Urban Development Minister Shri Jaipal Reddy has said that drinking water, sewerage and drainage are on top priority under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission. Delivering a concluding address at a national seminar on Urban Governance in New Delhi today, he said that government shall continue to operate public taps for the benefit of the poor.
Stating that Urbanization is a byproduct of industrialization, Shri Reddy said state governments should be sensitized about this irreversible process. The Union Minister said urbanization is inevitable and indispensable. Poor are bound to migrate to urban areas because of high wages being offered by the cities.
On slums, Shri Jaipal Reddy said that Slum Dwellers should be provided honorable replacement. He said slum land could be used as a resource for building flats for them. Big builders are not coming forward to build flats for slum dwellers, Shri Reddy added.
Stating that new townships are welcome, Shri Reddy said that there is no escape from vertical growth as land is scarce in urban areas. He quoted Japan as a model for vertical growth.
On Metro Rail, Shri Reddy said that all cities can’t afford metro rail, as it is an expensive proposition. He suggested Bus Rapid Transit System, BRTS as a mode of public transport for other cities. Shri Reddy said that Ahmedabad, Pune, Indore and other cities are opting for BRTS.
PVR/SK
(Release ID :22399)