Calibrating Urban Livability in the Global South
Urbanization in the Global South is a complex phenomenon, driving unprecedented changes in urban landscapes. From sprawling megacities to burgeoning towns, the dynamics of urban life are in constant flux, influenced by factors ranging from climate variability to governance structures. Within this context, understanding urban livability becomes paramount, as it encompasses the myriad aspects that contribute to the well-being and quality of life of urban residents. As we delve into the intricate web of urban challenges, it becomes evident that gender plays a crucial role in shaping the urban experience. Gendered perspectives offer unique insights into the differential impacts of urbanization on diverse populations, shedding light on issues such as access to resources, mobility patterns, and participation in decision-making processes. By adopting a gendered lens, we can uncover hidden disparities and inequalities, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable urban development strategies. This book is a compilation of discourse on urban livability encompassing climate resilience, health equity, governance inclusivity, and policy shaping the trajectories of cities in the Global South. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and rigorous research, we can unravel the complexities of urban contexts, identifying opportunities for transformative change and sustainable development. We are grateful to the Urban Studies Foundation (USF) for supporting research on Urban Livability in the Global South through gendered perspectives and encouraging early career researchers in the field of urban studies. We appreciate researchers and practitioners for presenting their work at the conference organized by the Department of Architecture and Planning, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal on ‘Calibrating Urban Livability in the Global South: Gendered Perspectives on Climate, Health, Governance and Policy’. This book presents a valuable resource to inform policy and practice for improving urban quality of life.
Evidence-inspired Urban Livability: Leveraging Indigenous and Vernacular Housing Practices for Total Sustainability
Conventional construction methods pose a significant threat to our overall sustainability. This has prompted a re-evaluation of the time-tested, sustainable techniques found in vernacular and indigenous building practices around the world. Sustainable housing, according to our criteria, embodies a holistic sustainability approach that encompasses four key facets: environmental, economic, social, and cultural, often referred to as the four pillars of sustainability. Acknowledging the inherent link between sustainability and livability, this study is premised on the idea of assimilating comprehensive sustainability practices from indigenous and vernacular traditions worldwide. Methodology: The objective of this evidence-based scoping review is to examine the impact of indigenous and vernacular architectures on urban livability through gaining inspiration from their total sustainability. A comprehensive search strategy aligned with the PRISMA statement was devised. Primary concepts and synonyms were identified for inclusivity. Boolean operators were used to combine keywords effectively. Subject headings were considered for relevant databases. Filters and limits were applied as necessary. Grey literature and manual searches were conducted for comprehensiveness. Inclusion criteria included peer-reviewed publications, conference proceedings, government reports, theses, and dissertations from January 2000 to present. The focus was on English language publications addressing sustainability features in vernacular and indigenous housing globally. Aspects like energy efficiency, local material utilization, cultural significance, adaptability, and resilience were considered. Grey literature, non-English publications, studies before January 2000, and region-specific studies were excluded. In data extraction and analysis duplicates were removed, initial screening by researchers DSF and SA was conducted based on titles and abstracts, MA organized data in MS Excel sheets, full-text manuscripts were obtained and evaluated for eligibility, extracted data was catalogued in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. The search based on the inclusion criteria yielded a total of 523 articles of which 26 were retained for final analysis and reviewing. The collection of selected studies, specifically examining their alignment with the principles of total sustainability, serves as a comprehensive exploration of diverse practices and ideas. In addition, the review discerns key technical and practical details related to the intricacies of contemporary urban life. Results: The indigenous methods identified demonstrated common sustainability traits, including adaptability to local climates, thermal comfort optimization, meticulous building orientation and design, use of indigenous materials and techniques, preservation of cultural identity, respect for vernacular heritage, promotion of social self-sufficiency, enhancement of visual connectivity, and the fostering of family and community gatherings. These practices epitomize key aspects of sustainability, such as recyclability, reusability, and renewability. The review identified key technical and practical details related to the intricacies of contemporary urban living, emphasizing the importance of understanding local context. The study explores the multifaceted nature of social sustainability in the context of indigenous and traditional architectures, providing valuable insights for promoting cohesive, culturally rich, and socially sustainable urban environments. Specifically, the study proposes a resilience framework and participatory approach for designing sustainable and resilient post-disaster housing solutions, highlighting the interlinkages between Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health and water. Review further examined the four aspects of total sustainability and highlighted the importance of natural ventilation, solar shading, and passive methods for climate control, recycling, energy efficiency, and use of locally available materials, contributing to a healthy urban environment. Additionally, studies have highlighted the importance of indigenous materials in building envelopes for thermal comfort and affordable housing, emphasizing local resources, for energy efficiency in urban settings. While highlighting its potential contribution to sustainable urban life, the review emphasizes the importance of climate-conscious designs, community engagement, and resource-efficient building methods. Vernacular Housing in Vietnam, Indigenous African Building Techniques, Passive Control Methods of Kerala Traditional Architecture, Traditional Buildings in Haiti, Vernacular Buildings in Portugal, Integration with Nature in Tribal Habitats, Sustainability and Cultural Growth in Madeira Island, Learning from Traditional Construction in Spain, and Sustainable Housing Design in Mardin, Turkey all emphasize the importance of climate-conscious designs, community engagement, and resource-efficient building methods. Policy Projection: Incorporating evidence-based policy recommendations bolsters the legitimacy of sustainability concepts and theories by anchoring them in tested and documented methodologies and outcomes. Although our study's recommendations are both precise and effective, their applicability can vary with geographical contexts, particularly concerning environmental sustainability. For the other three dimensions, our recommendations shift their focus towards aspects of daily life, including neighborhood social capital, family relationships, citizenship, trust in interpersonal connections, social inclusion, well-being, habitability, and family and community dynamics. The study advocates for collaboration between architects and engineers to develop reconstruction strategies based on local methods and resources, showcasing the significance of indigenous knowledge in building resilience. Moreover, the study suggests that these strategies can be applied in contemporary urban design to create environmentally friendly and comfortable living spaces. This comprehensive model underscores a synergistic relationship between evidence and practice, with the overarching goal of enhancing ecological health and indoor air quality within the built environment.
Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s). The licensee is the publisher (B P International).
Connecting Cities: Mass Transit Corridors Shaping Urban Form
As cities undergo continuous expansion, they tend to experience a dual phenomenon of urban growth. Firstly, their cores become denser as urbanization intensifies and secondly they sprawl outward beyond their planned capacities. This sprawling growth extends travel distances and increases the time spent in transit, consequently straining connectivity within the city, as well as increasing travel costs. As a result, cities often find themselves depleted of resources and fragmented into disconnected urban centers such as Guatemala with inadequate transportation options. This situation underscores the pressing need for a fundamental restructuring of urban areas, with a focus on "efficient transit-first policies" to strike a harmonious balance between transportation and quality of life. The implementation of mass transit systems emerges as a pivotal strategy to enhance connectivity and mitigate street traffic congestion, thus promoting the development of cities on a larger scale. Mass transit systems not only reinforce public transportation and commute facilities but also reduce dependence on personal vehicles, contributing to overall liveability and walkability along transit corridors and surrounding areas. The central focus of this paper is to understand the evolving phases of the urban form through proposed mass transit systems. This envisaged urban form is envisioned as a collection of neighbourhoods that are not only pedestrian-friendly and safe but also accessible to all residents. The overarching goal of this study is to unearth the intricate relationship between transit systems and the public realm, with a view to enhancing the quality of life, not only at the neighbourhood level but also at the city-wide scale. Transit-Oriented Development (T.O.D.)[1] plays a pivotal role in shaping urban form and influencing urban mobility. The study broadly aims to scrutinize the emergence of a new urban form and its impact on immediate neighbourhoods. This fresh urban form and built morphology hold the potential to facilitate diverse functions through mixed land use and the cultivation of various activities along the transit corridors.
