Mumbai/Shanghai: Prospects/Problems--Imitating Global, Failing Local

Do we aspire to be a ‘global’ city like Shanghai, with all the spit and polish to attract foreign investors by the drove? Or can we aim to be a city with a sustainable plan for its development – one that marries ecology with economy? Is it more important for us to forge links with the rest of the world or should we make sure that we are not divorced from our own roots in the hinterland? These are questions and choices that planners must face and make. These choices set the priorities. [Presentation for Future of Our Cities, World Urban Forum, Vancouver, June 23, 2006]