The Maharashtra government has directed all municipal corporations and councils to establish ‘Urban Design Cells.’ The move, aimed at ensuring well-planned urban expansion, seeks to create a structured approach to city beautification while integrating modern infrastructure with traditional aesthetics. The state’s Urban Development Department issued an order on March 28 mandating the inclusion of urban planning experts and non-governmental members in these cells to ensure a holistic, inclusive vision for city transformation.
With rapid urbanisation reshaping cityscapes across the state, the government’s directive underscores the necessity of preserving unique identities while accommodating development. Maharashtra’s 421 planning authorities, including 28 municipal corporations and 234 municipal councils, have been instructed to appoint specialists in heritage conservation, architecture, and structural engineering to guide urban design policies. The mandate seeks to ensure that urban centres do not lose their historical significance amid modernisation efforts. In Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Thane, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Nashik, municipal commissioners will head these cells, while for smaller urban bodies, the Director of Town Planning, Pune, will oversee their operations.
The ‘Urban Design Cells’ will play a crucial role in shaping city aesthetics by developing master plans for historical sites, executing urban beautification projects, and safeguarding landmarks such as forts, temples, and iconic buildings. By integrating cultural narratives into urban planning, the initiative seeks to strike a balance between infrastructure expansion and the preservation of historic charm. Moreover, these cells will influence zoning regulations to align commercial, industrial, and residential developments with the unique character of each city, ensuring that aesthetic cohesion is maintained in rapidly transforming landscapes.
As cities grapple with the dual challenge of expansion and conservation, the state’s initiative provides a structured framework to prevent haphazard growth and safeguard urban identity. While concerns remain about execution and adherence to quality standards, experts believe that formalising urban design processes will lead to more liveable and visually appealing cities. The success of this initiative will hinge on effective implementation and community engagement, making it imperative for all stakeholders to collaborate in shaping the future of Maharashtra’s urban centres.
