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The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) transforms urban infrastructure with expanded roads, upgraded facilities, and improved amenities. MCG uses technology for real-time service monitoring, smart utilities, and advanced parking. Environmental initiatives like green spaces, waste-to-energy projects, and electric waste management aim to reduce pollution and promote sustainability. Dr. Narhari Banger, IAS, Municipal Commissioner of Gurugram, outlines MCG’s efforts to transform urban living in an exclusive interview with Ritika Srivastava from Elets News Network (ENN).

With Gurugram being recognised as a millennium city, what steps is the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) taking to enhance urban infrastructure and public services to support its growing population and economic activities?

As a millennium city, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram focuses on enhancing urban infrastructure and public services to support growth and improve quality of life. We are investing in expanding and upgrading road networks and public transit systems to reduce congestion and improve commuting. We also enhance basic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, and healthcare facilities.

Additionally, we are developing state-of-the-art facilities, including international-level sports complexes, art and culture centres, senior citizen facilities, reading corners for the underprivileged, museums, and nature and heritage conservation initiatives. Our efforts include creating a large cultural and international sports complex at Wazirabad to establish Gurugram as a vibrant cultural hub. These initiatives promote sustainable development and ensure the city’s resilience amid economic expansion.

Smart city initiatives are transforming urban governance and service delivery. How is the MCG leveraging technology to improve efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement in Gurugram?

The Municipal Corporation is at the forefront of leveraging technology to enhance governance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.

Key initiatives include:

• Digital Platforms: These are used for service delivery and real-time monitoring of urban services such as sewer connections, property tax, ‘Saral registrations’, and online grievance management.
• Smart Utilities: Implementation of smart metering and advanced parking systems, cloth bag vending machines.
• Urban Cleanliness: Use of power rodding, root cutter machines, super suckers, jetting machines, and sweeping and suction ‘Jatayu machines’ for road sweeping.
• Citizen Feedback: Engagement through call centres and mobile apps.
• Digital Lab: Creation of a digital lab within a new 24/7 public library.
• Advanced Parking: Development of three multilevel parking complexes with digital management systems.

These measures will streamline operations, enhance transparency, and improve the urban experience for our residents.

Gurugram has faced challenges related to water supply and management. What measures has the MCG taken to ensure adequate and sustainable water resources for the city?

Addressing water supply challenges is a top priority for our corporation. We have a 24-hour water supply plan to ensure uninterrupted service to the city. Comprehensive measures for sustainable water management have been implemented, including rainwater harvesting and efficient irrigation techniques in green belts and parks. Investments in water treatment and recycling facilities further support our efforts. Micro STPs have been established in parks, and the treated wastewater is used to maintain green belts, parks, and roads.

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Furthermore, we are developing modular roads with integrated solar panels, emphasising our energy conservation and sustainability commitment. Through water conservation awareness campaigns and stringent regulations on water usage, we aim to secure our city’s water resources for current and future generations.

These initiatives are essential for maintaining a reliable and resilient water supply infrastructure amidst growing urban demands.

Environmental sustainability is a critical concern for rapidly growing urban areas. What initiatives has the MCG implemented to promote green spaces, reduce pollution, and manage waste effectively in Gurugram?

Environmental sustainability is integral to our city’s development strategy. Under the ECOTHON Gurugram initiative, the corporation has launched several measures to enhance urban biodiversity, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable waste management. This includes creating green spaces like parks and urban forests, using Electric Vehicles for eco-friendly waste transport, and implementing waste segregation and recycling programs along with awareness campaigns for citizen participation in sustainability. An MoU has been signed with NTPC to establish a Waste to Energy Green Charcoal Plant to tackle the massive challenge of Solid Waste Management in our ever-expanding city.

Moreover, we are developing a heritage park to celebrate Haryana’s culture and history. We are enforcing the ban on Single-Use Plastic and promoting plastic alternatives in all sectors. We are working extensively to develop exemplary Bulk Waste Generators (BWG) waste management practices in the city. By integrating sustainability into urban planning and development policies, we aim to mitigate environmental impacts.

The role of the Municipal Corporation extends to fostering community engagement and addressing citizen grievances. How does the MCG ensure effective communication and responsiveness to the needs of Gurugram’s residents?

Effective communication and responsiveness to citizen needs are integral to our municipal governance approach. The corporation has implemented robust mechanisms for citizen engagement, including public forums, regular Citizen Monitoring Committee meetings, community outreach programs, and digital platforms for feedback and grievance redressal.

A three-tier monitoring system for waste management involving citizen representatives has been established. Two committees with prominent citizen representatives have been set up to provide recommendations on door-to-door waste collection and the management of waste disposal and landfill sites. Regular meetings and participatory initiatives allow residents to contribute to decision-making processes actively.

By promoting transparency and ensuring timely grievance resolution, we aim to build trust and strengthen civic participation in shaping our city’s future.

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