Impact of Tourism on Quality of Life: A Case of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
The study examines the urban challenges faced by Shimla, a historic hill station in India, facing rapid population growth and tourism influx. Consequently, the city faces issues such as water scarcity and non-compliance with construction norms, despite which it was ranked as the most livable city among smaller urban centres in India in the 2020 Ease of Living Index. The study provides insights into the sustainability and resilience of Shimla's urban environment amidst evolving demographic and environmental pressures. The study attempts to investigate the impact of tourism on the Quality of Life (QoL) of residents in Shimla Municipal Corporation over the past two decades. A multidimensional approach is used combining indicators from three indices via expert interviews and a pilot survey. The data for the selected indicators was collected and analyzed through a mixed-method approach through household surveys and secondary data sources. Through a Difference-in-Impact analysis, it is discerned that residents near tourist spots experience a higher deterioration rate in QoL compared to those residing farther away. Issues affecting QoL include infrastructural issues such as lack of parking spaces, and traffic congestion, environmental issues such as soil erosion, landslides, air, water, light and noise pollution and social issues such as youth drug addiction. The study tries to understand how tourism impacts the resident’s QoL both positively and negatively. The study's findings have policy implications and are instrumental in plan formulation and informed decision-making to balance the relationship between the tourism sector and the Quality of life of Shimla city residents.
Evaluating Liveability by Mapping Usability for Passive and Active Green Spaces Enclosed within Gated Residential Communities
Green spaces have a significant influence on the built environment of urban residential areas, resulting in direct and indirect benefits and well-being of people, society, and the natural surroundings. Urban areas designate a greater percentage of land parcels for residential use in comparison to others. Consequently, residential communities are rapidly expanding in both gated and non-gated layouts. Green spaces are a crucial component of residential community development in accordance with planning regulations. Residential green spaces are the primary social areas in urban environments, offering a natural setting for everyday human interaction. Moreover, it accommodates persons belonging to diverse groups and genders. Consequently, this helps for sustainable lifestyles and improved livability conditions. By using strategic design, these small parks, often referred to as residential green spaces, provide the capacity to tackle ecological and social issues, while simultaneously enhancing the management of urban quality of life. Due to their modest size and scattered distribution, residential green spaces and tiny parks are given lesser importance in terms of open space compared to bigger regional parks and conservation areas, which are widely acknowledged and respected for their ecological and social benefits. This research seeks to investigate the comprehensive understanding of the passive and active characteristics of green spaces in Gated Residential communities. For this investigation, two fully occupied residential townships with diverse characteristics were selected. The objective of this research is to assess whether the existing criteria sufficiently address the most effective use of green spaces to enhance the quality of life.
Investigating the Influence of Leaf Area Index (LAI) Variations of Green Facade on Built Wall Performance: A Study Using Energy Balance Model
Increasing urbanization has indeed led to the deterioration of green spaces in cities, raising concerns about the environmental impact and quality of urban living. In response to these challenges, the concept of green façades has emerged as a promising solution, particularly in enhancing the energy efficiency of built structures and improved urban liveability alongside cost optimisation in tropical countries. This study aims to explore the thermal behaviour of opaque constructions when integrated with vegetation during high radiation phase, focusing on the geographical location of Delhi. The mathematical model proposed by Susorova is employed to investigate the impact of foliage and façade orientation on the inside surface temperature (Tin) of walls. The existing model cannot be used be for pre-installation analysis, thus the researcher has replaced the factor of outside surface temperature (To) with Sol-air temperature (Tsol-air) making it suitable through mathematical modelling for pre-installation analysis. The independent factors considered are leaf area index (LAI) and incoming radiation, as they significantly influence thermal performance. Specifically, the study reveals that the effect of LAI varies during direct and diffused radiation phases. For eastern and western façades, an LAI of 1 or 2 yields the most significant reduction in Tin during high radiation phases, whereas the northern façade benefits from an LAI of 4 due to its exposure to diffused radiation. The southern façade exhibits a similar pattern as western and eastern façades, but with minimal variation in temperature magnitude. Additionally, the study delves into the contribution of short-wave radiation, long-wave radiation, and convective heat/gain in the heat balance equation, studying their influence with varying LAI. The findings of this research provide valuable insights for designing green façades on vertical structures in similar climatic conditions to optimize passive cooling and overall energy efficiency, thereby enhancing urban liveability in densely populated areas.
Citizen Participation in Shaping Urban form in India
This research paper aims to understand the effect of Citizen Participation on the Planning process and its impact on the Urban Form of the city, specific to the context of Indian Cities. Citizen Participation means allowing people to be involved in the planning and development of the city and shaping their urban environment. Participatory Urban Planning directly engages the citizens in policy-making or planning decisions, where citizens act as experts and stakeholders that complement the technical know-how of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The paper talks about the existing provisions made in the Indian governance system for citizen participation, like those made under the 74th Constitutional Amendment, in the URDPFI and the RADPFI Guidelines, the Community Participation Law, and a brief discussion about Participatory Planning as an SDG Goal. Through a questionnaire survey and testimonial, this paper also discusses the people’s perception of participatory planning. Since the effects of Participatory planning can be seen at different scales, hence, two broader scales, i.e., the Master Plan or Development Plan Scale and the Neighborhood scale, have been taken for this research. Gendered notions of people’s participation have also been discussed. Understanding the stages at which citizens must participate in the planning process and the extent of their involvement has also been one of the objectives of this paper. In conclusion, this research paper aims to give an overview of how Citizen Participation can affect the Urban Form of a city in different ways and different scales through various degrees of involvement. The research can further be used to design Participatory planning toolkits to empower the role of citizens in the Urban Planning process.
Evaluating a Placemaking Approach for Public Space Regeneration
Placemaking is a concept and a strategy for increasing a location's comfort, safety, and beauty so that people may enjoy their social lives. People are drawn to placemaking because it creates a feeling of place with varied emotional or aesthetic values. In contrast, the chaotic and uncontrolled growth of historic cities into modern metropolis makes the scenario unsustainable. By adopting the mechanism of placemaking we can explore the different place-making approaches to the cities, to restore and preserve the charter of place. This paper is an attempt understand the different approaches of placemaking with case studies that are equipped with better solutions. The investigation is sought to identify the obstacles to a desirable public area. To comprehend the significance of public places, a brief examination of their historical past was conducted. A study of the components and concepts that transform a common public space into a spectacular public space. Case studies on Western public spaces and Indian public spaces have been conducted to investigate the problematic and good aspects of public spaces, as well as the many variables that contribute to them.
Impact of Urban Development on Avian Diversity in Mangalavanam, Kochi
This research paper investigates the repercussions of urban development on avian biodiversity within the Mangalavanam Feathered creature Haven found in Kochi, India. The think-about points to get it the relationship between the development of new buildings and the waning populace of feathered creatures within the haven. The inquiry highlights the noteworthy decrease in winged creature species abundance and wealth as a result of expanded urbanization. The discoveries emphasize the critical requirement for feasible urban arranging and preservation endeavors to moderate the advanced misfortune of avian differing qualities in this environmentally pivotal living space.
Improving Gender-Inclusive Urban Public Spaces: Focusing on Women’s Safety Parameters and Policy Frameworks
The rapid urbanization demands a reimagining of urban spaces, emphasizing inclusivity and safety for all genders. This study delves into the realm of gender-inclusive urban public spaces, with a specific focus on ensuring women's safety. In urban landscapes filled with parks, streets and buildings, the study questions the comfort and inclusivity of these spaces for individuals regardless of their gender identity. Historically, urban planning skewed towards a male perspective, overlooking the diverse needs of women and other gender groups. In the context of improving gender-inclusive urban public spaces and prioritizing women safety, the study raises pivotal questions about the parameters contributing to safe urban public spaces for women and examines the extent to which current urban policies incorporate gender-inclusive principles. The study's objectives encompass analyzing essential elements shaping safe urban spaces, evaluating existing policies and identifying implementation gaps and studying international and national case studies to assess effective strategies. While the study concentrates on women's safety within the gender inclusivity framework, it acknowledges the complexity of gender dynamics, emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive approach. Scope of the study is focused on women’s safety within the domain of gender inclusivity in urban public spaces, thereby contributing to the ongoing discourse and endeavor to foster cities.
