Haryana Govt. Plans Establish Centre for Urban Excellence for Regulated Development

In a move to address the challenges of rapid urbanization, the Haryana government, led by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, has announced plans to set up a Centre for Urban Excellence (CUE). The new initiative is aimed at ensuring regulated urban development across the state, particularly in fast-growing cities like Gurugram and Faridabad. The Department of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) has called for expressions of interest (EOI) to formulate the request for proposal (RFP) document, which will guide the establishment of the CUE. The selected agency will assist the department in selecting a knowledge institution to partner with in the establishment and operation of the center.

Objective of the Centre for Urban Excellence

The CUE is envisioned as an autonomous and interdisciplinary entity that will serve as a knowledge partner for the Haryana government. Its primary goal will be to foster innovation, improve urban livability, and facilitate discourse among various stakeholders involved in urban development. The department’s concept note specifies the need for a globally renowned institution with a proven track record to help set up the CUE. Ideally, this institution will be based in Panchkula, although other locations may also be considered.

Urban areas in Haryana have been growing rapidly, placing considerable pressure on infrastructure and resources. The urbanization rate of Haryana stands at 35%, which is higher than the national average of 31%. The state has seen a decadal urban population growth rate of 44.25%, compared to 32% nationwide. This rapid growth highlights the urgency for controlled and sustainable urban development.

Need for Regulated Urban Development

The CUE will focus on addressing the growing needs of Haryana’s urban areas, especially in cities like Gurugram and Faridabad. By 2041, these cities are projected to have populations of 4 million and 3 million, respectively. Such significant population growth will require comprehensive and innovative solutions to ensure that urban areas remain livable while accommodating the increasing population.

The state has long recognized the importance of managing urbanization through the development of effective policies and practices. The CUE will play a key role in shaping and institutionalizing policies that balance urban growth with sustainability. Its focus will be on research, strategic advisory, technical support, and capacity building to help state agencies adopt the highest standards in urban governance and development.

Key Goals of the Centre

The CUE will function as a policy and practice advocacy body, promoting the enhancement of livability in Haryana’s urban areas to international standards. The focus will be on environmental sustainability, technological innovation, resource conservation, and a people-first approach to urban planning. By driving these initiatives, the CUE will help improve the quality of life for residents while addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization.

The centre will also serve as a collaborative platform for stakeholders involved in urban development, including government agencies, private sector players, and academic institutions. Through extensive consultations and knowledge-sharing, the CUE aims to bring cutting-edge knowledge, expertise, and best practices to the state. It will provide support to the government in policy formulation and urban planning processes.

Supporting Urban Growth and Development

The establishment of the CUE is aligned with Haryana's broader vision of promoting sustainable urban development. The state government intends to strengthen the capacity of its urban planning and development agencies, enabling them to manage urbanization effectively. The CUE will support these agencies by introducing innovative governance practices, encouraging sustainable resource use, and integrating technology in urban planning processes.

The centre will also focus on training and capacity building, equipping local agencies with the tools and knowledge necessary to implement advanced urban development strategies. By collaborating with knowledge institutions, the CUE will facilitate the transfer of knowledge and best practices, ensuring that Haryana’s cities remain competitive and livable in the face of rapid urban growth.

The Role of Gurugram and Faridabad

Gurugram and Faridabad, two of Haryana’s largest and most rapidly growing cities, are central to the state’s urbanization plans. These cities face unique challenges due to their high population density, limited infrastructure, and increasing demand for housing and amenities. The CUE will play a critical role in guiding the development of these cities, ensuring that they can accommodate their growing populations without compromising on quality of life.

By focusing on these two cities, the Haryana government aims to create urban environments that not only support economic growth but also prioritize the well-being of residents. This involves improving infrastructure, promoting green spaces, enhancing public services, and ensuring that development is inclusive and sustainable.