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PESHAWAR, Jan 12 (APP):A media engagement session on sustainable cities emphasized the need for active citizen participation in advocacy efforts to promote practices that can transform major towns into fully equipped urban centres aligned with modern living standards.
The session was organized by Institute of Urbanization (IoU) for a consultative meeting of new Chairperson of Board of Directors of IoU, Dr. Tariq Banuri with media persons.
Media persons from different cities of the country including Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar and Gilgit Baltistan participated in the meeting.
Senior Research Fellow IoU, Dr. Ejaz Ahmad, in his introductory remarks, highlighted the issues cities are facing due to increasing urbanization in the country.
He said there is serious of initiating dialogue on sustainable urban development for which every sector should play its role including media.
Ejaz said urban areas are under severe strain due to the steady migration of people from rural regions to major cities in search of livelihoods, better educational opportunities, improved healthcare services, and reliable civic amenities.
Due to the massive migration of people to cities, urban infrastructure is becoming increasingly overburdened and requires transformative improvements to meet the demands of better living for millions of residents.
He also shared the efforts made by IoU for promotion of sustainable development by carrying out different projects like nature inclusive practices, greenry promotion, rain water recharging etc.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Tariq Banuri remarked that urban areas hold a unique significance, as they are home to the largest population and reflect a rich diversity of society.
In cities, he added, civility and political culture are strengthened through the interaction of large numbers of people from diverse backgrounds and regions.
Keeping in view the importance of urban areas, there is a strong need for increased investment in the development of sustainable cities, ensuring that every resident has access to adequate and dignified living facilities.
Tariq Banuri highlighted that urban areas in the country face major challenges, including inadequate urban mobility, limited access to clean drinking water, insufficient green spaces, and improper solid waste management.
He urged media to focus on these issues by contributing stories, pictures and video packages for highlighting problems being faced by people due to lack of facilities.
During discussion different issues were highlighted by participants besides proposals including engagement of public representatives at Local Government levels, Cantonment officials and other institutions.
Participants also suggested that success stories showcasing improved civic practices from any part of the country should be highlighted in the media, both to inform local governments and to encourage replication in their own areas.
Chairperson IoU, Dr. Tariq Banuri, also supported the suggestion of holding meetings with mayors of provincial metropolises to discuss the importance of sustainable urban development and to review proposals for achieving these goals.