The Impact of Transit Oriented Development on the Public Realm and Accessibility: A Case of Gurugram
Transit-oriented development (TOD) is a type of urban advancement that encourages the use of residential, commercial, and recreational space within walking distance of public transit. It fosters a symbiotic relationship between dense and compact urban form to facilitate public transport access. This study aims to understand a framework established by world bank known as the “three values” (3V) of transit stations: node value, place value, and land value, including transit connectivity, centrality, quality of the built environment, safety and security, type of urban fabric, land use, and its potential, to determine how the public realm around metro stations differs from each other. TOD transforms transit stations and stops into vibrant community hubs. Placemaking further enhances their role as focal points, expanding their use for public purposes, which adds value to neighborhoods, boosts commercial districts, and connects businesses with commuters and customers. The purpose of this exercise is to evaluate the existing condition and accessibility of the metro stations along the transit network based on the TOD guiding and supporting principles. The focus is on three different metro stations (Sikanderpur, Millennium City Center, and Cyber City). This tool builds on the National TOD Guidance Document of India using six guiding principles and three supporting principles. Proximity to business districts, commercial centers, and other economic transit-oriented development (TOD) can have a significant impact on the public realm around commercial areas, creating a more vibrant, accessible, safe, and sustainable urban environment. The findings can also be used to integrate TOD guidelines and implement missing parameters in transit stations, resulting in better public space.
Post Implementation Assessment of Social and Environmental Effects of Metro Projects: A Case of Mumbai Metro Line 1
Rapidly increasing urbanization and the need for faster transportation, combined with the limited land supply, necessitates the provision of Mass Rapid Transit Systems like metro projects. These projects have Environmental Impact Assessments and Social Impact Assessments conducted for them and their mitigation plans are in place. There is a need to assess the effectiveness of these mitigation plans and check for other effects post-implementation. This study takes into consideration the Mumbai Metro One and the effects that it has had on the population in its immediate surrounding as well as the city in terms of environmental and social factors. This is done by collecting relevant data through primary surveys, reports and geo-spatial mapping and analyzing it to understand the benefits and issues of the observed due to this project. The gathered data for this study has led to the inference that while benefits are observed on a macro level, on a neighborhood level multiple issues such as traffic congestions and increase in air and noise pollution have been experienced. The study concludes with putting forth a model framework to assess post implementation effects of metro projects that is easy to use and gives recommendations based on the issues observed in this case. This model framework presented in the study shall enable a concise evaluation of both social and environmental effects of a large project and provide a versatile tool for assessment and analysis.
Female Street Vendor’s Perspective for Their Recognition and Financial Inclusion
The informal sector is the primary driver of the Global South economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and employing a substantial number of its workforce. As a result, it plays a crucial role in a nation's development strategies. Street vending is vital in the informal sector, creating self-employment opportunities for individuals with poor skills and limited financial security. There is a prevailing trend where men dominate the workforce, and women are marginalized, resulting in a lack of significant female participation in street vending. This paper examines the constraints women street vendors encounter within the existing regulatory and governance frameworks in Indian cities. It also explores the strategies they employ to overcome these obstacles. Discrimination and gender stereotypes exacerbate the difficulties faced by women, hence compounding the hurdles they encounter. This study aims to enhance comprehension of the overarching challenges female street vendors face in their commercial operations, examine the extensive gender gaps that hinder women's economic participation, and explore the impact of these obstacles on entrepreneurial pursuits. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken to get insight into their commercial activities. The respondents for these interviews were derived through a stratified random sampling method to ensure that the representation of all forms of female vendors based on their offering of goods and services is reflected. This study emphasizes examining the existing laws and governance systems to identify and tackle the obstacles female street vendors face in Indian cities due to gender. To effectively address the complex barriers female sellers face in Indian urban areas, policymakers must comprehend these issues to devise tailored strategies that promote women's economic empowerment and its contribution to the GDP. The study has led to the discovery of the lack of legislative and policy awareness among female street vendors, keeping them away from its benefits; almost one in three women vendors faced some form of harassment from customers and fellow commuters, mainly those who are vending late in the evening raising safety concerns, women vendors though holders of bank accounts have a low tendency to secure credit to expand business leading to a partial form of financial inclusion, according to the respondent's majority of them are independent decision makers of their income utilization, abuse from local authorities is infrequent, vendors utilize their built social capital among each other to support but instances of dictating vending space rights by male vendors upon women vendors is also present, the research findings chapter discusses these insights and others in depth.
Lost Horizons: The Unseen Consequences of Urbanization on Bengaluru’s Lakes
Once known for its many lakes, Bengaluru's rapid urbanization has led to puzzling phenomena such as the loss and disappearance of aquatic life. This case study explores the alarming disappearance of lakes from the city, which is largely linked to rampant urban growth and inadequate environmental protection. In the past, Bengaluru was known for its vast network of lakes, which were essential for maintaining the natural balance. and to provide water for local residents and wildlife. But relentless urbanization, lakebed encroachment, pollution and uncontrolled development are slowly but surely leading to the loss of these vital waterways. The impact of this loss is far-reaching, exacerbating the region's water scarcity problems while affecting the local ecosystem. The city's water supply may not be sustainable in the long term, as shrinking lakes contribute to reduce the groundwater recharge, which affects the total amount of groundwater. A comprehensive strategy involving urban planning, government action and community engagement is needed. solve this problem. The case study explores revitalization options, community-led projects and strict land use laws as tools to preserve and enhance Bengaluru's lakes. Immediate action is needed to halt this trend and ensure the conservation of these vital natural resources for the benefit of the city's residents and the environment.
Integrating the Triple Bottom Line Framework for Wetland Management and Urban Livability: A Case of Upper Lake Bhopal, India
Wetlands provide vital ecosystem services and biodiversity yet face threats from rapid urban expansion and population growth. The Bhoj Wetland of Upper Lake Bhopal, India, grapples with unplanned urban growth, encroachment, and pollution, jeopardizing its diverse ecosystem and community resilience. Employing the Triple Bottom Line framework, this study evaluates the interconnected sustainability of the Upper Lake wetland and urban livability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Analyzing secondary data and Geographic Information Systems, it examines wetland-livability linkages and the impacts of issues like invasive species, waste discharge, and unsustainable practices. Findings highlight sustainable wetland management's significance in maintaining ecosystem services, mitigating urbanization effects, and securing wetland benefits for present and future generations. The study emphasizes integrated conservation efforts, community involvement, and policy initiatives as critical for preserving urban wetlands. By underscoring the urgency of a triple bottom line approach balancing ecological integrity, societal well-being, and economic viability, this research provides a framework for sustainable urban planning and development, guiding cities globally in preserving wetland ecosystems for a resilient future.
Measuring the Relationship between Urban Environment and Wellness of Residents
This paper analyzes the intricate relationship between the urban environment and resident wellness of a neighborhood in Bhopal, India. The study employed a mixed methods approach, including an expert opinion survey, structured interviews with area representatives, and a user survey of residents of Arera Colony. Both primary and secondary data sources are leveraged to illustrate the impact of the built environment on residents' wellness. Primary data was collected through surveys assessing 70 residents' wellness and interviews with 20 area representatives through a comprehensive literature review, the study identified 13 parameters such as housing, healthcare access, transportation infrastructure, community resources, green spaces, air and noise quality, safety and security, and incorporation of healthy urban design principles. Barriers faced by residents in accessing the services and resources that impact resident’s wellness were identified. The findings indicate that the case area faces emerging concerns regarding rapid commercialization and increased congestion in the area. This study delivers valuable insights into the relationship between the urban environment and the wellness of residents. The findings can help in urban planning and policy decisions to create a healthier, more livable community in this neighborhood and similar contexts.
Population Based Accessibility Provision for Social Infrastructure: A Case of Regional Education Facility for Dwarka, Gujarat
Dwarka is a coastal city in the Indian state of Gujarat. Urban planning for Dwarka would also consist of planning for social infrastructure, as the city and its population grow over the years. Planning for social infrastructure is a crucial aspect of urban planning practice, especially in the global South, where cities are dealing with rapid urbanization and growing population, whereas the city dwellers tackle obstacles like inequitable access to social infrastructure. Social Infrastructure facilities in the Dwarka are not sufficient for the projected population, as per the URDPFI 2014 Guidelines, according to a recent survey conducted by M. Plan (2022–2024), Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology. The entire district of Devbhumi Dwarka has only four higher education facilities, and none among them is a technical institute. The aim of the study is to propose a location for a higher-education technical institute in the district which has equitable access based on population size and area of influence from all the 4 Talukas which constitute the district. Feasibility Analysis for a college was done based on the projected population and the percentage of college going population of Gujarat. ‘Point of Indifference’ analysis was done using 'Reilly's law of retail gravitation' and QGIS was employed to make spatial representation of the gravitational model of accessibility of infrastructure provision. The result was a proposal for a technical college in the district, whose location would ensure equitable access for people in the district, which is a crucial step in making education physically accessible for overall human development.
