Unsafe and unreliable urban drinking water is pushing households toward bottled water, increasing dependence on single-use plastics and exposing people to microplastics. India generates about 9.3 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with significant leakage into the environment due to collection gaps. At the same time, cities produce nearly 48,000 MLD of sewage, but only ~56% is effectively treated, allowing pollution to re-enter water sources and worsen water quality. The recycling system relies heavily on informal waste pickers who recover ~40% of recyclables, yet modern waste reforms often reduce their incomes and exclude them from formal systems, while sanitation workers continue to face hazardous conditions. The issue highlights a vicious cycle linking water insecurity, plastic pollution and invisible labour, underscoring the need for integrated, inclusive and infrastructure-led urban sustainability.
Click to View MoreThe public health crisis in Indore exposed deep urban governance failures, as sewage-contaminated water from ageing pipelines caused deaths despite prior warnings by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India. The episode reveals neglect of core water infrastructure and highlights the need for audits, monitoring, accountability, and effective implementation of AMRUT 2.0.
Click to View MoreQ-commerce has transformed urban consumption by offering ultra-fast deliveries, but its speed-driven model creates significant social and governance challenges. Delivery workers face high accident risks, unstable incomes and algorithmic pressure, while cities experience rising traffic violations and congestion linked to gig operations. Weak labour regulations and incomplete social-security frameworks leave workers vulnerable, and platforms often evade accountability through opaque incentive systems. Although governments have introduced measures such as social-security codes, welfare boards and safety guidelines, implementation remains uneven. A balanced approach that strengthens worker protection, ensures platform transparency and improves urban regulation is essential to make the quick-delivery ecosystem safe, fair and sustainable.
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Rapid urbanisation requires a shift towards climate resilient cities. This includes improving governance, investing in climate-proof infrastructure, implementing nature-based solutions, mobilising private capital, updating planning laws, and integrating climate data for sustainable future urban spaces.
Click to View MoreThe stray dog problem in India is a public health and urban governance issue. It requires a balanced approach that balances animal welfare and human safety. Challenges include ineffective Animal Birth Control rules, lack of funding, and public ignorance. A holistic strategy involving law, public education, and municipal action is crucial.
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