Urban initiatives of Odisha govt shortlisted for Guangzhou International Award
Bhubaneswar, Feb 9 (FN Representative) Two innovative urban initiatives of the Odisha government have been shortlisted in the top 15 at the prestigious 2020 Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovations exemplary models of innovative policies and practices. Odisha is the only state from India with two initiatives in the Top 15 and one initiative in the next top 30 deserving interventions for Global Award. The two innovative urban initiatives — Urban Wage Employment Initiative (UWEI) implemented in all 114 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) in Berhampur – have been shortlisted in the top 15 at the prestigious 2020 Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovations exemplary models of innovative policies and practices.
Another innovative and people-centric urban mission ‘Drink from Tap Mission’ in Puri has also been selected in the top 30 list of deserving interventions. Odisha Panchayatiraj minister Pratap Jena congratulated the Department and Officers concerned for their persistent hard work and dedication in setting benchmarks in Urban Development and being an example for others to emulate. While the UWEI was shortlisted for reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing the resilience of the urban population in the State, the initiative in Berhampur was chosen for promoting sustainable environment conservation and women empowerment through Faecal Sludge and Septage Management in the City.
The 2020 Guangzhou Award aimed at recognizing innovation in improving social, economic and environmental sustainability in cities and regions across the world, had received 273 initiatives submitted from 175 cities from 60 countries. The award is co-sponsored by the City of Guangzhou and reputed global networks of cities and local, regional, and metropolitan governments, namely United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) and the World Association of the Major Metropolises (Metropolis). The Award is also supported by renowned global networks committed to sustainable development and addressing climate change namely, ICLEI and C40. All 15 shortlisted cities will receive medals and certificates and all the 45 interventions will be featured in the special publication to be brought out on the Innovative Interventions.