Connectivity in Urban Transportation: The way forward

Urbanization has been one of the prevailing contemporary progressions as a growing share of the global population lives in cities. Transportation in urban areas is profoundly intricate because of multitude of the modes involved, of starting points and destinations, and the variety in traffic. Traditionally, the focus of urban transportation has been on passengers as cities were viewed as locations of utmost human interactions with multifaceted traffic patterns connected to commuting, business exchanges and recreational/social activities. Be that as it may, cities are also locations of production, consumption and conveyance, activities linked to movements of freight. Transport sector is the second largest consumer of energy in India. The growth of transport not just puts pressure on the limited non-renewable energy assets but also extensively increments ecological pollution.

According to a report released by Planning Commission[1], the population in urban areas in 2001 was 28 per cent, it is projected that by 2031 about 40 per cent population i.e. about 600 million people would be living in urban areas. Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD), Government of India issued the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) in 2006, to bring about comprehensive improvements in urban transport services and infrastructure. The policy focus is on movement of people rather than the movement vehicles between destinations. The policy aims at increasing the use of green energy sources, energy efficiency and environmental protection. For urban transportation a central policy is necessary. Although each state has the responsibility for urban transportation, a central policy can provide the necessary framework for systematic progress through coordination. Through the NUTP, several acts, rules and programs (like Motor Vehicle Act, Metro Construction Act, Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, Viability Gap Funding, Urban Infrastructure Development Scheme for Small and Medium Towns) have important implications in dealing with urban transportation issues. The NUTP is employing a comprehensive approach, namely, Urban Transport Planning, Infrastructure Design, Public Transport, Non-Motorized Transport, Traffic Management, Financing, Governance and Capacity Building, for making urban transportation sustainable and user friendly. In the eight years of existence of NUTP several new initiatives have been taken by MoUD to promote good mobility in cities.

The NUTP committee while working on developing a sustainable framework for urban transportation have concurred on their research findings that investment can be reduced by nearly 30 per cent by proactively promoting sustainable practices. As advocated by the Asian Development Bank in its action plan draft[2], the NUTP aims at shifting towards ‘Avoid, Shift & Improve’ strategy in transport planning. This ‘Avoid’ strategy aims at decreasing the demand for travel by reducing the number and length of trips. The ‘Shift’ strategy aims at transferring the traffic from personal vehicles to other Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) and Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) modes to reduce energy demand and hence pollution in cities. The ‘Improve’ strategy focuses on using clean fuels and clean vehicle technology. The NUTP in its urban transport planning has developed some key concepts such as Integrated Land Use and Transport Planning, Comprehensive Mobility Planning (CMP), Transit Oriented Development, Transportation Demand Management (TDM), Participatory Approach, to name a few, which aims at reducing the traffic load by augmenting public transportation and encouraging the public to make urban transportation more sustainable.

Despite employing proven concepts by the NUTP, urban transportation still remains an anomaly. The pollution level is on the rise because of adulterated traffic. Only a handful of UTs and states have fully functional CNG stations. Poor traffic management is another major hurdle in urban transportation. Lane segregation, a crucial method for managing urban transport has not been enforced uniformly across the country. Public transportation system is also marred by many shortcomings such as shortages of buses, spares and staff, overused, old & tattered vehicles, low wages which results in poor morale. The problems lie in the connectivity aspect of urban transit. Currently, there is no integration in public transportation. For someone to travel from point A to point B, multiple modes of transportation is used which results in more expenditure and wastage of time. People who can afford taxis prefer to hire them to get point-to-point connectivity and online cab aggregators, with the use of technology offer better services. The affordability of commuters is represented in the types of transit available in urban centres. From Mass Public Transit (MPT) such as buses to Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) such as metro system to single transit such as auto or taxis to private ownership of cars or two wheelers, there is a stark difference in the amount of commuters and their affordability. Lack of availability of more buses and other forms of MPT reflects the loop in scalability plans in an urban centre. Hence, affordability and scalability are crucial issues affecting urban transportation connectivity.      