Impact of Sky View Factor on Outdoor Thermal Comfort
Cities are vulnerable to temperature changes due to the inappropriate urbanization process causing Urban Heat Island effect, which exacerbates the instability of the thermal environment and the risk of human heat exposure. The 2021 IPCC Sixth Assessment Report indicates a 1.09°C rise in global average temperature from 2011 to 2020, along with increased frequency and intensity of extreme heat events. Higher Sky View Factors (SVFs) amplify the reflections of short-wave and long-wave radiations, creating uncomfortable outdoor thermal environment, crucial in Urban Morphology and Climatology. Therefore, this research aims to examine the effect of SVF on Thermal Comfort in a warm-humid Climate of India. Varying ranges of SVFs in residential neighbourhoods (0.868, 0.807, 0.693, 0.648, 0.523 and 0.372) were selected for this study as per the local bye-laws and its impact on thermal comfort were analyzed using RayMan Tool and ENVI-met software. The study found least R2 value for SVF of 0.868, followed by SVF of 0.807 with R2 of 0.63, and SVFs of 0.693, 0.648, 0.523 and 0.372 were statistically significant. Amongst all the selected SVFs, the SVF of 0.523 has the most significant corelation with R2 of 0.953. The results show that SVF ranged between 0.693 and 0.372 had a strong impact on PET (Physiologically Equivalent Temperature) and MRT (mean radiant temperature) values highlighting the significance of SVF in determining comfort conditions. This results of this research can aid architects and planners in creating a climate-resilient design by optimizing urban morphology in enhancing thermal comfort in cities.
Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for a Himalayan Hill Town: The Case of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
The Himalayas are one of the most rapidly urbanizing mountain ecosystems worldwide. Despite being sensitive ecosystems, they have witnessed developments, particularly in the past two decades, that have disregarded this sensitivity when designing and planning for these environments. Climate change, a global phenomenon, is affecting sensitive ecosystems worse. Quite naturally, it also affects the well-being of the inhabitants of these ecosystems. These concerns can be grouped into ecological, morphological, heritage, tourism, and economic. Ecological concerns include construction that disregards the terrain of the natural landscape - development in ecologically sensitive zones, and destruction of the green cover and scenic beauty. These alterations to the natural landscape, in turn, aggravate the impact of disasters. Morphologically, these towns are facing increasing pressure on their indigenous systems, which are also being altered and, in some cases, wholly disregarded to grapple with the newer demands that urbanization and tourism, a significant generator of the economy, are creating. When disasters hit, resilience across genders is also seen differently. Women are often among mountain communities' vulnerable group to witness climate change's impact for reasons such as limited access to information, decision-making powers, and adaptive capacity. Climate change has been associated with heavy rainfall, delayed rain and snowfall, flash floods, and even landslides. This paper explores the strengthening of resilience in the case of a climate-induced disaster and urban flooding in the Hill Town of Mandi. It explores human and natural methods that can help strengthen the resilience of these settlements towards climate change particularly in the case of eco-sensitive Himalayan settlements that are grappling with high seismicity risks, landslides, urban flooding, forces of tourism all at once.
Challenges in Restoration of Livelihood Faced by Project-Affected Persons
Development is the indicator of progress and growth, in the physical, economic, environmental, social and demographic components, which is achieved by procurement of land for the establishment of these projects. The process of land acquisition leads to the displacement of the native population, which results in the Resettlement and Rehabilitation (R&R) of the affected people. While the main aim of these projects is to target economic efficiency and enhance the livability of an urban area, the plight of project-affected people is not catered to efficiently. In recent years R&R for project-affected persons has been a vital and sensitive issue that dwells impoverishment risks like loss of livelihood, homelessness, destruction of social cohesion etc. The paper aims to study the impact on the livability of project-affected persons, post-implementation of infrastructure projects. The focus of the research relies on case examples from the global south, that cater to the livelihood restoration for project-affected populations and the cause and effect of the approaches practiced to formulate the framework. To achieve the desired objectives, a qualitative research approach was used to analyze the case example of Yamuna-Expressway Way in Uttar Pradesh. Under this project, approximately 5000 hectares of land has been acquired, for which the compensatory framework did not pan out as the asset value depleted. Due to this the project-affected people (PAP) were compelled to use the monetary compensation to incur better livelihood opportunities. The study concludes by identifying a gap in the implementation of the Livelihood Restoration Plan (LRP) for project-affected people and formulation of a conceptual framework for LRP. LRP is essential for sustainable economic planning and an important indicator of successful rehabilitation and resettlement action plans.
The Significance of Unique Visual Elements as Identities: Facilitating Effective Wayfinding
Wayfinding it is a simple cognitive process of the human brain which enables the person to navigate their surroundings through unique visual clues that is the place identity. It is a legible mental map that gives the user an important sense of emotional security. Therefore wayfinding is a dynamic concept that continually adapts to understand and interact with the environment in which the user navigates. Due to the fast pace of development to meet the ever growing demands of the urban population over the globe, be it developed or developing, the cities are growing exponentially resulting in overshowing the local landmarks, hence losing its uniqueness and so affecting the wayfinding process. In a culturally diverse country like India, each location possesses a unique identity, with distinct characteristics emerging every 100 kilometres. The rapid pace of urbanization often blurs the natural and man-made landmarks that serve as crucial visual cues, functioning as an information system for navigation and enriching the unique experience within complex urban environments. This paper places a strong emphasis on the identification, mapping and safeguarding of visual elements as pivotal identities for effective wayfinding in a specific location. Utilizing case studies as valuable tools, the paper examines these unique visual elements; the identities, that act as markers in the wayfinding process. The applied methodology aims to establish a set of guidelines for evaluating both tangible and intangible visual components within a place. In conclusion, the paper underscores the significance of preserving and refurbishing these essential visual cues, as they are indispensable for facilitating effective wayfinding within a given area.
Quantifying the Disparity in Vehicular Carbon Emissions and Sequestration Capacity in Urban Environments via E-cognition and Primary Data Analysis: A Case Study of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
India is now the 3rd largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, with around 7.3% share of its name, with many of these gases originating in urban areas. Urbanization has led to the overtake of open and green spaces by road networks and built-up areas which have resulted in the elevation of many climate threats like urban heat islands and severe impacts on urban livability. Policies on mitigating the carbon footprint of big cities are being developed, and one of the measures is promoting urban parks and greenery to offset net greenhouse gas emissions. Studies show that urban greenery can work as a carbon reservoir and enhance the livability index of urban areas, but support for such claims and their efficacy is still lacking. This study is devised to check the efficiency and potential of green spaces, urban parks and trees in sequestering CO2 directly from the atmosphere and removing other pollutants present in an urban environment. Taking a zoned-out area demarcating some wards for Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, with variable traffic volume and different green cover, as a case, the authors integrated various methods to estimate carbon emissions, their impact, and sequestration. This study involves the use of E-cognition for object recognition using high-resolution satellite imagery. The methodology will involve various analyses initiating from traffic volume survey for vehicular carbon emissions analysis, followed by, the calculation of carbon sequestration based on object recognition and conduction of physical surveys to identify the biomass and various species of trees present. This study focuses on the gap analysis between the vehicular carbon emissions and carbon sequestration capability of the trees. Furthermore, understanding how urban greenery helps reduce emissions and its effects while elevating the social and ecological environment of urban spaces further elevating urban livability. The study's findings can also guide policymakers and stakeholders in implementing effective carbon-offset strategies through parks and urban afforestation. Furthermore, studies can be done to reduce carbon emissions and urban heat island formation on road networks, by making them more manageable.
Improvements in Governance through Smart City Mission: Case Study Bhopal
The research study focuses on evaluating the Integrated Control and Command Center (ICCC) within the context of the Smart Cities Mission in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, with the primary objective of assessing its contribution to improving the quality of public service. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11, the study aims to understand the influence of information and communication technology (ICT) in improving governance in Bhopal. The study places a significant emphasis on governance and citizen participation, recognizing that urban success extends beyond technological advancements. It seeks to unveil the depth of the ICCC's contribution to these crucial aspects, providing policymakers with practical insights necessary for refining smart city initiatives to authentically address citizen needs. The research is indispensable for assessing the tangible benefits of the ICCC, aligning them with citizens' expectations, and promoting a more responsive, citizen-centric approach to urban development. The data collection involves a mixed-method approach, combining surveying city residents and extracting information from existing databases, reports, and direct observations. The study focuses on two primary indicators: governance and citizen satisfaction. Initially, projects encompassed by the ICCC are identified and categorized into four pillars of good governance: Accountability, Participation, Rule of Law, and Transparency. Subsequently, citizen satisfaction is evaluated within these pillars, providing a structured analysis that delves into both the organizational governance aspects and the perception of citizens regarding the services facilitated by the ICCC. The paper not only adds depth to the understanding of the Smart Cities Mission but also serves as a valuable resource for policymakers and stakeholders involved in urban development initiatives.
