Experts discuss agendas for smart cities

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, March 18

Over 60 professionals and town planners discussed development agendas for smart cities, urbanisation challenges and infrastructural concerns at an event organised by the Centre of Science and Environment (CSE), New Delhi.

The event, “21st Century Smart Cities: The New Development Agenda and Reforms”, was held in collaboration with the Punjab regional chapter of the Institute of Town Planners India (ITPI) at its building here.

The event began with Rajender Sharma, former chief town planner, Punjab, welcoming urban planners, architects, government personnel, academicians and other members of society.

Pradeep Kapoor, Registrar, RERA, Rajasthan, and former chief town planner, Rajasthan, revealed how the state government was working on providing affordable housing under the Mukhya Mantri Jan Awas Yojana. Kapoor briefed on the grievance redressal, penalties, fee structure and exemption for promoters, agents and applicants.

Rajneesh Sareen, director, Sustainable Buildings and Habitat Programme (SBHP), drew the new urban agenda in line with the sustainable development goals, as mandated by several national and state policies like National Action Plan for Climate Change, National Energy Policy, Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

To influence planning and building practice in the state of Punjab, Sareen highlighted the need to embed energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in building code and effective enforcement.