Honorable Members of the General Body, Esteemed Citizens of Coimbatore,
and Distinguished Guests,
I stand before you today, deeply honored, as your Chairperson of the Municipal
Finance Committee. As we gather here, let us remember the wise words of
Mahatma Gandhi: “The future depends on what we do in the present.” In this
moment, we hold the power to shape a better, more sustainable future for
Coimbatore, built on the foundation of responsible governance and visionary
leadership.
Urban governance, as defined by UN Habitat, encompasses the framework of
institutions, processes, and mechanisms that enable the efficient planning,
management, and development of our cities. This governance ensures that services
are delivered effectively and that our urban growth remains sustainable. Here in
India, the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (CAA) granted Urban Local Bodies
(ULBs) the power to take charge of their development, providing the autonomy to
govern with accountability and foresight.
Coimbatore, which was established as the capital of Coimbatore District in 1804,
earned its municipality status in 1866 and was elevated to the stature of a
municipal corporation in 1981. Today, our city thrives as a vibrant hub, divided
into five administrative zones—East, West, North, South, and Central—each
further subdivided into 20 wards. Together, we ensure the effective governance of
this dynamic city.
Our city's finances are the backbone of our progress. CCMC's revenue sources are
led by property tax, contributing 34%, and the devolution fund, adding another
28%. However, like many growing urban centers, we face challenges such as
increased operating expenses and depreciation costs. But as Ralph Waldo Emerson
once said, “The first wealth is health,” and in the context of a city, financial health
is paramount to achieving all else.
I am proud to report some of our significant achievements. First, the successful
implementation of e-Governance in our 24-hour drinking water project, which
earned us a national award presented by the Central Government on 9th December
2022 in Guwahati. Second, Coimbatore Smart City Ltd secured first prize in the
India Smart Cities Awards Contest (ISAC) in 2022 under the ‘Built Environment’
category, recognized for our development of lakes and model roads under the
Smart Cities Mission. We are honored to be recipients of such prestigious
accolades.
Looking ahead, our innovative work continues. We have been recognized by the
State Government for developing the Best Geospatial Information Application
App, and for the successful implementation of a QR Code system in community
and public toilets, awarded in March 2023 by the Honorable Minister of Municipal
Administration, Urban, and Water Supply.
Our vision, however, extends beyond awards.
Imagine a life with less pollution, cleaner air, and reduced dependency on fossil
fuels—this is not just a dream but a reality we can build through our "Clean
Energy Public Transport Transition Policy." This policy will focus on reducing air
pollution and fossil fuel reliance by embracing renewable energy. Our
commitment to this policy aligns with global climate goals and sustainable
development, driving Coimbatore towards a greener future.
Why is this policy necessary? Rising air pollution, traffic congestion, and the long-
term environmental impact of fossil fuel consumption demand immediate action.
Through this transition, Coimbatore will enjoy numerous benefits—reduced
emissions, enhanced public transport, energy independence, and even economic
gains. This isn't just about improving transportation; it’s about ensuring a
livable future for generations to come.
The policy is built on a simple yet effective process: generating energy through
waste-to-energy conversion and solar power, storing it, and distributing it across
sectors, including public transport. By converting this energy into power for our
transportation system, we not only promote sustainability but also unlock revenue
opportunities.
For instance, through carbon credit trading, CCMC can earn revenue by reducing
greenhouse gas emissions. If Coimbatore cuts 100,000 metric tons of CO₂
annually, at a conservative credit price of ₹500 per ton, the municipality could
generate ₹5 crores annually. Should the price rise to ₹1,000 per ton, this revenue
could double to ₹10 crores. As we move towards cleaner energy, this revenue can
help fund further environmental initiatives.
Additionally, by issuing green bonds, CCMC can attract investments aimed at
supporting sustainable development, generating both capital and potential revenue
from bond returns. This is not just a policy for today; it is a strategy for our
city's long-term financial and environmental health.
In terms of land use, we can lease municipal land for solar panel installations, EV
charging stations, and waste-to-energy plants, generating rental income while
contributing to our clean energy goals. Furthermore, by transitioning to electric
buses, we will save on fuel and maintenance costs, making our public
transportation system more efficient and less dependent on traditional fuel sources.
As Aristotle wisely said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” This is
the essence of our work—every initiative, policy, and project we undertake is a
piece of the larger puzzle that will create a stronger, more resilient, and greener
Coimbatore.
Let us work together, not only for the present but for the future of our city. Thank
you for your trust, your collaboration, and your commitment to making
Coimbatore a beacon of progress and sustainability.
Jai Hind!
