Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, is a state known for its rich cultural heritage, natural resources, and a rapidly urbanizing population. With the state's urban population growing steadily, effective urban local governance has become increasingly crucial. Urban local bodies (ULBs) in Odisha play a significant role in managing urban areas, providing essential services, and fostering sustainable development. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the urban local governance structure in Odisha, exploring its historical evolution, legal framework, organizational structure, functions, challenges, and recent initiatives aimed at improving urban management.
Historical Background
The evolution of urban local governance in Odisha mirrors the broader trends in India's municipal administration. During the British colonial period, municipal institutions were established to manage urban centers, primarily to serve the interests of the colonial administration. Post-independence, the need for decentralized governance led to reforms aimed at empowering local bodies.
A significant milestone was the enactment of the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act in 1992, which provided constitutional status to urban local bodies across India, including Odisha. This amendment aimed to strengthen municipal governance by introducing a uniform structure, regular elections, and devolution of powers.
Legal and Institutional Framework
Constitutional Provisions
The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act introduced Part IXA to the Indian Constitution, dealing specifically with municipalities. It mandated the establishment of three types of ULBs based on the size and population of urban areas:
Nagar Panchayats: For areas in transition from rural to urban.
Municipal Councils: For smaller urban areas.
Municipal Corporations: For larger urban areas.
This constitutional framework provided a basis for states to enact their legislation aligning with these provisions.
State-Specific Legislation
In Odisha, the urban local governance is governed by:
Odisha Municipal Act, 1950: Governs municipalities and notified area councils.
Odisha Municipal Corporation Act, 2003: Governs municipal corporations.
These acts outline the composition, powers, functions, and responsibilities of ULBs in the state.
Types of Urban Local Bodies in Odisha
Odisha has a three-tier system of urban governance comprising:
1. Municipal Corporations
Municipal corporations are established in larger cities with substantial populations and greater economic activities. As of 2023, Odisha has several municipal corporations, including:
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation
Cuttack Municipal Corporation
Berhampur Municipal Corporation
Rourkela Municipal Corporation
Sambalpur Municipal Corporation
2. Municipalities
Municipalities govern medium-sized urban areas. They are responsible for a range of civic services and infrastructure development. Examples include:
Balasore Municipality
Baripada Municipality
Jharsuguda Municipality
3. Notified Area Councils (NACs)
NACs manage smaller urban areas or towns transitioning from rural to urban status. They have fewer powers and resources compared to municipalities and corporations.
Organizational Structure
Composition
ULBs in Odisha consist of elected representatives and administrative officials:
Elected Representatives: Councilors elected from wards, and a chairperson or mayor elected directly or indirectly, depending on the ULB type.
Administrative Wing: Headed by commissioners or executive officers appointed by the state government, responsible for day-to-day administration.
Roles and Responsibilities
Councilors: Represent their wards, make decisions on municipal policies, budgets, and by-laws.
Mayor/Chairperson: Presides over meetings, represents the ULB in official functions, and provides leadership.
Commissioner/Executive Officer: Implements policies, oversees administrative functions, and ensures service delivery.
Elections
ULB elections are held every five years, supervised by the State Election Commission. Reservations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women are provided to ensure inclusive representation.
Functions and Responsibilities
Mandatory Functions
Urban Planning: Development plans, land use, zoning regulations.
Regulation of Land Use: Control over building construction, land development.
Water Supply: Provision of safe drinking water.
Public Health and Sanitation: Waste management, sewage disposal, control of diseases.
Fire Services: Maintenance of fire stations and equipment.
Urban Forestry: Environmental conservation, parks, and gardens.
Protection of the Environment: Pollution control measures.
Slum Improvement: Upgrading infrastructure in informal settlements.
Discretionary Functions
Education: Establishment and maintenance of primary schools.
Social Welfare: Programs for marginalized communities.
Cultural Activities: Promotion of arts, culture, and heritage conservation.
Sports Facilities: Development of recreational centers and sports complexes.
Finance and Revenue
Sources of Revenue
Own Revenue:
Property Tax: Major source from residential and commercial properties.
User Charges: Fees for services like water supply, sanitation.
Licenses and Permits: Fees from trade licenses, building permits.
Grants and Transfers:
State Government Grants: Based on recommendations of the State Finance Commission.
Central Government Schemes: Funds from programs like Smart Cities Mission, AMRUT.
Loans and Borrowings: For capital-intensive projects.
Challenges in Revenue Generation
Low Tax Base: Due to inadequate property tax assessments.
Inefficient Collection: Lack of robust mechanisms for revenue collection.
Dependence on Grants: High reliance on state and central government funds.
Key Challenges in Urban Governance
Urbanization Pressures
Rapid urban growth has led to challenges in providing adequate housing, infrastructure, and services.
Infrastructure Deficits
Transportation: Congested roads, lack of public transport.
Water and Sanitation: Limited coverage of piped water, inadequate sewage systems.
Solid Waste Management: Inefficient collection and disposal.
Financial Constraints
Limited financial resources hinder the ability of ULBs to meet the growing demands.
Capacity Building
Human Resources: Shortage of skilled personnel.
Technological Gaps: Lack of modern tools and systems for efficient governance.
Recent Reforms and Initiatives
Smart Cities Mission
Bhubaneswar and Rourkela were selected under the Smart Cities Mission to implement projects focusing on:
Digital Infrastructure: Wi-Fi connectivity, integrated command centers.
Sustainable Development: Energy-efficient systems, green spaces.
Citizen Services: E-governance initiatives, smart solutions.
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
Aimed at improving basic services like water supply, sewerage, and urban transport in several cities across Odisha.
Swachh Bharat Mission
Focused on improving sanitation and cleanliness, with efforts towards making cities open defecation-free and enhancing solid waste management.
Odisha-Specific Initiatives
Odisha Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (OUIDF): Provides financial assistance for urban infrastructure projects.
Jaga Mission: Recognized globally, this initiative aims at upgrading slums by granting land rights and improving living conditions.
Case Studies
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation
E-Governance: Implemented online services for tax payments, grievance redressal.
Urban Planning: Developed comprehensive mobility plans, promoting non-motorized transport.
Smart City Projects: Set up Bhubaneswar Operations Centre for integrated city management.
Rourkela Municipal Corporation
Infrastructure Development: Upgraded roads, drainage systems under various schemes.
Community Participation: Involved citizens in planning through ward committees.
Role of Technology and E-Governance
ULBs in Odisha are increasingly adopting technology to improve efficiency:
Online Services: Digital portals for payments, applications, and information dissemination.
GIS Mapping: For better planning and resource management.
Mobile Applications: For citizen engagement and feedback.
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