These are only handful of problems related to urban transportation in India. Some of the suggestions that can assist in reviving urban transportation can be done by shifting focus from planning and designing for mobility to enhancing accessibility which will strengthen transport/land‐use link. The aim should be to facilitate ‘complete streets’ using Transport Demand Management which should include congestion pricing, parking controls and enforcement. Innovative use of technology in urban transit can be used through fare integration. The concept of fare integration can be used across multiple modes of transportation which could well be cashless transactions.  The role of private sector should be expanded and more private-public partnership enterprises should be welcomed on board for strengthening urban transportation. Ultimately, the ideology of ‘urban transport as a civil right’ should be acknowledged as a basic need enabling user‐side subsidies.  To conclude, connectivity, affordability and scalability in urban transportation system is crucial for development of urban centres. With the NUTP already been implemented since 2006, the onus should be on further strengthening the NUTP and providing more urgency in making it a sustainable system.  

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[1] Recommendations of Working Group on Urban Transport for 12th Five Year Plan

[2] Action Plan to Make Transport in Developing Countries more Climate Friendly

The curious case of stray dogs

Everyday thousands of cases are registered in hospitals regarding people being bitten by stray dogs. Often seen near garbage dumpsters, the stray dogs are mostly perceived as a menace and derogatory to the urban surroundings. Yes, it is true that people are bitten by stray dogs and at the most they have to take rabies shots. But the atrocities that the stray dogs face are rarely reported. At present, the scenario has improved partially for the strays but the gore acts of violence against the stray dogs are still at large. Dogs have been perceived as ‘man’s best friend’ since time immemorial then why are they the victim of sadistic pleasure of the humans. Are we humans so lost at beautifying our surroundings that we forget that stray dogs are also dogs and most importantly living beings?

Most stray dogs found in Asia and Africa belong to the ancient canine race known as the Pariah Dogs and have been the residing in both the continents since people started settling in. It is estimated that the breed has survived in India for around 14000 years and have evolved into a scavenging species living on the wastes of the humans. They are close relatives of the Spitz and Australian Dingo. The Pariah breed is not very popular among breeders and hence, people don’t even consider it for adoption since they are just the ‘desis’. Pariah dogs are known be a gentle yet a ‘rough & tough’ breed and are capable watch dogs as well. Though they might not be as elegant as the German Shephard but their beauty only lies in the eyes of the beholder. Israel is probably the only country where the Pariah is a recognized breed and are specially bred.   

In urban settlements, strays are mostly mongrels i.e. mix breeds of the Pariah and other pure breed dogs. Besides being scavengers, they are also kept as pets by rural residents and urban poor communities. In urban India, the stray population has been increasing due to the exponential amount of garbage found in urban settings which is also raising the issue of possibilities of people contracting rabies. There is a general sense of stigma in our society regarding these gentle creatures. Festivals turn into nightmares for these poor dogs. Drenching strays with colored water during Holi really affects their coat as these colors are made with chemicals. Similarly, tying firecrackers is another sadistic act which often ends with seriously injuring and traumatizing the dog or even death. Similarly, unnecessarily beating dogs, pouring acid, maiming their body parts are some common ways of humans to show power or just for fun. But the same people will probably kill someone who commit the same activities on their beloved ones. The question that arises is how the dog lovers can protect the strays?

Under the Indian laws, animal cruelty is an offence under Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, and Section 429 of the Indian Penal Code which is punishable with imprisonment and fine. Likewise, criminal intimidation, and criminally intimidating animal welfare volunteers is a serious offence under the Indian Penal Code (specifically, Section 503 of Indian Penal Code read with Section 506 of the Indian Penal Code 1860).

As per Indian law, street dogs cannot be beaten or driven away. The only humane, legal and scientific way of dealing with street dogs is to get them vaccinated and sterilized under Animal Birth Control Programme (ABC). Under this program, stray dogs can be picked up, neutered, vaccinated against rabies and released in the respective areas from where they had been captured, which is in accordance with the Animal Birth Control Rules 2001 framed, under Section 38 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 and as per the orders of Honorable Supreme Court of India. Government of India notified the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 vide the Gazette of India: Extra Ordinary Part II, Sec. 3, sub section II dated 24th December 2001 to implement sterilization and vaccination of street/community dogs to control the dog population.

