'Tech must become accessible & affordable'

Panellists discussed how technology can be leveraged to help in urban planning and expansion at the fifth edition of the IE Thinc: CITIES series, presented by The Indian Express with Omidyar Network India. The session was moderated by Udit Misra, Associate Editor

Key recommendations include filling 27 per cent of sanctioned positions, creating an all-India urban planning service, and updating outdated urban planning acts to address environmental sustainability, climate change and water sensitivity.

Transformative change requires world-class planners, a national authority, and nurturing city-specific skills. Enhancing economic geographies and coastal city potential is vital. We must also reform governance by integrating businesses, industries, professionals and associations into local government.

On the role of tech in India's urbanisation

JAGAN SHAH: One thing we must recognise about technology, especially digital technology, is that it forms the backbone of many transformations in Indian cities. Much of this technology is dematerialised, almost invisible due to its digital nature. Currently, we are using various technologies, including data sciences for ICT applications, material sciences for waste recovery and advanced methods for water recycling.

Technologies such as remote sensing and GIS-based planning are integral to urban development. Cities, particularly under the Smart Cities Mission, are leveraging these technologies for data collection, efficient transportation and citizen engagement. A successful example is Srinagar, a smart city utilising these innovations.

However, challenges remain. First, cities must efficiently measure their "metabolism," monitoring operations like air quality and traffic flow through sensing technologies and data analysis. Second, platforms like Gatishakti, effective at national logistics management, should be adapted for a macro view of urban systems. With over 8,000 cities, understanding their economic interactions is crucial for growth.