Abstract
The process of globalisation has resulted in the accelerated growth and functional diversification of many large cities of
the developing world (the so called mega cities). While this development has created opportunities for economic growth
and improvement in the standard of living (at least for some) it has also presented significant planning challenges for those
government-based authorities charged with the responsibility of providing basic infrastructure and services. Bangalore,
the capital of Karnataka state in southern India, is an example of a mega city struggling to cope with a range of challenges
resulting from the city’s integration into the global economy. These challenges include coping with the consequences of
rapid urbanisation – access to clean water and sanitation services and the manner in which these impact on public health.
A range of responses, initiated by governments, non-government organisations (NGOs), and community-based (often
self-help) associations, have been implemented to address these concerns. The effectiveness of these responses is
largely determined by the degree to which they address the underlying dynamics of change and the extent to which they
empower local communities to take ownership of the decision-making processes that ultimately impact on the quality of
their lives. It is clear that effective governance and the transparency and accountability of decision-making processes are
essential if lasting solutions are to be found to the challenges facing developing cities such as Bangalore.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 83-90 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Asian Social Science |
Volume | 3 |
Issue number | 11 |
Publication status | Published - 2007 |
Keywords
- Bangalore
- mega city
- urbanisation
- globalisation
- water
- sanitation
- healthcare