There is a specific bar against dislocating dogs, since the same tends to interfere with and jeopardize the area-wise animal birth control. For the area-wise sterilization program mandated by law, dogs have to be returned back to their original habitat after sterilization and immunization. These dogs then tend to fight off other, newer, possibly unsterilized and unvaccinated dogs from entering their territories, since dogs are highly territorial in nature. Dislocation of street dogs has time and again proven to be counter-productive and only favors the entry of other non-sterilized street dogs into the area, which will not only be unknown to you but also to those who tend to the area’s street dogs, thus raising more cases of man-animal conflict.

To conclude, dogs are a gift of nature to mankind and that should be respected. We don’t have to invest any money on strays nor do they have any materialistic desires from us. The dogs are only hungry for some love and compassion. The winds of change can already be seen through organizations like Frendicoes, Jaagruti, The Welfare of Street Dogs (WSD) etc. which are working day and night towards improving the conditions of the strays. So, next time when you are out, just look at the strays and observe their hunger for your love and remember, a little compassion never hurt anyone.

Sources:

http://www.wsdindia.org/

http://pets.indiatimes.com/articleshow.cms?chname=pets&artID=1062179212

http://jaagruti.org/

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/08/07/world/asia/india-stray-dogs-are-a-menace.html?_r=0

http://www.strays.in/

http://forcechange.com/34340/stop-brutal-killings-of-stray-dogs-in-india/

Tiger tourism and India

Wildlife tourism refers to the type of tourism where the motive of the tourist is to experience wildlife in its natural surroundings and admire the beauty of exotic, wild species. Wild life tourism is a debatable concept in India. It has two perceptions where one perception is about setting wildlife apart from tourism to protect the endangered species whereas the second perception is to promote wildlife tourism for the conservation of the species. With 99 national parks and more than 400 wildlife sanctuaries, India has rich population of flora and fauna. Though there are many species of flora and fauna, Tiger has emerged as the most important wildlife tourism product. The 30% percent increase in the last four years has also opened the gates for more people to come see the majestic species in the wilderness.     

Many people are under the impression that India does not have strong wildlife conservation laws. On the contrary, India has some of the most stringent legislations to protect wildlife and habitats. It is also vital to understand which institutions control land in India before any conservation interventions can be attempted in any landscape. The legal status of the land must first be ascertained so that one can engage with the correct authorities or agencies. The Wildlife (Protection) Act (WLPA), 1972 is an important statute that provides a powerful legal framework for prohibition of hunting, protection and management of wildlife habitats, establishment of protected areas, regulation and control of trade in parts and products derived from wildlife, and management of zoos. The WLPA provides for several categories of Protected Areas/Reserves such as National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries, Tiger Reserves, Conservation Reserves, and Community Reserves. National parks and Tiger Reserves are by law more strictly protected, allowing virtually no human activity except that which is in the interest of wildlife conservation. Grazing and private tenurial rights are disallowed in National Parks but can be allowed in sanctuaries at the discretion of the Chief Wildlife Warden. The amended WLPA does not allow for any commercial exploitation of forest produce in both national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, and local communities can collect forest produce only for their bona fide needs. Community reserves and conservation reserves are two new categories of protected areas that have been included under the WLPA. These two categories provide a greater role for local communities, stakeholders and civil society as well as the opportunity to protect many areas of conservation value that cannot be designated under strict categories such as wildlife sanctuaries or national parks.

