Author: Sridhar Kala Seetharam, Reddy Venugopala A
Place: New Delhi
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2010
Pages: 142
ISBN: 9780198065388
Subject: Urbanisation
Sub-Subject: Urban Development
Keyword: Urban Infrastructure, Local Government, Developing Countries, Urban Local Bodies, Infrastructure Financing
Classification: 330.91
Shelf: C1R4
Accession No: B1019
Contents: List of Tables and Figures, Acknowledgements, Preface, List of Abbreviations, Urbanization and Public Service Delivery: An Introduction, Ahmedabad: A Case of Lack of Coordination, Jaipur: A Success Story of Land Leasing and Sales, Bangalore: A Case in Inadequate Spending, Strengthening Urban Services: The Ways Foreword, References, Index
Abstract: This book explores the challenges faced by urban local governments in developing countries, where growing populations and rising demand for infrastructure strain their capacities. Adequate infrastructure is essential not only for boosting productivity but also for enhancing residents’ quality of life. The book focuses on two key questions: whether low public spending causes poor service delivery and how urban local bodies can secure greater financial resources to improve services. Through detailed case studies of four Indian cities—Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Bangalore—it analyzes critical urban services like water supply, sewerage, sanitation, solid waste management, municipal roads, and street lighting. The book benchmarks these services against international standards to highlight gaps and areas needing improvement. A significant aspect of the study is its investigation into innovative financing methods, particularly emphasizing the potential of land-based revenue generation as a means for cities to increase their financial capacity. By addressing these issues, the book offers practical recommendations aimed at enabling urban local bodies to enhance their service delivery, positioning cities as engines of economic growth while improving living conditions for their populations.