Tag: urban-planning

Benefits that Long Last after Transit Oriented Development

Daily writing prompt
Describe one positive change you have made in your life.
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By Shashikant Nishant Sharma

One positive change that can profoundly inspire the life of an urban planner is the successful implementation of a transformative Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) project within their city or region. TOD represents a holistic approach to urban planning that centers around creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities around public transit hubs. Here’s how the successful execution of a TOD project can inspire urban planners:

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  1. Impact on Urban Mobility: A well-executed TOD project can significantly improve urban mobility by promoting the use of public transportation, walking, and cycling over private car ownership. This shift towards sustainable transportation modes reduces traffic congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions, leading to cleaner and healthier urban environments.
  2. Enhanced Quality of Life: TODs prioritize mixed-use development, walkable neighborhoods, and access to amenities such as parks, schools, healthcare facilities, and retail establishments. By fostering vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environments, TODs enhance the overall quality of life for residents, making cities more livable and enjoyable places to reside.
  3. Promotion of Social Equity: TODs have the potential to address social equity concerns by providing affordable housing options, improving access to jobs and educational opportunities, and fostering inclusive communities. Successful TOD projects can help reduce disparities in access to transportation and amenities, thereby promoting social cohesion and economic opportunity for all residents.
  4. Economic Development: TODs can stimulate economic development by attracting investment, creating jobs, and revitalizing underutilized or blighted areas around transit stations. The increased density and activity generated by TODs can support local businesses, spur entrepreneurship, and contribute to the overall economic vitality of urban areas.
  5. Environmental Sustainability: TODs promote sustainable land use and transportation practices, which are essential for mitigating climate change and protecting natural resources. By encouraging compact development, reducing car dependence, and preserving green spaces, TODs contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and the preservation of ecosystems within urban areas.
  6. Community Engagement and Empowerment: Successful TOD projects often involve extensive community engagement and participatory planning processes, empowering residents to shape the future of their neighborhoods. By involving stakeholders in decision-making and fostering collaboration between government agencies, developers, and community organizations, TODs can build trust, foster social capital, and promote civic engagement.
  7. Demonstration of Best Practices: A successful TOD project serves as a tangible demonstration of best practices in urban planning, design, and development. It can inspire other cities and regions to replicate similar initiatives, leading to a broader adoption of TOD principles and strategies across different contexts. This ripple effect can catalyze positive change on a larger scale and contribute to the advancement of sustainable urban development worldwide.

In conclusion, the successful implementation of a transformative Transit-Oriented Development project can inspire urban planners by demonstrating the potential for creating more sustainable, equitable, and livable cities. By prioritizing public transportation, mixed land uses, social inclusion, and environmental stewardship, TODs exemplify a holistic approach to urban planning that balances the needs of people, the economy, and the environment. As such, they serve as powerful catalysts for positive change and exemplars of urban innovation and progress.

References

Carlton, I. (2009). Histories of transit-oriented development: Perspectives on the development of the TOD concept.

Cervero, R. (2004). Transit-oriented development in the United States: Experiences, challenges, and prospects.

Ibraeva, A., de Almeida Correia, G. H., Silva, C., & Antunes, A. P. (2020). Transit-oriented development: A review of research achievements and challenges. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 132, 110-130.

Nasri, A., & Zhang, L. (2014). The analysis of transit-oriented development (TOD) in Washington, DC and Baltimore metropolitan areas. Transport policy, 32, 172-179.

Sharma, S. N., Kumar, A., & Dehalwar, K. (2024). The Precursors of Transit-oriented Development. Economic and Political Weekly, 59(14), 16–20. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10939448

Xu, W., Guthrie, A., Fan, Y., & Li, Y. (2017). Transit-oriented development in China: Literature review and evaluation of TOD potential across 50 Chinese cities. Journal of Transport and Land Use, 10(1), 743-762.

