Discuss the problems associated with unabated urbanization and suggest the ways and means to arrest this.
In short
Unabated urbanisation overloads infrastructure, spreads slums, worsens waste, pollution and inequality, and exposes weak, underfunded urban local bodies. In Andhra Pradesh, 123 ULBs generated about 6,890 tons of waste daily in 2022 with only 4 operational sanitary landfills, so empowering ULBs, planned growth and PMAY housing are key remedies.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 266 words
Weak Urban Local Governance
Despite the 74th Amendment (1992), many ULBs lack autonomy and capacity, leading to poor urban planning and service delivery. Administrative mismanagement and vested interests further weaken governance.
Funding and Policy Gaps
State restrictions limit ULBs’ financial resources; absence of a second National Commission on Urbanisation reflects policy neglect. This results in inadequate infrastructure investment and fragmented urban strategies.
Waste Management Deficiencies
Andhra Pradesh’s 123 ULBs generated 6,890 tons of solid waste daily in 2022, with only 4 having sanitary landfills and 82 lacking wet waste processing plants, highlighting critical gaps. Poor waste handling exacerbates pollution and health risks.
Empower ULBs
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission’s report on Local Governance (2007) advocates holistic empowerment and capacity-building for urban local bodies, including greater financial autonomy and administrative powers.
Planned Urban Development
Promote strategic densification and regional planning to reduce pressure on megacities and curb unplanned sprawl, fostering multiple viable urban centers.
Improve Waste Management
Invest in sanitary landfills and enforce solid waste rules, addressing gaps seen in Andhra Pradesh’s ULB audit. Encourage adoption of sustainable waste processing technologies.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2011 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.