India, Feb. 25 -- Anaclaudia Rossbach, executive director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), is visiting India this week. In an interview with HT, she speaks about critical urban challenges facing the world. She discusses the plans, investments, and systemic changes needed to address these challenges, as well as what India can offer as solutions to cities worldwide. Edited excerpts.

Air pollution, traffic congestion, water shortages, poor sanitation, and infrastructure deficits are serious concerns in Indian cities. How does UN-Habitat perceive these issues? Do you think India is adequately addressing these problems?

India is not unique in terms of facing these challenges. They can be seen in urban settings,...