Civic officials of US city, Kerala discuss planning models

Civic authorities of Thiruvananthapuram and Carmel city of Indiana state in United States met here today to discuss and share urban planning models.
Titled as Thiru-Carmel Confluence, the meeting was attended by Carmel City Mayor James Brainard, newly elected city Corporation Mayor here V K Prasanth and various municipal chairpersons.
During his address, Brainard, the six-time mayor of the US city, said he adopted several sustainable and environment- friendly measures to make Carmel one of the most livable cities of United States.
"Over 42,000 trees have been planted in Carmel since 1995. We encourage use of LEED standards. Our planning and designing principles promote energy conservation," he said explaining the urban development models adopted in his city.

Street trees, cycle and pedestrian paths make Carmel more beautiful, he said, adding that a five-tier weekly solid waste management system keep the city clean.
He also presented a book on history of Carmel to the city corporation mayor V K Prasanth, who in his address, said implementing sustainable and inclusive development models in the capital city is one of his major missions.
Former Minister and CPI(M) Polit Bureau member M A Baby and US Consulate official Andie De Arment also took part in the event organised by Malayalam daily Kerala Kaumudi.