Gender and Its Implications for Spatial Planning: Understanding the Impact

Daily writing prompt
What’s the most fun way to exercise?
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By Kavita Dehalwar

Spatial planning plays a critical role in shaping the physical environment of communities, influencing how people interact with their surroundings and access resources and opportunities. However, the planning process is often influenced by various social factors, including gender. Gender refers to the social, cultural, and economic attributes and roles associated with being male or female, which can significantly influence how individuals experience and navigate spaces. Understanding the implications of gender on spatial planning is essential for creating inclusive and equitable environments that meet the diverse needs of all community members.

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Gendered Spaces and Access

One of the primary ways gender influences spatial planning is through the creation of gendered spaces. Gendered spaces are areas that are designed, perceived, and used differently by men and women due to societal norms, cultural practices, and individual preferences. For example, public transportation systems, parks, and recreational facilities may be designed with specific gender biases, impacting accessibility and usability for different genders. Women, for instance, may perceive certain spaces as unsafe due to inadequate lighting or lack of surveillance, limiting their mobility and access to public amenities.

Furthermore, the division of labor based on gender roles can influence spatial patterns. For instance, women often bear the primary responsibility for caregiving and household chores, which can affect their travel patterns and access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Spatial planning must consider these gendered dynamics to ensure that infrastructure and services are distributed equitably and efficiently, addressing the needs of all members of the community.

Safety and Security

Gender also plays a significant role in perceptions of safety and security within the built environment. Women, in particular, may experience harassment, violence, or fear of crime in public spaces, which can restrict their freedom of movement and limit their participation in social and economic activities. Spatial planning strategies such as urban design, lighting, and surveillance measures can help mitigate these risks and create safer environments for all genders.

Inclusive Design and Accessibility

An inclusive approach to spatial planning involves designing environments that accommodate the needs of diverse populations, including different genders, ages, abilities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Gender-sensitive design considers how spaces are used and experienced by men, women, and non-binary individuals, ensuring that infrastructure, facilities, and services are accessible and welcoming to all.

For example, public restrooms are often designed with binary gender distinctions, which can be exclusionary for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. Gender-inclusive design promotes the creation of gender-neutral facilities that accommodate diverse identities and preferences, fostering inclusivity and reducing stigma and discrimination.

Participation and Decision-Making

Gender dynamics also influence participation and decision-making processes in spatial planning. Women and other marginalized groups are often underrepresented in planning processes, resulting in policies and interventions that may not adequately address their needs and priorities. Engaging diverse stakeholders, including women, in decision-making processes can lead to more inclusive and responsive spatial planning outcomes.

Furthermore, empowering women as planners, policymakers, and community leaders can help challenge existing gender norms and biases within the planning profession, promoting greater gender equity in urban and regional development initiatives.

Conclusion

Gender is a fundamental aspect of spatial planning, shaping how individuals experience and interact with the built environment. Recognizing and addressing the implications of gender in spatial planning is essential for creating inclusive, safe, and equitable communities where all individuals can thrive. By adopting a gender-sensitive approach to planning and design, policymakers, planners, and stakeholders can work towards building cities and regions that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of their populations.

References

Damyanovic, D. (2016). Gender mainstreaming as a strategy for sustainable urban planning. In Fair Shared Cities (pp. 177-192). Routledge.

Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2015). Current State of Water Management System: Case Review of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. International Journal of Civil, Structural, Environmental and Infrastructure Engineering Research and Development (IJCSEIERD), 5(6), 35-40.

Dehalwar, K. Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms.

Garcia-Ramon, M. D., Ortiz, A., & Prats, M. (2004). Urban planning, gender and the use of public space in a peripherial neighbourhood of Barcelona. Cities, 21(3), 215-223.

Malaza, N., Todes, A., & Williamson, A. (2009). Gender in planning and urban development.

McDowell, L. (1983). Towards an understanding of the gender division of urban space. Environment and planning D: Society and Space, 1(1), 59-72.

Rakodi, C. (1991). Cities and people: Towards a gender‐aware urban planning process?. Public Administration and Development, 11(6), 541-559.

