<span style="color: #222222;">Haryana Chief Secretary, Sanjeev Kaushal today emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in the state's approach to urban development. He identified several key areas requiring immediate attention, urging stakeholders to embrace innovative solutions and adapt to changing dynamics.<br />''<br />''He was addressing the Urban Planners after inaugurating the 'Haryana Conclave on Urban Planning', organized by the Department of Town and Country Planning Haryana and High Level Committee on Urban Planning of Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs at Chandigarh today.<br />''<br />''Stressing the importance of utilizing existing resources efficiently, the Chief Secretary advocated for prioritizing brownfield development over greenfield projects. He said that there is need to focus on redeveloping under-utilised land within cities, promoting transit-oriented development, and ensuring sustainable infrastructure upgrades.<br />''<br />''While acknowledging the challenges of traffic congestion and pollution, the Chief Secretary called for a comprehensive review of urban transportation systems. He said that the focus should be on creating vibrant, pedestrian-friendly spaces that prioritise people over cars."<br />''<br />''Moving beyond conventional approaches, the Chief Secretary urged the adoption of sustainable development models for new settlements.<br />''<br />''Acknowledging concerns about the multiplicity of agencies involved in urban development, the Chief Secretary called for streamlined governance.  He stressed the need  to explore better coordination mechanisms and clearly define roles and responsibilities to ensure smooth implementation of projects.<br />''<br />''Acknowledging the challenge of sprawling unauthorized colonies, the Chief Secretary emphasized long-term strategic planning to overcome it.</span><br />