At the sixth edition of the IE Thinc: CITIES series, presented by The Indian Express with Omidyar Network India and moderated by Manraj Grewal Sharma, Resident Editor, Chandigarh, panellists discussed how Chandigarh can solve its waste management issues Kapil Setia: Chandigarh was the first city conceived post-independence as a benchmark for India’s development, symbolising the aspirations of a new, developing nation. The aim was to move away from traditional town mechanisms and create a sustainable, equitable society where the poorest had access to the same amenities as the rich. Socialism was the guiding principle. It was about building an inclusive city for all. The original plan was conceived by American planner Albert Mayer and Polish architect Matthew Nowicki. They designed Chandigarh’s layout inspired by a leaf vein network, creating blocks and super blocks, later called sectors, forming the city’s core. This structure introduced the idea that human activity functions best when organised into four essential needs: living, working, care of body, mind, and spirit, and circulation. Ensuring these were well-planned was critical to making the city …