Socio-Spatial Patterns: A Gendered Perspective on the Organic Settlement of Shahjahanabad, Delhi
India beholds an intricate interplay of diverse cultures, communities, and heritage, which has given rise to unique urban forms shaped by the country’s distinctive regional identities. A prime example of this evolution of a distinctive urban character is the historic city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi. Endowed with hundreds of years of history and summed with the organic pattern, it gives rise to unique urban spaces based on social roles and power structures. Gender is one such distinction, as it influences one's everyday life, but it still lacks discussion. Thus, the study aims to unravel the complex dynamics that have shaped the spatial organization of the city over time. Focusing on gendered perspectives, it examines how societal norms influenced the layout and functions of various spaces within the settlement. From bustling markets and religious sites to intimate domestic spaces, the research investigates the roles and interactions of men and women, providing insights into the lived experiences of the community. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach. Through primary surveys, including interviews, observational illustrations, and morphological mapping, alongside methods of identifying blocks in the neighborhood and through secondary research, the paper seeks to present a comprehensive picture of the socio-spatial patterns that have defined the old part of the city. Ultimately, the old urban forms were identified as enabling instead of restricting components in the gender-sensitive urban design. Shedding light on the nuanced interplay of tradition, culture, and the ever-changing nature of the settlement.
Considering the Gender Perspective for the Concept of Smart Housing
In the realm of smart housing, the convergence of gender inclusivity and technological advancements demands wide-scale research work. This study examines gender-based participation in shaping indicators for smart housing targeting the Indian context. With a focus on home automation, energy efficiency, security, service management, and resource management, the research unveils distinct contributions from diverse genders. Utilizing a robust survey analysis methodology, the study indicates the gendered preferences and priorities across regions and genders, shedding light on the dynamics influencing attitudes towards smart housing hence, comparing two cities: Agra and Bhopal. Security and monitoring take precedence in Agra, securing 36.68% of votes, while Bhopal emphasizes energy efficiency with a leading 40%. Delving deeper into gender-specific perspectives within each city, the findings reveal the multifaceted priorities of residents. In the end, a comprehensive list of indicators for gender-inclusive smart housing is formed. Recommendations in the discussion section aim to empower policymakers and planners with practical insights. Focusing on solutions towards equitable and responsive futures, resonating with the diverse needs across genders in India.
Evaluation of Integrated Heat Wave Vulnerability Parameters in Indian Context
A heat wave is a disaster that has started to become a concern due to its increase in frequency and heat waves that last longer and are more powerful are occurring more frequently worldwide. India is also seeing the effects of climate change in the form of an increase in the frequency of heat waves, which are becoming more extreme and have a catastrophic effect. Like other calamities, the severity of a high heat event relies on how vulnerable the population is. Thus, it is essential to understand the parameters and factors that help mitigate such a calamity and prevent it from becoming a disaster leading to loss of life. The paper tries to understand the factors which affect the heat wave vulnerability of a place thus coming up with an integrated parameters for assessment of the heat wave vulnerability. Thus, after analyzing various literature and parameters which are used, the paper concludes that the data can be categorized into 19 parameters under Exposure, 11 parameters under Sensitivity and 9 characteristics under Adaptive Capacity which can be utilized for the evaluation of Integrated Heat wave Vulnerability Index parameters in Indian Context.
Analysing Gender Dynamics of the Carbon Credit Aggregator Business Model: A Case Study of Indore Smart City's Sustainable Carbon Trading Practices
This research study delves into the intricate nexus of waste management, carbon trading mechanisms, climate-resilient urban design, and gender dynamics within Indore City’s carbon credit aggregator model. The Swachh Bharat mission has achieved remarkable success in transforming the mindset of Indian citizens and fostering positive behavioural changes. Focused on Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the research explores how the city's sustainable carbon trading practices contribute to environmental responsibility. The study emphasizes the impact of the carbon credit aggregator model on climate-resilient practices in reducing carbon emissions. Through a gendered lens, the aim is to explore the unique challenges faced by women in the waste management sector, ensuring an inclusive evaluation of the initiative. The study conducted in Indore City aimed to evaluate women’s contributions to achieving the goals of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. It assessed their awareness levels and proposed policies promoting women’s leadership and involvement in decision-making. To gauge the potential of the model, the study further analyses the model through environmental, social, economic, and governance viewpoints. This analysis further paves the way for replicating this model in other municipal corporations, fostering sustainable development at the urban level.
Mapping Women's Safety and Walkability: Insights from Bibliometric Analysis
Women safety in urban spaces is of paramount importance as it helps to prevent violences, insecurities, gender differences in the public spaces. Ensuring women safety can enhance women inclusiveness in urban areas and helps them to enjoy the city life in its full dimension as men do. In order to enhance women safety through means of making urban life safer and more comfortable for women, first step would be through creating urban spaces where women can walk freely. The aim of this paper is to incorporate a bibliometric analysis of publications retrieved from Scopus database, that discusses women and walkability and analyse the research trends in this field. To achieve this, VOS viewer is used, which made it possible to identify major trends and clusters that visually present the obtained information. The analysis is achieved under three parameters; co-authorship, co-occurrence and co-citation. Based on the analysis, walkability is becoming more and more important in the context of women's safety, and there is a trend towards increased association between walkability and improved women's safety. The analysis of research trends and future direction can be helpful in shaping policies for women’s walkability and also pointing researchers in important directions for research which helps to develop safer and more inclusive walkability for women.
Unidentified Built- Heritage of Historic Siddhapur (Sehore), Madhya Pradesh, India
Sehore, the administrative center of Sehore district in Madhya Pradesh, is situated at the foothills of Vindhyachal ranges on the eastern part of the Malwa plateau. Rich in historical significance, Sehore witnessed its peak during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a pivotal hub for trade, religion, and military affairs. Siddhapur, historically a seat for Saiva, Shakti, Vaisnava, and Jain priests for over 2000 years, gained prominence under the Marathas of Peshwas in the early 18th century, flourishing as a center for art, literature, and education. The town played a crucial role during the Revolt of 1857 and hosted India's first war of independence in 1824. The architectural heritage of Sehore holds substantial cultural value, reflecting diverse historical layers. Examining the town's expanding nature and the subsequent loss of historicity, the research goals address the lack of organization in Sehore's development, which has led to the deterioration of existing heritage structures. The town's rapid expansion necessitates urgent planning, with heritage resources forming a critical aspect. Identifying, listing, and documenting the built heritage is crucial for safeguarding the historical and cultural legacy of the town, ensuring its future development and preservation. The purpose of the research is to physically survey the town's built heritage, map it, and evaluate its architectural style. This approach aims to provide a thorough grasp of the anthropological, historical, and geographical elements that characterize the Sehore's setting in order to serve as the foundation for a management and conservation strategy.
Adaptation to Climate Change Urban Heat Island Effect and Its Challenges in Urban Settlement
Climate change is a big problem for cities around the world, and it's getting worse. Even though we're trying to stop it, some changes are already happening and will continue. Cities are especially at risk from things like more rain, bigger storms, floods, and very hot temperatures, which can make city life difficult. We need to start preparing our cities to handle these challenges better. Nature has been balancing itself for billions of years, but since the Industrial Revolution, we've been throwing off this balance. Now, with more heatwaves that can make people very sick, we have to change how we live and use our spaces to deal with climate change. Yet, amidst these challenges, there lies a solution embedded in the realm of data-informed policies. Cities can mitigate the urban heat island effect, enhance livability, and promote walkability. A spectrum of strategies is being embraced by forward-thinking cities, from expanding green spaces and integrating urban vegetation to counteracting the urban heat island effect, to championing the use of reflective and permeable surfaces. Sustainable urban planning aims to address immediate concerns and enhance climate resilience, creating comfortable and sustainable environments for residents. India's urban transformation is crucial for climate mitigation and adaptation, with a significant portion still awaiting development, presenting a unique opportunity to establish low-carbon, resilient, and equitable structures. The paper discusses India's sustainable urban future, emphasizing low-carbon initiatives, climate resilience, and equity in planning, while addressing the increasing UHI impacting public comfort.
