Bhopal’s government team has studied the successful models of Delhi and Gujarat to refine its master plan. With a vision to improve Bhopal’s urban infrastructure, the government officers undertook visits to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and key towns in Gujarat to examine best practices that could be adopted for the city’s growth.
Sources indicate that the Chief Secretary directed this in-depth study to ensure the incorporation of effective strategies into Bhopal’s future blueprint.The government team met with officials from both Delhi and Gujarat, exchanging ideas and learning from their experiences. The team was particularly impressed with the concept of wooded areas in Delhi and the Town Planning Scheme (TPS) in Gujarat. Both models are seen as valuable additions to the proposed Bhopal Master Plan. The discussions highlighted how Delhi’s approach to enhancing green spaces and integrating wooded areas into urban development has helped improve both aesthetics and the environment. Similarly, Gujarat’s TPS, where the government acquires land for development and redistributes a portion back to farmers, has shown positive results in promoting sustainable development while maintaining public trust.
One key observation was the Gujarat government’s successful handling of land acquisition for urban planning. In cities across Gujarat, land is acquired for development, and a significant portion is returned to farmers after completion. This system ensures that development benefits both the government and local communities, fostering cooperation and ensuring that the landowners are treated fairly. It was noted that, in contrast, Madhya Pradesh’s current model returns 50% of the land to the government after development, while the other 50% is given back to farmers. The team suggested that Bhopal could benefit from adopting a similar approach to land redistribution, which could enhance its urban planning processes.
Moreover, the Gujarat model has also built trust within communities. The study team noted that in Gujarat, residents voluntarily offered their land for development because they trusted the timely and transparent processes followed by the government. This trust between the government and the public could be a critical factor in ensuring the success of future urban projects in Bhopal.Incorporating lessons from these regions, the Bhopal Master Plan could see the introduction of larger buffer zones around lakes, transforming them into forest-like areas with abundant greenery. This initiative could not only protect Bhopal’s water resources but also create sustainable, eco-friendly spaces for residents. The idea of promoting green spaces as part of urban development reflects the growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental stewardship in urban planning.
The government team’s findings and recommendations have been submitted to the Chief Secretary.
If adopted, these practices could significantly enhance the livability of Bhopal, making it a model for other cities looking to balance urban growth with environmental sustainability. With these changes, the city would not only see improved infrastructure but also contribute to reducing its carbon footprint and creating a greener, more equitable environment for its residents.The study visits to Delhi and Gujarat are a part of the ongoing efforts by Bhopal’s leadership to transform the city into a modern, sustainable urban space. These lessons from other regions could help Bhopal become a more organized, well-planned city where residents enjoy better infrastructure, enhanced public services, and a higher quality of life.As Bhopal moves forward with its master plan, these insights from Delhi and Gujarat could be pivotal in ensuring that the city’s growth is both sustainable and people-friendly. The next few years could mark a turning point for Bhopal, as these best practices are integrated into the city’s development, helping to achieve a balance between urbanization and environmental preservation
