Kerala’s Local Bodies Grapple with Urbanisation, Necessitating Policy Revisions

Up to 93 percent of villages in the state of Kerala have undergone urbanisation, heralding a shift in the paradigms governing local self-government institutions and regional governance policies. Acknowledging the profound impact of this urban transformation, the state government is actively engaging national and international expert committees to formulate a robust urban policy, crucial for addressing the myriad challenges posed by the rapid urbanisation wave.

Out of the 1,200 local self-government institutions in Kerala, a staggering 941 constitute gram panchayats, highlighting the need for a strategic policy overhaul. The shift towards urbanisation necessitates a comprehensive reevaluation of policies, especially in critical areas such as construction, waste management, and the provision of essential services. The unique geographical features of Kerala, as flagged by the association of architects, present distinctive challenges in constructing community living buildings.

This move towards policy revisions aligns with the Union Government’s directive in 2018, urging each state to establish precise urban policies. Kerala’s latest budget incorporates plans for urban policies, underlining the government’s proactive stance in adapting to the evolving urban landscape. As the state grapples with the complexities of urbanisation, these forthcoming policy changes are poised to shape a more sustainable and adaptive future.