Hyd lags behind in sanitation: Isher Judge

Addressing media persons, Ahluwalia said that the Outer Ring Road, Inner Ring Road, Metro Rail (under construction) and other transport facilities in Hyderabad were well-planned to keep up with the population. She said the Metro Rail project was being implemented not as a simple mass transit system, but as an urban redesign concept with emphasis on last-mile connectivity, room for cycling and other non-motorised transport, pedestrian facilities, green areas and public spaces with an eye for aesthetics. However, “The problems of sanitation, solid waste and water management in Hyderabad are the issues to be addressed,” she said. Referring to Vijayawada, she said that it was the best example for implementation of inclusive development growth plans. The urban housing for lower income groups at Jakkampudi and Gollapudi villages were planned well.

According to Ahluwalia, most Indian cities today are facing the challenge of delivering public services to a rapidly growing and more empowered urban population with rising incomes. Ahluwalia said that the urban infrastructure development deficit was around Rs 38 lakh crore and it was time to devolve funds to local bodies in a perfect manner.