Similarly, the National Wildlife Action Plan of 2002 which replaces the earlier plan adopted in 1983 most closely represents an actual policy on protection of wildlife. It focuses on strengthening and enhancing the protected area network, on the conservation of endangered wildlife and their habitats, on controlling trade in wildlife products and on research, education, and training. Mainly, these two laws have deal with wildlife tourism in India. These laws define areas which are open for touristic activities and any kind of touristic activities outside the designated area is punishable by law. This provides protection of the species and on the other hand enables sustainable wildlife tourism. Under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, the state governments have to notify the list of core and buffer areas of tiger reserves in their territory. Core zone (critical tiger habitats) i.e. where tigers usually rest, reside, feed and breed. Therefore, Government aims at preventing any disturbance in such areas, including tourism. Buffer zones constitute the fringe areas (The outside boundary or surface of something) of tiger reserves up to 10 KMs where tourism is allowed. An important judgement taken by the Supreme Court in July 2012 was to ban tiger tourism from the core areas of tiger reserves. This was perceived negatively but it had to be done for the protection of the species. But after a few months it was lifted as the absence of tourism might lead to poaching activities.   

Tiger tourism has mainly emerged because of the Project Tiger which is central scheme started in 1973 and is currently being implemented in 41 Tiger Reserves in 17 states. Project Tiger aims at ‘in-situ’ conservation or on site conservation. Project Tiger provides for staff, equipment, and infrastructure in tiger reserves. It also provides compensation, in case a man or livestock is killed by wild animals etc. National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body which coordinate, implement and monitor Project Tiger along with preparing annual reports.

There are many pros and cons associated with tiger tourism in India. The advantage from tiger tourism is that tiger tourism sector accounts as a major source of income to the domestic economy. There are towns which depend on tiger tourism such as Ranthambore in Rajasthan where tiger tourism offers direct as well as indirect livelihood opportunities to the local people. Similarly, the state of Madhya Pradesh has recorded high level of employment opportunities for the locals through tiger tourism. Tourism actually has helped in the boom of tiger population as through tourism there are more ears and eyes present on the ground level and presence of tourists does not deter tiger’s willingness to hunt or breed. Through tourism, poaching rate has actually come down and most poaching activities are reported during the off season. Touristic activities also reduce the dependence of the local communities on the forest for their livelihood.

The loopholes in tiger tourism can be noted on the recklessness of the tour operators who offer day and night tours. The amount of chaos due to the vehicles, honking, shouting and flash lights might disturb the tigers. Unsustainable constructions of resorts, guest houses, camps lead to degradation of forests. With more tourists, there will be more wastes which degrade the environment.

Wildlife tourism sector has made India prominent in the world map and in recent years the boom of this sector has also seen the decrease in poaching activities which is one of the reasons for the increase in tiger population. But the problem lies in the fact that other important species are not as lucky as the tiger. The status of the Asian Rhino, Gibbon etc. is reaching the endangered mark and they are still being poached recklessly. No particular scheme is there for such species. The plight of smaller species is also not in good shape. For having a successful wildlife tourism sector, India needs to broaden its horizon and implement schemes like Project Tiger for other species as well.

References:

·         http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2012/oct/18/india-lifts-ban-tiger-tourism

·         http://www.sanctuaryasia.com/magazines/cover-story/6827-wildlife-tourism-can-india-turn-it-into-a-conservation-tool.html

·         http://www.conservationindia.org/topics/wildlife-tourism

http://www.thewildlifeofindia.com/blog/increase-in-wildlife-tourism-a-positive-step-towards-conservation.html

Indian Football: Ache din kab ayenge?

As a child born in the early nineties, I was more of a cricket buff. The flashy batting of the Sri Lankans, fiercest bowling attacks of the Africans and Australians, and of course the frail one-man batting line up of Indians; cricket was absolutely a bliss. But then as time passed, Indian cricket evolved so did the fans of the game.With 2 World Cups, 2 Champions Trophy, 1 T20 World Cup and attaining temporary supremacy in Tests, and a very rich board; India has become a juggernaut in International Cricket.

I don't recall exactly when I started watching football, but I do follow football because of the love I developed for the game. Because I was only a player with limited abilities, watching football became an obsession. I chose Manchester United as my mecca in the footballing world and was fascinated by France (Zidane era) before attaining puberty. In the I-League, I followed Bengaluru FC, ISL its NorthEast FC and teams from other European leagues as well. But I did start watching football with France and Manchester United  and later on moved to Indian football and I would not deny that.

There is a distinction in loving the game and following a football club which many people don't understand. 

