During a meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in September, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the desire to create multiple cities similar to Singapore in India. What exactly did Modi mean by this, and is it feasible for India to have multiple cities like Singapore?
Singapore has long been seen as a model city by leaders around the world due to its advanced technology, safety, prosperity, high human capital, and lack of political instability. Since gaining independence in 1965 with a GDP per capita of $500, Singapore has seen significant economic growth, with the current GDP per capita standing at around $85,000. However, Singapore’s unique status as an independent city-state with the freedom to implement its own policies sets it apart from cities in India.
Indian cities lack autonomy in decision-making, with limited power given to mayors and significant authority held by unelected officials. Public services in Indian cities are often substandard, necessitating public-private partnerships for service provision. While the concept of creating cities like Singapore in India is appealing, improving existing infrastructure through initiatives like the Smart Cities Mission may be a more practical approach.
Cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai have similarities to Singapore and Hong Kong, both in terms of their historical development and economic significance. The success of planned cities in India, such as Chandigarh, depends on factors like political will, urban planning, and financial incentives. Building new cities as opposed to enhancing existing ones may not always yield the desired results.
The creation of successful planned cities is not guaranteed, as evidenced by abandoned projects like Fatehpur Sikri. Rather than striving to replicate Singapore, India should focus on enhancing the livability and economic potential of its current cities, which serve as vital cultural and economic hubs. Sustainable urban development and effective policies can lead to prosperity, similar to cities like Frankfurt, Bangkok, or Tokyo.
While aiming to emulate Singapore is not inherently negative, India’s focus should be on maximizing the potential of its existing cities rather than investing in new urban initiatives without guaranteed returns.