Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. General K.T. Parnaik (Retd.) inaugurated the East Zone Conference of the Institute of Town Planners India (ITPI) in Itanagar on December 7. The conference, themed “Need for Planned Urbanization in the North-Eastern States,” brought together urban planners and experts to address pressing urban challenges in the region. The event was a collaborative effort between ITPI and the Directorate of Town Planning, Department of Urban Affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh. Speaking at the inaugural session, Governor Parnaik emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive urban planning to tackle the inadequacies in infrastructure, parking facilities, and public spaces like parks. “These shortcomings significantly impact the quality of life, necessitating holistic and sustainable urban planning,” he stated.
Highlighting the unique challenges of the North-East, the Governor pointed to its vast forest cover, limited habitable land, and vulnerability to natural calamities such as landslides and floods. He called for development that harmonizes urban growth with environmental conservation while respecting the region’s cultural heritage. “A region-wide approach to planning will foster balanced growth, efficient resource allocation, and improved connectivity across districts, driving economic and social integration,” he explained. He also urged the use of modern technologies like GIS, AI-based planning tools, and remote sensing to enhance the state’s planning capabilities. Governor Parnaik proposed utilizing compensation funds from hydropower projects to develop smart model villages. These villages would blend traditional aesthetics with modern amenities such as schools, markets, community halls, playgrounds, and dispensaries. He emphasized the importance of inclusive urban spaces that preserve natural beauty while promoting resilience and sustainability.
The Governor called on ITPI to assist the state in capacity building and knowledge sharing. With guidance from reputed technical institutes, he envisioned a future where Arunachal Pradesh’s towns and villages stand out for their planning excellence and community resilience. The conference was attended by Minister of Urban Affairs, Land Management, and Civil Aviation Balo Raja; ITPI President N.K. Patel; Secretary-General V.P. Kulshrestha; Urban Affairs Commissioner Yashpal Garg; and ITPI Coordinator Pradeep Kapoor. Town planners and urban development professionals from nine states, including leading educational institutions, also participated.
