Evaluating the Performance of the Davangere-Harihar Urban Development Authority: Citizen Satisfaction, Service Delivery, and the Imperative for Enhanced Public Participation

Abstract

This study assesses the performance of the Davangere-Harihar Urban Development Authority (DHUDA) from the inhabitants' viewpoint, emphasizing service delivery and general satisfaction with urban development planning. The research, derived from a survey of 192 participants, reveals that a substantial majority (79.16%) expressed satisfaction with DHUDA's execution of its fundamental goal in successful urban planning and development. High satisfaction levels are reported for significant development projects, including layouts, roads, and sewers (95.83% satisfied), as well as for regulatory approvals such as NOCs (91.66% of beneficiaries). The survey highlights significant areas of discontent related to social equality and public involvement. More than half of the respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of housing schemes for the underprivileged (55.20% unsatisfied), and a significant majority (77.6%) said that DHUDA disregards public recommendations. The investigation indicates that political intervention is regarded as the most significant barrier (80.20%) to efficient operation. The research examines these findings through the frameworks of New Public Management (NPM) and Good Governance, contending that DHUDA operates as an efficient technical executor but a deficient proponent of social fairness. Urgent institutional reforms are necessary to promote a responsive and participatory government framework. The results indicate an immediate necessity for DHUDA to enhance openness, guarantee fairness in land allocation, and implement methods for authentic, systematic public engagement.