Urbanization
can be simply defined as the rise of cities vis-a-vis the rural landscape. As a
country moves ahead on the road to progress, cities tend to take center stage.
In that manner, the rise of cities has often been construed as an indicator of
development and progress. The case has been no different when it comes to Property in Bihar.
While the pace of urbanization was a bit slack in the early years
post-independence, it has really picked pace in the past few decades,
especially in the post-1991 phase. Coupled with economic growth and expanding
markets, the urban population now stands at around 30% of the overall pie in
India. Bihar lacks far behind the national average and the urbanization rate in
Bihar is just 11.3% as of 2011.
Property in Bihar |
The
picture of an urban Bihar is far from rosy. From economic growth to demographic
dividend in the form of a young population, Bihar has many things going for it.
If Bihar desires to shed its “laggard state” tag planned urbanization needs to
be given due attention. Upgrading existing cities and creating new ones are
prerequisites for economic progress and they must take place in an organized
manner.
Why
Bihar needs more planned cities?
Urbanization
in Bihar has been a victim of systemic inefficiencies and policy vacuum. While
Bihar’s population is no doubt increasing, quality of life of citizens in urban
areas is declining. Moreover, unchecked migration from rural areas is only
putting further strain on the infrastructure in cities. The result is water and
power shortages, lack of proper sewage collection and treatment, overburdened
transport systems and unplanned constructions in cities like Property in Patna
in Bihar.
Property in Patna |
It
is imperative then to not only create new ‘smart’ cities, but also upgrade the
existing ones. Developing newer cities will bridge the rural-urban divide. This
will in turn reduce social inequity, one of the biggest
psychological benefits of planned urbanization that will incur in our state
Bihar.
We
in Bihar need to ensure that the process of urbanization occurs in a smooth and
phased manner. A carefully planned city will attract investments, create jobs,
have strong infrastructure, and most importantly, up the standard of living of
its citizens. Going ahead, the contribution of cities to Bihar’s GDP will only
increase. To adequately leverage this, Bihar needs livable and productive
cities.
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