When I talk about Indian Football, its always the one story that I hear about how the Indian football team qualified during 1950 Jules Rimmet Trophy (Currently, FIFA World Cup), Brazil but couldn't play to their merit because 'they were used to barefoot football'. I am pretty sure most of football fans from India must be familiar with this story. But then the truth is that India never sent a team to Brazil that is why we didn't play. The reasons were lack of communication, finance and most importantly, selection of the team.  See, 1950 was also the year India was hosting the Asian Games which was postponed to 1951. This was also another reason for not sending a team since it was the first time where Indians were the hosts and spending money on a football team for Brazil? Are you kidding? Anyway, Indian football's past is filled with one major success i.e. the 1948 World cup for playing in it, Nehru Cup and 'few cups here and there'.

Yesterday (12th March, 2015) I watched the pre-qualifier for 2018 World Cup, Russia against Nepal. I must admit that in all the years I've seen India playing football, they played the most attractive football yesterday. The pressing, the long through balls, the defensive abilities and some partially shoddy finishing got us the result of two nil. I still feel we could have scored at least 5 goals. But what I didn't like was the empty stadiums, and the horrible broadcasting. The pitch was great and so were the match officials. Star Sports, who created such massive PR strategies for the Indian Super League (ISL) was only limited to the bill boards in this match. If people do not even know that there's a crucial match for the national team, then how do you expect the fans to follow the national team? The All India Football Federation (AIFF) officials were present and were saying how India is going great in football but is it the case here?

One can easily point fingers to cricket and the Indian football fans who only watch leagues from other countries but fail to follow football in India except the ISL. But then it won't be justified and these excuses are not genuine any more.

Indian Football following is in a rut which is not a surprise and football lovers from India cannot be blamed for supporting European clubs because there is a acute weakness in the communication process of the AIFF. Private news channels rarely feature I-League or Santosh Trophy features in their sports segment. Online content is also minimal for these competitions. The ISL was an absolute success which attracted record number of fans in the stadiums. One might say that it was the presence of international stars that made it happen. But besides retired international footballers, it was the brilliant PR strategies, Private partnership, humongous money by the government  and a pro-active role of the AIFF that made it a big thing. Then what in the world is happening in the domestic league and cups? Why are the stadiums empty in an international qualifier when the basic tickets are just for INR 100.

There is a need to strengthen the communication in terms of fans. Star Sports can further enforce their media dictatorship by showing more action from I-league and other domestic cups and creating shows like 'Sizzling Chettri' or 'Subroto, the Wall' and can begin with something basic like 'Know your players'. But on a serious note, if private parties are given more investment opportunities and the football board be de-centralized, there is a chance that the sleeping giant, India can also dominate in the game of football. I am no expert in sports management but its even clear to me that the present set up is not working out. If ISL can be a big deal, why can't I-League and cup games be leveled to the same heights? Bengaluru FC is one team in the I-League where the fans even travel for away games! How did they do it? they just 'connected' with the fans.

BCCI has shown how money changes fortunes, then what is up with AIFF? Media houses and private parties have to take the initiative to strengthen the game in India. Currently, we are 171 (February 2015 ratings) in the World Rankings which is a shame because finances wise, India is better than most African countries in the rankings. Then where is it going wrong? India is not short of football fans but why the half-empty stadiums? Communication is the most crucial aspect which should be prioritized by the AIFF.

Lets support the game and our country, rather than sulking and shouting 'we never qualify' song. Small drops make up an ocean. Lets give the game a chance to thrive in a country driven by cricket, Bollywood, Ache din and Bans.

For starters, knowing the name of the players might be a good idea.   

                 

       

Y U do this, Oh! Manchester United?

I remember an interview, where someone said that Sir Alex just before  the game with Spurs, just came inside the dressing room and said," Its  just Totenham, Lads" and left. That was confidence. 

Been a United Fan for the last 12 years (Die-hardness was sprinkled when I learnt the rules of the game, courtesy FIFA 2005)  and have never seen such monotonous back passes and long balls in the history of United gameplay.

