India’s cities are growing rapidly but the focus must now shift from building more to creating better places to live. Suresh Babu, Organising Secretary, National Convention of Architectural Engineers, Member ARDB, The institution of Engineers (India), Founder and Principal, Suresh Babu and Partners Architecture + Planners, Urban thinker and Author of “Dream Dialogue Journey”, discusses the need for integrated, inclusive and people-centric urban development, and the role of technology and architectural engineering in shaping future cities.

What is the central idea behind the convention?

India aspires to become a developed nation by 2047 and cities will be central to that transformation. But development cannot be measured only by taller buildings, wider roads or larger infrastructure. It must ultimately be measured by quality of life. The fundamental question is: What kind of cities do we want to leave for the next generation?

Why has liveability become an urgent issue?

Our cities are growing faster than our ability to manage them. Congestion, unaffordable housing, pollution, flooding, inadequate public spaces and climate pressures are becoming part of everyday life. We have become very good at constructing cities; now we must become equally good at making them liveable.

What defines a truly liveable city?

A liveable city puts people before projects. It provides affordable housing, efficient public transport, walkable streets, clean air and water, accessible healthcare and education, safe public spaces and a resilient environment. It must allow everyone – from children and senior citizens to working professionals and persons with disabilities – to experience the city with dignity.

Can technology solve urban challenges?

Technology is an enabler, not the destination. AI, BIM, GIS, LiDAR, digital twins and data analytics can transform planning and urban management. But a city is not smart simply because it uses more technology. The real measure is whether technology makes people’s lives safer, simpler and better.

How can India overcome siloed urban development?

Transport, housing, infrastructure, environment and public spaces are interconnected and cannot be planned in isolation. The Institution of Engineers (India), with its multidisciplinary membership and nationwide network, can bring engineers, architects, planners, policymakers, academics, industry and civic agencies together to translate expertise into integrated action.

What is your message to young professionals?

Don’t restrict yourself to individual buildings. Understand the neighbourhood, the city and its environment. The greatest project before us is not a building – it is the creation of a better India.