Advancing Gender Inclusive Tourism Planning: Infrastructure Improvements, Safety Measures, and Sector-wide Advocacy
Tourism is a cornerstone of many economies worldwide, contributing significantly to economic growth and cultural exchange. However, the tourism industry has not been equitable, often leaving gender-excluded and diverse individuals marginalized and vulnerable. The Travel and Tourism Development Index (TTDI) framework has 17 different parameters. The World Economic Forum has ranked countries based on TTDI and had India rank 54 out of 117 countries in 2021. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been assessing India's safety status for four years through its rankings of the world's safest countries. In 2022, India ranked 37th for safety among the 42 most popular countries for travellers. These figures underscore the need for gender-inclusive tourism planning, infrastructure improvements, and addressing safety concerns, to address the multifaceted challenges faced by women and gender-diverse individuals while fostering their meaningful participation in the tourism sector. Studies show women outlive men by an average of 5.2 years, and hence they comprise a greater share of older persons in the world’s population. In 2023, women accounted for 55.7 percent of individuals aged 65 and above. So, it is necessary to address gender-inclusive planning with a focus on all age groups. The 2018 impact report by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) highlights the potential to generate up to 10 million jobs within the tourism sector by 2028, forecasting a rise from 42.9 million in 2018 to 52.3 million by 2028. Considering this potential and the forthcoming opportunities for employment generation, the paper emphasizes the importance of integrating a gender perspective and gender mainstreaming in India's tourism industry. This approach also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals of Gender Equality (Goal 5) and Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8). The major gaps identified in the tourism industry, such as the collection of gender-disaggregated data, lack of human resources, and inadequate gender-inclusive infrastructure, also needed to be addressed. Therefore, this paper aims to present the imperative of gender-inclusive tourism planning as a fundamental drive for sustainable and responsible tourism development in India. It also advocates for research in policy development and practical implementation of gender-inclusive tourism planning, emphasizing the need for collaboration between governments, the tourism industry, stakeholders, and local communities to create a tourism sector that is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for all.
Appropriate Housing Project Delivery Methods Using AHP
In the pursuit of identifying the most effective approach for housing project delivery, a meticulously crafted model leveraging the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) has been developed. This model serves as a crucial tool for systematically evaluating and ranking various housing delivery methods based on critical variables pivotal to the selection process. Recognizing the pivotal role in determining overall project success, project owners are keen to adopt an approach aligning seamlessly with their unique project requirements. The urgency in method selection is underscored by factors like cost, efficiency, and stakeholder satisfaction. Addressing this need, this paper introduces an approachable model empowering project owners to make informed decisions by incorporating all relevant considerations. Underpinned by the intuitive AHP methodology, the model ensures accessibility for a broad spectrum of stakeholders. By providing a structured framework that systematically weighs diverse variables, the model enhances decision-making and contributes to project success. The integration of AHP adds sophistication to decision-making, ensuring the selected delivery method aligns with project priorities, offering a comprehensive solution to a complex challenge.
Exploring the Increased Health Issues Due to Lack of Living Spaces among Homeless Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) in Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR)
Introduction: Injection drug use and homelessness are two significant intertwined public health problems. There is a need to understand the healthcare and social well-being needs of homeless Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) in the urbanized world. This study aims to explore the living conditions, assess the usability of the public services, and understand their needs in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) for holistic health care and wellbeing. Methods: A rigorous literature review was conducted to understand the existing evidence and frame a semi-structured questionnaire in consultation with community representatives. In-depth interviews (n=12) were conducted among IDUs in Delhi and NCR. The participants were recruited through snowball sampling. The interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis was conducted. Results: There is an absence of data on homeless IDUs residing in shelter homes in Delhi/NCR. The limited access to shelter compels homeless IDUs to sleep in filthy conditions, increasing their risk of infectious diseases. The participants reported seeking overnight shelter but complained about ill sleeping conditions leading to water-borne, water-washed, and water-based diseases, musculoskeletal conditions, infections due to pest infestation, and parasitic bites. The financial constraints further limited the access to essential and other healthcare services, forcing them to travel long distances to scattered facilities that often provide inadequate care. The continued harassment from security personnel and exclusion from government social welfare schemes owing to documentation concerns results in limited access and usability of services. Conclusion: The living conditions of homeless IDUs significantly enhance their health risks. Inefficient services and a disregard for their actual needs further limit their ability to seek proper care. There is a need to develop public health interventions to provide holistic healthcare and well-being services to this population.
Bridging the Gap: Evaluating the Generalizability of Simulated Data for Urban Feature Classification Using Deep Learning
In this research, we present a comprehensive analysis of urban feature classification using Deep Learning (DL), with a focus on the performance of simulated data. We construct a detailed 3D model of the IISER Bhopal campus, from which synthetic data is generated, and compare it against real-world data captured using a 360-degree view camera for capturing the hierarchical information in the images used for image segmentation. The OCRNet segmentation architecture is applied to both datasets, with hyperparameter tuning to optimize performance. Our experiments assess the efficacy of simulated data in feature extraction and the model's generalizability when trained on synthetic data and tested on real-world scenarios. We discuss the model's performance, highlighting the classes where it fails to generalize, and analyze the potential causes, such as lighting, textures, and contrast. We also explore the impact of data augmentation strategies to reduce bias and domain gaps, evaluating the extent to which these adjustments facilitate adaptation to real data. We achieved 85.39% MIoU on 30% augmented data. Our findings contribute to understanding the distribution gap's impact on model adaptation and generalization across complex outdoor datasets. This study not only advances the field of computer vision but also provides insights into the potential and limitations of using simulated data for DL applications in urban feature classification.
Enhancing Public Open Spaces: Exploring the Interplay of Perception, Safety and Security
Public open spaces in urban environments play a pivotal role in enhancing community well-being and fostering a sense of connection among residents. These spaces, ranging from parks and plazas to community gardens and recreational areas, serve as essential components of the urban fabric. The significance of public open spaces lies in their multifaceted contributions to physical, mental, and social aspects of urban life. However, as urban populations continue to grow, the design and planning of urban spaces play a crucial role in shaping the overall well-being of residents. This study investigates the relationship between urban form, perceptions of safety and security, and their subsequent influence on the utilization of public open spaces. It aims to understand how these perceptions can be enhanced to foster a more inclusive, accessible, and appealing environment for a diverse range of users. The research employs a multi-dimensional approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Interviews, surveys, and observational analysis collect data on individuals' perceptions, experiences, and usage patterns within public open spaces. The study explores factors contributing to perceived safety and security, such as lighting, maintenance, surveillance, social dynamics, and design elements. Moreover, this research investigates strategies to improve perceptions of safety and security in public open spaces. It explores potential interventions, including urban design modifications, community engagement initiatives, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts among stakeholders. By identifying effective approaches to enhance these perceptions, this study provides valuable insights to create inviting, safe, and secure public open spaces that encourage active participation and improve overall urban livability.
Comparison of Residents’ Preferences to Liveability Parameters in Different Morphologically Dense Urban Areas
Livability is a widely used term in urban environments, but there is no general consensus on precisely defining it. Literature of ‘livability’ suggests a lack of an established assessment framework or a uniform definition; hence, the term can be understood and applied in many ways. Livability is a subjective notion and often linked to various factors such as quality of life, availability of educational and medical facilities, sense of safety, access to infrastructure and basic services, cost and comfort of living, ease of mobility and transit facilities, air quality, and social cohesion. Thus, perception of livability is often seen to be dependent upon how well the built environment caters to the residents’ fundamental needs. The results of various case-based studies carried out in the morphologically dense urban areas, emphasize that this built environment is highly influential to perceived livability. The paper outlines various perspectives of livability and parameters based on literature that are considered for assessing livability at various spatial scales such as global, regional or local level. These literature parameters are assessed through residents’ preferences using focused group discussions, in order to understand the level of importance each of the parameter has in their day-to-day lifestyle and how they find it impacting the livability of their locality, resultant of the varying morphological density. The findings and analysis from this survey shall help understand the people’s perception about those parameters for determining livability of a place in Indian context. This study will not only help for streamlining the knowledge to enhance livability at the local level but also help in understanding how it performs for the users through seeking their preferences with respect to the literature-based parameters of livability. This can help in understanding the performance of these livability parameters in any particular locality due to its morphological density, and thus support existing research and further helping to integrate the same within planning process.