Though it would wrong to directly target Van Gaal but then I do feel there is something wrong with his 'philosophy', atleast in the Premier League. The possession football was usually employed by United in Champions league with bigger clubs rather than being used with clubs like Burnley, OPR in this season (No Offence). 

Now I am even scared when we face the teams in the relegation zone. Confidence has gone for hike from the team. If not for David De Gea, we would have been 10th or 11th in the league.

The primary problem is that we do not have a fixed team. The back four changes in almost all the games, our main striker was played out of position, Falcao is not the same anymore, Fellaini is getting more chances than Mata, Di Maria is losing his confidence, Janujaz is becoming 'Nani-er'. Out of the 150M spent, only Blind and Rojo have given satisfactory performances.

LVG is a good tactician but he mostly thrives in a Galácticos system. Whereas, currently United are not anyway near that. 

The thing about losing is, if you play attractive football and loose even the opponents respect you. But if you win because of luck and long balls then behold the memes and importantly the morale of the fans goes for the toss.

Losing is a part of the game. Great teams have lost their way but have come back. Liverpool, Arsenal and this time Southampton are some examples. I don't mind losing but the way United has lost the games this season is frustrating. When you have a designated RB in the squad, Valencia has been fielded there. A versatile midfielder, Carrick is played in the defense. What's next, Valdes as a striker?

The spirit of attacking football is dying out, for which the devils were famous for. I  am pretty impressed by the way the Gunners, West Ham and Southampton have played. There is an intent of attacking, one touch football. I am sorry to say but United are desperately using long ball tactics which is not creative at all (read desperation) and is the basics in Football tactics 101.

The remaining fixtures are going to be really difficult. It will decide if we will play Champions league or Europa league. The way we have played this season, we actually do not deserve to be in the Champions league.

As a die hard fan, I am more than happy to be in the losing side than winning games based on luck, long-ball and back passes.

I hope and wish that we can see the attacking and not-giving-a-fuck Manchester United in the future, most importantly in the near future.  

Watching a match till 3:30 AM and going to office after sleeping 3 hours is not a child's play and needs Cojones. I hope see some from Manchester United too. Redemption is the right word here.

GGMU.

Human-wildlife conflict: why India need to handle it better

Since evolution of human beings, we have emerged as the biggest predators of all time. The industrial revolution triggered modernity and development across the globe which has both been a boon (economically) and a bane (environmentally) for humanity. The hunger for development has led to the loss of precious wildlife. According to a report released in September 2014 by World Wildlife Fund for Nature (WWF), between 1970 and 2010 the world has lost 52% of wildlife species. With such a huge loss of wildlife species, there is a direct acceleration of climate change. The reason being, wildlife is a key component of the existing bio-diversity and such a huge loss is disrupting the ecological balance eventually changing the environment.

There are key cases which show that re-introduction of wildlife species can change and sustain the ecosystem. The perfect example is the re-introduction of wolves in the Yellowstone National Park in the United States of America.     

Though India only represents 2.4 percent of the world area but the faunal population accounts for 7.3 percent of the world. This faunal population boasts of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, one-horned Rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, and Leopard etc. The Western Ghat is the hotspot of biodiversity in the country. New species of reptiles and amphibians are still being discovered. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 has also helped in the cause of protecting and supporting the faunal population.

But times are changing. Incessant poaching and frequent human-wildlife conflict is affecting the population of some of the prime species. In Assam, the one horned Rhino has been poached for its horn which according to voodoo belief is supposed to have medicinal qualities. Similarly, the story of Tiger and Leopard and the tusks of Elephants is another instance of the illegal trafficking of animal parts for profitable ventures.

In a developing country like India, the frequency of human-animal conflict is really high. Some of the classic examples can be of leopards in Guwahati, Assam; Mumbai, Maharashtra; Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The story of leopards is just an instance regarding the situation in primary urban cities of the country. The popular belief is that the wild animals are encroaching upon the human settlements but the truth is that we have been encroaching upon the animal’s territories. The instance of leopard is also important because for animals like Tigers and Elephants which have dedicated protection movements and schemes the leopard has to protect and sustain itself.

