Decongesting Delhi: Rapid Fire with M Venkaiah Naidu
Union Urban Development Minister speaks to Maneesh Pandey.
In Short
- The process of 'Urban Renaissance' has set in motion over the last two years.
- We talk and do politics only at the time of elections.
- India's development is propelled by that of Delhi
- Mumbai and lakhs of villages.
HOW IMPORTANT DELHI IS IN YOUR MINISTRY'S SCHEME OF THINGS?
It is very important. I would like Delhi to play a lead role in the process of 'Urban Renaissance' that our government led by PM Narendra Modi has set in motion over the last two years through various initiatives.
Obviously, Delhi has an important role in this regard. What Delhi can do today, others will follow tomorrow. Development of NDMC as a Smart City can be an example for others.
This lead role should permeate to all other areas of urban governance and development.
YOUR INITIATIVE IN SETTING UP A COMMITTEE TO DECONGEST DELHI BELIES THE 'HOT AND COLD' RELATIONSHIP-BETWEEN MODI AND KEJRIWAL GOVERNMENTS. IS URBAN AGENDA FOR DELHI BEYOND POLITICAL OVERTONES AND HOW DOES IT GEL WITH YOUR GOVERNMENT AND PARTY'S PRIORITIES?
For PM Modi, the only mantra is development and development beyond political considerations. The operational principle for this is 'Team India' spirit. We talk and do politics only at the time of elections. Thereafter it's just development.
India's development is propelled by that of Delhi, Mumbai and lakhs of villages. We don't believe in politicising development. I have announced Rs 3,250 crore for decongesting Delhi by undertaking various priority projects.
WHAT ARE MOST PRESSING CHALLENGES IN DELHI?
Improving the quality of life of lakhs of people living in slums, sanitation, decongestion, addressing basic and core infrastructure gaps, pollution, inclusive sustainable urban development for making Delhi one of the best cities of the world in terms of quality of life of its citizens.
WHAT IS THE BIGGEST BARRIER TO A SMOOTH RIDE IN DELHI- POLITICAL WILL, LACK OF IDEAS OR FINANCE?
If there is adequate political will, everything else will fall in place. Proper prioritization, planning and execution are the key challenges.How can things improve with 18 different agencies handling different aspect of urban transport in Delhi?
One needs to think and act differently for better results. I hope this report will make a right beginning towards enabling a smooth ride in Delhi.
Efficient mobility options for all sections of the people are key to taking advantage of urban agglomeration. It's time the mess in Delhi is fixed in quick time.
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