Analysis of Thermal Parameters and Building forms in the Neighborhood of Rapidly Developing Urban Area Considering Outdoor Thermal Comfort
As urbanization accelerates, the significance of outdoor space quality in influencing the health and happiness of urban residents becomes paramount. This research delves into the often-neglected aspect of outdoor thermal comfort, examining its dependence on interconnected environmental parameters—Air Temperature, Globe Temperature, Relative Humidity, and Wind Speed—at the neighborhood level. Employing data collected in October 2021 through the Wet-Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) thermal index, a widely recognized measure for assessing heat stress, the study focuses on six diverse neighborhoods in the composite climate of Bhopal. The result shows that wind speed has a strong negative correlation (-4.7) with relative humidity and a strong positive correlation with WBGT (0.46), Air temperature (0.48), and globe temperature (0.45). Results show the height of the buildings has a positive correlation with air temperature (0.28) and globe temperature (0.39). Wind speed has a negative correlation with relative humidity (-0.43) and a positive correlation with air temperature (0.29) as well as globe temperature (0.22). The study identified that when the building height increases, the air temperature and global temperature also increase which results an increase in heat stress. Similarly when the wind speed increases the relative humidity decreases which help to cool down the air temperature and reduce the heat stress. The results show that wind speed is the most influencing factor in these areas for thermal comfort. This study gives an idea that thermal profile study may be helpful in urban design and planning. This study emphasizes the critical role of wind speed as the most influential factor in outdoor thermal comfort, urging its consideration in urban design and planning. The insights garnered underscore the potential benefits of thermal profile studies in shaping more informed and effective strategies for creating healthier and more comfortable urban environments.
Inland Waterway Transportation as an Indicator of Livability in the City of Kochi
This paper explores the impact of inland waterway transportation on the livability of Kochi, a major city in Kerala, India, with a focus on the convenience of the public in utilizing this mode of transport. Urbanization in India has led to increasing urban populations and associated challenges, such as informal settlements and pollution, which affect the quality of life and livability in cities. Livability, defined as the quality that makes a place suitable for living, emphasizes the importance of accessible and reliable transportation as a critical component. The study concentrates on Kochi, known for its significant reliance on public transport, including buses and ferries. The research aims to analyze the convenience of using the inland waterway transportation system in Kochi and its implications for city livability. The methodology involves site visits and observations with a specific focus on the Ernakulam Ferry station and Fort Kochi area to identify major issues, particularly the first and last-mile connectivity challenges. Findings indicate that despite the economic and environmental benefits of waterway transportation, the lack of convenient first and last-mile connectivity, along with poor pedestrian infrastructure and limited disabled access, hinders its usage. The paper suggests several improvements, such as the introduction of feeder bus services, relocation of bus stops closer to ferry stations, enhancement of pedestrian pathways, and the implementation of shared auto systems, to improve overall accessibility and encourage the use of inland waterway transportation. These measures aim to enhance Kochi's livability by providing an interconnected public transportation system that is convenient, comfortable, and economical for its residents.
Quantifying Wetland Loss in Bhopal Amidst Urban Sprawl: A Machine Learning Approach Using Multispectral Imagery
The process of urbanization has had a significant impact on the distribution of wetlands. This research aims to shed light on the interconnected dynamics between urban development and wetland alterations, providing valuable insights into environmental sustainability. The study will specifically focus on evaluating the performance of Machine Learning Algorithms in accurately mapping LULC (Land Use and Land Cover) from satellite datasets, i.e., optical (Sentinel-2), Landsat 8. By doing so, a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between urbanization and wetland distribution can be achieved. To achieve this, Machine Learning (ML) Algorithms like Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Minimum Distance (MD) are applied and tested. This allows for an in-depth analysis of the spatial aspects of urbanization and its subsequent impact on the distribution of wetlands in the specific context of Bhopal. Despite the presence of multiple wetland types in the region, the study acknowledges the challenges in classifying them. We found a 51.29% decrease in wetland area and a 29.57% increase in urban area from 2016-2021. The results also indicate that the Sentinel-2 dataset outperformed the Landsat dataset, emphasizing the significance of visual information. In essence, this research contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urbanization and wetland alterations, addressing the complexities involved in classifying diverse wetland types in the Bhopal region.
A Framework to Enhance Public Health and Wellbeing through Urban Green Spaces
The study aims to address the gap by developing a framework identifying key parameters of urban green spaces that enhance public health and wellbeing in smart cities. A rigorous review of existing literature and empirical data analysis was conducted to identify parameters such as the size, location, design, and biodiversity of green spaces, as well as the availability of amenities within them. The study explored various attributes affecting and impacting the urban green spaces in a city. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to achieve major attributes which were again refined according to the study and then were reduced to 7 attributes which have a direct connect with people, their connect to such spaces and its social viability. Priority based weights were given to the attributes and they ranked accordingly. Proximity to public green space was given Rank 1 with extent of urban green space as Rank 2, interactive activities was given Rank 3, perceived security through green spaces was ranked as 4, maintenance of urban green spaces was ranked as 5, building proximity to green spaces was ranked as 6 and lastly, the 7th rank was given to integration of blue landscapes. After the ranking was done, a renowned case from the New York was selected to validate the achieved attributes and check their relevance. It was concluded that the attributes were perfectly applicable to the case. It was inferred that people are affected by urban green spaces and their presence directly affects their health and wellbeing.
Gender Analysis of Commuters Travel Behavior and its Impact on Environmental Emissions
In Mumbai, the expanding economy has intensified the demand for efficient public transportation. However, the prevalent dependence on private vehicles, persistent traffic congestion and severely low air quality continues to be significant challenges for the city. While public transportation is crucial, its usage has declined (Comprehensive Transport Study, MMRDA, 2021) due to various challenges faced by commuters, particularly women. According to a World Bank study (Dappe & Dappe 2023), women comprise 32% of public transit users, whereas their male counterparts account for 24%. Despite the notable preference exhibited by women for public transit modes, the absence of gender-disaggregated data presents a challenge in accurately capturing their experiences and needs. It is essential to capture the subjective experiences of women commuters to foster a deeper understanding of women's perspectives and facilitate the development of inclusive solutions in the realm of public transportation. This study bridges the gap of unavailable gender disaggregated data by collating insights on travel choices from 515 commuters, with a specific focus on women, utilizing participatory methodologies such as surveys and semi-structured interviews. These surveys and interviews are specifically designed to capture the subjectivities which shed light on the disparity between men and women travel behaviour and the special needs of women commuters. Based on the mode choice of the participants, the study assesses environmental emissions generated based on gender and income categories. The study collates the challenges faced by women in accessing public transit and reveals that women exhibit a greater reliance on walking and public transit, culminating in lower per capita carbon emissions compared to their male counterparts in Mumbai.
Urban Floods Vulnerability Assessment- Mapping Development Trends and Knowledge Domains through Software Survey
Urban flood vulnerability, driven by climate change and rapid urbanization, poses critical challenges. These floods arise from a complex interplay of natural elements such as intense rainfall, snowmelt, and geographical features, compounded by human-induced factors like unchecked urban expansion, inadequate drainage systems, and the overarching influence of climate change. The consequences of urban floods are multifaceted, encompassing property destruction, disruptions to transportation systems, loss of human lives, the spread of waterborne diseases, and adverse environmental effects. This study, utilizing the Scopus database and VOSviewer, conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research articles on the subject. It reveals increasing importance in urban studies and disaster management, showcasing a significant uptick in publications. VOSviewer aids in visually representing bibliographic data, co-author relationships, and keyword associations, highlighting research clusters like “Disaster Management”, “Flood Control” and "Risk Perception”. The interdisciplinary nature of this research is emphasized, spanning environmental science, engineering, geography, and social sciences. The study identifies key authors, institutions, regional differences, and global collaboration networks, offering a valuable overview of urban flood vulnerability research. This analysis serves as a resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners addressing the impacts of urban flooding in an increasingly vulnerable world, contributing to climate change mitigation and infrastructure development for enhanced well-being.