Similarly, not all tigers are safe either. The tigers who roam in the periphery of the national parks are regularly involved in such conflicts. The documentary by Krishnendu Bose titled the Forgotten Tigers shows the plight of such tigers. Uncontrolled development is ripping up the habitats of the wildlife species which is a huge factor in the acceleration of climate change. Destruction of habitats also has affected the migratory birds nesting habits.

Development has only helped the humans but in return has forced some major wildlife species in the endangered list. Just blaming the policy makers is not the right approach either since we crave for better roads, better water supply and better infrastructure. With urbanization already taking a toll in the human occupied areas, the only remaining areas are the ones that belong to the faunal population.  

Though it is true that human-wildlife conflict is a global phenomenon but what matters is how one country handles the situation. For instance, in the case of most human wildlife interactions there are chaos with people crowding all over the place which only worsens the situation. It is quite surprising that in a country with billions of people there are so less such conflicts. More understanding and awareness is required especially for the people living near the wildlife sanctuaries and parks. A perfect example of managing human-wildlife conflict can be seen in this particular case in Sonitpur, Assam where a team of WWF with the local community didn’t let the situation go out of control. The forest officials have to do more than collaring the animals. Most importantly the community has to be involved so that there are no negative sentiments against the animals. Strengthening the Indian Forest Act can be a good beginning.

The existence of human beings is directly proportional to the existence of the flora and the fauna. The sooner we realize it, the longer we will exist.         

Why Indian cities need sustainability

Very often, the impacts of climate change are studied in terms of rural areas. The rural approach in terms of impact assessment from climate change is justified because the rural population of the country are the most vulnerable because of their dependency on natural resources. The government of India along with several key international and domestic non-governmental organisation are working towards adaptation and mitigation mechanisms to minimize the impacts of climate change mostly in rural areas.

With respect to climate change, adaptation means antedating the impacts of climate change and acclimating to the impacts either to minimize the damage (Switching to renewable sources) or to reap the benefit from the impacts (Changing agricultural patterns with respect to the changing climate). Mitigation means limiting the emissions of greenhouse gases by using new technology or renewable technology and by changing older technology more efficient.

The urban centers of India are also under pressure from the impacts of climate change. The impacts can be seen in the bad air quality levels in the major cities. Congestion, ground water pollution, lack of green cover, climate variability and change are gripping the urban cities. One must not overlook the contribution of the cities in the carbon emission list. The ever increasing automobiles on the street are emitting carbon dioxide, Air-conditioners, and other electric appliances are consuming electricity which is increasing the demand for more. According to the Food & Agriculture Organization of United Nations (FAO) report states that, “Cities occupy less than 3% of the global terrestrial surface but accounts for 78% of the carbon emissions”. The improvement in the quality of life is not improving the environment in the urban areas.  

The problem is the lack of attention from the policy makers. Considerable work has been done in the rural areas but somehow very little has been done in the urban settings. Though sustainable practices like carpooling and consumption of power saving home appliances are being followed by the people but it has not happened on a larger scale. The depleting levels and pollution of groundwater is another big problem in the urban areas.

The solution lies in developing a framework in tandem to the United Nation’s Sustainable cities programme. 

The main focus of the policy makers have to be on improving resource use and reducing pollution and poverty. The growing number of slums in urban hubs of India does not have access to the basic services. Waste management is a big issue in the urban areas where waste is being burnt in the open with the minimum segregation. Sanitation is another facet where much improvement is required. Open defecation and urination is also an issue in the urban areas. More public toilet complexes should be made for addressing this issue. From the gender perspective, women have been vulnerable because of the lack of sanitation infrastructure.

Safe drinking water is another issue where more emphasis should be given. The groundwater should be protected and new groundwater conservation and rainwater harvesting should be given priority. Increasing the green cover of urban areas should also be in the priority list of the policy makers as to tackle the increasing carbon emissions, green cover in a city is the necessary. For instance, the concept of urban green space can be implemented.    

Urban areas are the economic hotbeds where people come to better their standard of living. But without a healthy environment, there is no improvement in the standard of living. The need of the hour in India is more sustainable cities.