidate) is likely to be limited, owing to the patriarchal nature of the Indian society. Moreover, women’s voice if at all considered[13], tends to get limited to domains that are deemed to be “women’s issues” like health, sanitation, food security and child care. While entry barriers have been somewhat addressed through affirmative action, women in politics have to face disproportionate standards and layers of subtle discrimination as they pave their way forward into the system. Data on the representation of women in key decision-making positions outside of politics or in the larger workforce[14] suggests that the lack of capacity to meaningfully access opportunities is a common theme. In order to achieve the end of proportional representation of women in the political sphere and decision-making at large, it is important to work on several contributing factors. First, it is imperative to focus on education, economic empowerment and social inclusion collectively, to empower women to exercise their political identities – as citizens and decision-makers. Second, it is important to create an environment that is conducive to achieving success. It is necessary to build the right knowledge, skills, mindsets in office-bearers at a system level. Third, it is important to acknowledge the double standards, biases and unreasonable expectations we have as a society from elected representatives – especially women, that often come in the way of judging their public persona fairly. Finally, it is important to create a role model effect by highlighting trends and the impact created by women in decision making positions. In this regard, the decentralisation of power at the level of local self-government coupled with affirmative action has provided women with maximum access to opportunities. However, it is important to remember that access does not necessarily translate into complete autonomy to take decisions independently or influence them.

India’s growth and development story hinges on inclusion – not just for the fulfilment of our economic aspirations but equally in pursuit of the constitutional commitment towards equality of status and opportunity. For the needs, aspirations, constraints, ideas of half of the population to be reflected in decision making, women’s presence in all domains of public life in general and politics and governance in particular needs to increase. Legislation can only act as an enabling factor to the process of women’s empowerment and strengthening of identities. For ground reality to change, it is necessary to back it up with changes in mindsets and actions.

Sakshi Sohoni

(Sakshi is an alumna of the Women in Government Fellowship and Teach For India Fellowship. Currently, she works as an associate with the Government Relations vertical in Teach for India)

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References:

[1]  United Nations (1995). Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, Critical Area G, “Women, Power and Decision-Making”

[2] https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2017/03/08/women-leaders-around-the-world/

[3] http://164.100.47.194/Loksabha/Members/AlphabeticalList.aspx

[4] https://rajyasabha.nic.in/rsnew/member_site/memberlist.aspx

[5] https://doj.gov.in/sites/default/files/SCI%20%26%20HCs%20as%20on%2002.03.2022.pdf

[6] https://www.sdg.org/datasets/undesa::indicator-5-5-1-proportion-of-elected-seats-held-by-women-in-deliberative-bodies-of-local-government-percent-3/about

[7] https://www.sdg.org/datasets/undesa::indicator-5-5-1-proportion-of-elected-seats-held-by-women-in-deliberative-bodies-of-local-government-percent-3/explore?location=5.208091%2C-15.094106%2C2.16

[8] https://prsindia.org/billtrack/the-constitution-110th-amendment-bill-2009#:~:text=The%20Bill%20seeks%20to%20amend,number%20of%20offices%20of%20Chairpersons.

[9] https://prsindia.org/billtrack/the-constitution-112th-amendment-bill-2009-amendment-of-article-243t

[10] https://prsindia.org/billtrack/womens-reservation-bill-the-constitution-108th-amendment-bill-2008-45

[11] https://economics.mit.edu/files/769

[12] https://accountabilityindia.in/sites/default/files/policy-brief/panchayatbrief1.pdf

[13] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/parliamentary-panel-that-will-examine-bill-to-raise-legal-age-of-marriage-has-only-one-woman-member/article38092059.ece

[14] https://www.strategy-business.com/blog/As-India-advances-womens-workforce-participation-plummets