What Role Do Mayors Play in the Development and Progress of Cities?
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Synopsis
Haryana's CM Nayab Singh Saini highlights the vital role of mayors in urban development during the All India Mayor's Executive Council meeting. He emphasizes the importance of mayors in implementing policies, addressing community needs, and steering cities towards becoming vibrant and self-reliant as India aims for developed status.
Key Takeaways
- Mayors are instrumental in urban governance and policy implementation.
- Haryana aims to transform urban areas into self-reliant and vibrant cities.
- Urbanization is seen as an opportunity for growth and development.
- Investment in urban infrastructure is critical for achieving sustainable growth.
- The projected urban population growth presents a vast potential for new opportunities.
Chandigarh, June 16 (NationPress) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini stated on Monday that mayors, regarded as the first citizens, have a pivotal role in fostering the development and progress of urban areas. He highlighted that mayors are responsible for executing government policies and initiatives, understanding the desires of the community, and addressing their concerns. “In the framework of local self-governance, mayors serve as the backbone,” remarked CM Saini during the 115th meeting of the All India Mayor's Executive Council convened in Panchkula.
The Chief Minister noted that in Haryana, mayors are elected directly by the populace and hold executive powers. “This system establishes a robust connection between citizens and their representatives, enhancing the accountability and effectiveness of decision-making,” he elaborated.
CM Saini emphasized that as India, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, strives towards becoming a “developed nation,” the significance of cities has escalated. “Cities are not merely residential areas; they are engines of economic progress, hubs of innovation, and melting pots of cultural interaction,” he asserted.
He further stated that Haryana perceives urbanization as an opportunity rather than a challenge. The state aims to create cities that harmonize ease of living with ease of doing business. CM Saini insisted that urban development should extend beyond infrastructure such as buildings and roads, focusing also on creating cities that are vibrant, sensitive, and self-sustaining.
He projected that by 2047, approximately 900 million people in India are expected to reside in urban areas. “This figure signifies immense opportunities for new infrastructure, lifestyles, and possibilities,” CM Saini stated. He underscored the necessity for this transition to align with planned urbanization, digital integration, and environmental sustainability. The Chief Minister revealed that in Haryana, the budget for Urban Local Bodies has surged from Rs 1,693 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 5,666 crore in 2025-26.
Four metropolitan development authorities have been inaugurated, with cities such as Faridabad and Karnal evolving into ‘Smart Cities’. Currently, 45 projects worth Rs 930 crore are in progress in Faridabad, while Karnal is witnessing 122 projects with an investment of Rs 927 crore. Additionally, 2,417 unauthorised colonies have been regularised, and development works amounting to Rs 1,000 crore are underway in newly sanctioned colonies, as stated by CM Saini.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the indispensable role of mayors in shaping urban landscapes. Their direct connection with citizens and executive powers enable them to address local needs effectively. Haryana's proactive approach to urbanization reflects a broader national vision, aligning with the goals of sustainable development and economic growth.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of mayors in urban development?
Mayors play a crucial role in implementing government policies, understanding community needs, and addressing urban issues, thereby enhancing the overall governance of cities.
How is Haryana planning for urbanization?
Haryana views urbanization as an opportunity, planning to create vibrant cities that balance ease of living with ease of doing business, along with focusing on sustainable development.
What future projections exist for urban populations in India?
By 2047, it is projected that approximately 900 million people will live in urban areas in India, highlighting the need for extensive infrastructure and lifestyle improvements.
What initiatives are being taken in Haryana's cities?
Haryana is developing cities like Faridabad and Karnal as 'Smart Cities' with significant investments in various urban projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and community living.
How have budgets for Urban Local Bodies changed in Haryana?
The budget for Urban Local Bodies in Haryana has increased significantly from Rs 1,693 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 5,666 crore in 2025-26, indicating a strong focus on urban development.