Safety Perception and Gendered Use of Urban Green Parks (UGP): An Investigation of Impact on Visitation Patterns
Urban Green Parks (UGP) holds an important position in society which helps in improving human’s quality of life and uplifting many aspects of human and environment health. However, accessibility and distribution of these spaces has always been unequal to various social groups, with ignoring important factors such as gendered perception of safety. To understand sense of security, five factors are considered: visibility, lighting, cleanliness and hygiene, external security (CCTV, Neighborhood facing, etc.), mobility facilities. This paper aims to get insights on causes that leads to gender’s perceived fear in Urban Green Parks (UGP) and outline potential development solutions. This research employs physical surveys (N= 120, men and women) to understand residents’ perception and their requirement. The findings suggests that factors contributing to gendered perceived fear in UGPs. Women participants emphasized on lack of visibility, insufficient lighting and external security along with lack of hygiene in these public spaces as the factors that develops a sense of fear in them to use such spaces. Another essential need that came into focus was the availability of mobility amenities that are both inclusive and accessible. These research findings help in understanding the perception and need of UGP users which helps policymakers, urban planners and local authorities for developing gender-responsive strategies.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Dams and Their Role in Socio Economic Development of a Region
Dams, as critical infrastructural assets, wield a profound influence on the development of regions by serving as backbone for water resource management, agricultural expansion, and power generation. Their strategic implementation contributes significantly to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and overall resilience within the affected regions. The aim of this paper is to conduct bibliometric analysis, through the Scopus database and explores the scholarly landscape of dams and their impact on regional development. Utilizing keyword analysis, the study provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature, identifying trends, key themes, and research gaps in the field. The analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of dam-related research, encompassing infrastructure development, water resource management, environmental impact, and socio-economic considerations. The insights derived from this bibliometric study not only contribute to understanding the current state of knowledge but also offer a roadmap for future research endeavours, guiding scholars and policymakers in advancing sustainable dam projects that foster regional development.
Assessing the People’s Access to Public Spaces in Indian Cities: A Case of Bhubaneswar
The last couple of decades in India has been truly a time of urbanization as most of the urban areas have doubled in size with massive migrations from rural India. This trend has simultaneously presented urban India with a new set of challenges, with limited resources maintenance and usage became quite challenging and critical. Land resources have been one of the major concerns and terms of sustainable utilization. The balance in land use pattern is crucial in creating a healthy and functional city, yet it was getting increasingly difficult to manage the existing land resources, especially in cities. Public spaces are one of the vulnerable land resources among these. Without the protection of these spaces, it is an easier target for housing sectors and industries to acquire. Historically India used to have ample amount of public gathering spaces in any type of settlement. Yet in recent years with growing urbanization public spaces at now not easily accessible to everyone. Bhubaneswar has an open space ratio of 2.7 square meters per head with a lot of people residing outside its reachable distance. The WHO recommends 9 square meters of public spaces per person and the UN recommends accessibility of such public spaces for users within a 10-minute walk which is approximately 800 m. Modern Indian cities often lack the required public open spaces in an effective range to reach these parameters. This study tries to evaluate the current scenario of available public spaces in a two-pronged approach. Evaluating how many people can access the space, with GIS-based spatial mapping and using isochrone tools to analyze the coverage of each public space, Identifying the gaps in the current scenario and also trying to build a survey-based scenario to understand the public perception. This parallel approach resulted in the visualization of 54% population of the city that can't access public spaces while also providing information about people’s perspectives on which factors play crucial roles in creating a walkable neighborhood to make the public spaces more accessible.
Feasibility of Accessing Basic Services for Vulnerable Groups Amidst COVID-19 and Climate Change in South Sudan
Introduction: South Sudan's COVID-19 crisis is exacerbated by flooding, food shortages, limited access to basic services, and ongoing conflict. The country has limited ability to mitigate and adapt to increasingly unpredictable rainfall, heat, drought, flooding, and sea level rise. Women and men are vulnerable to climate change in different ways due to gendered norms, labor divisions, resource access, and power dynamics. Maladaptation can occur as a result of poor or insufficient adaptation, as well as when conditions change faster than the ability to adapt. Some people may engage in maladaptive coping strategies in response to stress or trauma, such as substance abuse, violence, or denial. Methodology: Using a mixed methods approach, this feasibility study included perspectives from household surveys (n= 462), FGDs (n= 6), and key informant interviews (n= 19) in 2021 in Jonglei state and 22 KII in 2023 in Juba with key humanitarian and health stakeholders, and displaced and host communities. The research question for this study is: How do gender roles and norms affect perceptions of urban living conditions? And what environmental challenges are faced by residents in South Sudan? Results: Floods and COVID-19 disrupted agricultural production and availability of food in the markets livelihood support and health information, we found flood-affected populations resorting to maladaptive strategies and behaviors. 85 percent of the land is covered by water and given the no-harvest period since 2020 in South Sudan. Survey results show that women resort to myriad techniques to meet basic food requirements: food aid (25%); reliance on relatives (16%) and distress sale of animal products (14%). Conclusion: This research looks at how different groups of women and men are affected by and respond to the health risks and consequences of COVID-19 and natural disasters. And how age, ethnicity, disability, and socioeconomic status affect their vulnerabilities and capabilities.
Localised Responses in Urban Areas for Forcibly Displaced Populations: A Case Study of Amman, Jordan in Shelter and Settlements Sector
With the increasing population of internally displaced people, the problem of forcibly displaced population has significantly affected the humanitarian well-being of the population. Jordan hosts around 659500 Syrians, who are among the top refugee populations. Over half of all 26 million refugees and every one in two internally displaced persons were estimated to live in urban areas (UNHCR, 2020). Large populations create socioeconomic disparities. Proximity to essential needs, better economic opportunities, similar cultural practices, and the probability of being granted asylum are key factors for refugees to choose urban areas for their settlement. In this case study, we focus on the city of Amman, Jordan, which has witnessed a much higher number of forcibly displaced populations in recent years among others, and show how localization has been part and parcel of the humanitarian response, especially in the sector of shelter and settlements. We also study the barriers and challenges experienced by the actors and stakeholders in the process.
Social Acceptability of High-rise Residential Buildings – A Case of Ahmedabad
The construction industry is a vital catalyst for economic expansion in developed and developing nations. The sector's prosperity in urban environments is particularly evident in high-rise structures. These projects garner significant public and private investments, crucial to a country's development. The trend of vertical growth of a city is directly proportional to attributes like affordability, existing policies of development, and land value in urban areas, which has tangentially increased residents on higher floors. The impact of these high-rise residential spaces on residents varies across dimensions like comfort, energy consumption, workplace accessibility, occupation, resident activity levels, and resource accessibility. The residents' willingness, motivation, and aspirations tied to living in high-rise residences are shaped by many factors, which can differ significantly in local contexts. In this context, this paper explores the evolving concept of high-rise buildings and their increasing prevalence, delving into the multifaceted impacts of high-rise residential spaces on the social fabric of their inhabitants. By considering the diverse criteria for defining tall buildings and analyzing their social consequences, this study contributes to our understanding of urban development and the dynamics of high-rise living, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of these modern urban environments. The paper mainly aims to map the willingness, aspiration, and motivation of the residents of high-rise residential complexes in the city of Ahmedabad. Mapping social acceptability can help developers, designers, architects, and policymakers aid the evolution through the lens of ease of living and attributes that significantly impact living on the higher floors.
India’s coastline is increasingly becoming vulnerable to climate change. Over the years, extreme climate change events such as floods, uneven rainfall and storm surges are becoming common around several coasts. These environmental changes will impede the social, cultural and economic patterns of the coasts. Moreover, partly inefficient disaster management and lack of mitigation and adaptation plans escalate the vulnerability of coastal communities. Coastal cities need to adopt an urban planning approach that can cope with these uncertainties. The paper seeks to understand the concept of ecological infrastructure as a planning tool to combat climate change impact in urban areas. It investigates the benefits of blue-green infrastructure (BGI) against the grey infrastructure used conventionally to manage services in cities. The paper explores design application of BGI through cases demonstrated in literature review around BGI. It also understands the challenges it faces and the opportunities it offers. The research underlines the importance of placemaking as a tool for effective management and sustainability of BGI. The conclusions drawn from this study, are applied to a design proposal prepared by the author’s team as a part of competition entry. The paper suggests few amendments and improvements from international best practices around BGI.