A high-level delegation from the State Urban Development Department (UDD), led by Minister Bhoj Raj Rai, recently embarked on a three-day official visit to Madrid and Barcelona, Spain. The aim was to engage in discussions focused on advanced practices in urban governance, sustainable infrastructure, and inclusive development. According to a UDD press release, “Madrid and Barcelona exemplify exemplary urban planning, with Madrid integrating expansive green belts and efficient transport networks, while Barcelona showcases innovative mixed-use developments, pedestrian-friendly streets, and world-renowned public space designs.” This visit is part of the department’s efforts to adopt international best practices to enhance Sikkim’s urban growth.
The delegation included UDD Commissioner-cum-Secretary Jitendra Singh Raje, Secretary Yogeeta Rai, Gangtok Mayor Nell Bahadur Chettri, Deputy Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia, and other urban planning officials. They engaged in extensive discussions with Barcelona City Council officials, facilitated by Ricardo Iglesias, head of External Relations at the Madrid City Council.
The meeting agenda focused on key aspects of contemporary urban development. Discussions kicked off with a session on Smart Cities Initiatives and Digital Governance, led by Fernando de Pablo, the General Director of the Digital Office. He detailed how technology can be integrated into public service delivery systems. The talks then progressed to Sustainable Urban Transport and Mobility Solutions, with contributions from Eugenia Martínez, Carlos Mateo, and Cristina Valdés, who highlighted innovative practices in multimodal mobility and non-motorized transport.
Additionally, Jose Luis Cifuentes from Valdemingómez Technology Park discussed urban sanitation and waste management, presenting models for waste-to-energy conversion. The conversations also addressed affordable housing and inclusive urban development. Ana de Miguel, CEO of the Municipal Housing Company, emphasized the need for equitable access to housing.
The agenda concluded with a presentation on participatory urban planning by Luis Tejero, who stressed citizen-centric methods in spatial planning. In a symbolic gesture, Ramon, General Manager of the Barcelona Metropolitan Authority, presented Minister Bhoj Raj Rai with the master plan of Barcelona to promote goodwill and knowledge sharing. This exchange highlighted both parties’ commitment to mutual cooperation in modern city planning.
Overall, the discussions reflected a collaborative spirit and a shared interest in fostering cooperation for future projects. The delegation praised the comprehensive, citizen-focused strategies of the Barcelona City Council and expressed a desire to adapt these approaches to meet Sikkim’s unique urban challenges.
“This visit marks an important milestone in the Department’s ongoing efforts to align with global urban development standards,” the press release noted. It aligns with the Sikkim Chief Minister’s vision of creating people-centric urban spaces that prioritize ecological preservation alongside modern infrastructure, ensuring that Sikkim’s growth remains sustainable and equitable.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/udd-delegation-visits-madrid-and-barcelona-for-knowledge-exchange-on-urban-innovations
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