Sánchez de Madariaga, I., & Neuman, M. (2016). Mainstreaming gender in the city. Town Planning Review, 87(5), 493-504.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Participatory Planning in Plan Preparation. BookCountry.

Spain, D. (2014). Gender and urban space. Annual Review of Sociology, 40, 581-598.

Bridging the Gap: Community-Based and Workshop-Based Approaches to Address Rural and Urban Planning Issues

By Kavita Dehalwar

The dynamics of rural and urban spaces are constantly evolving, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for planners and policymakers. In both settings, community engagement and participatory approaches are essential for sustainable development. However, the methodologies to address issues in rural and urban areas differ due to their distinct characteristics. This article explores the significance of community-based and workshop-based methods in tackling planning issues in both rural and urban environments.

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Rural Planning Issues:

Rural areas often face challenges such as limited access to basic amenities, inadequate infrastructure, economic disparities, and environmental degradation. These issues require tailored solutions that consider the specific needs and contexts of rural communities. Community-based methods involve active participation of local residents, stakeholders, and community organizations in the planning process. This approach acknowledges the unique knowledge and perspectives of rural inhabitants, empowering them to be co-creators of their own development.

Community-based methods in rural planning often include participatory rural appraisal (PRA), community mapping, focus group discussions, and consensus-building exercises. These methods facilitate inclusive decision-making, foster social cohesion, and promote ownership of development initiatives. By engaging local communities, planners can gain insights into the socio-economic dynamics, cultural heritage, and environmental concerns that shape rural landscapes.

Urban Planning Issues:

Urban areas, on the other hand, grapple with challenges such as rapid urbanization, inadequate housing, traffic congestion, pollution, and social exclusion. Effective urban planning requires holistic approaches that balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Workshop-based methods offer a structured platform for stakeholders to collaborate, exchange ideas, and co-design solutions to complex urban problems.

The comparative and exhaustive table outlining planning issues in urban and rural India:

Planning IssuesUrban IndiaRural India
Population DensityHigh population density leading to congestion,Low population density with scattered settlements,
pressure on infrastructure, and housingbut pockets of high population density in some
shortages.regions.
InfrastructureInadequate infrastructure including roads,Limited access to basic amenities such as
water supply, sanitation, and waste management.clean water, electricity, sanitation, and roads.
HousingInformal settlements, slums, and housingLack of affordable housing, poor quality housing,
shortages leading to overcrowding andand traditional construction methods.
inadequate living conditions.
EmploymentFormal and informal sectors, but high rates ofAgriculture-based livelihoods, seasonal migration
unemployment and underemployment.to cities for employment opportunities.
EconomyDiverse economic activities includingAgriculture-dependent economy with low income
manufacturing, services, and commerce.levels and limited diversification.
EducationAccess to quality education but disparities inLimited access to schools, especially higher
rural-urban divide.education institutions.
HealthcareHealthcare facilities available but disparitiesLimited healthcare infrastructure, lack of
in quality and accessibility, especially intrained medical professionals, and inadequate
rural areas.access to healthcare services.
EnvironmentPollution, degradation of natural resources,Deforestation, soil erosion, water scarcity,
and loss of green spaces.and pollution from agricultural practices.
GovernanceComplex governance structures, bureaucraticLimited access to government services,
hurdles, and corruption.bureaucratic inefficiencies, and corruption.
Social InclusionUrban poverty, social exclusion, and disparitiesMarginalization of marginalized communities,
in access to resources and opportunities.caste-based discrimination, and lack of
social infrastructure.

This table provides a comprehensive overview of the planning issues in both urban and rural India, highlighting the diverse challenges faced by each setting. These issues necessitate tailored planning and policy interventions to address the unique needs and contexts of urban and rural communities.

Workshop-based methods in urban planning often involve charrettes, design thinking sessions, urban labs, and scenario planning exercises. These workshops bring together diverse stakeholders, including residents, businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, to brainstorm innovative strategies and visualize future scenarios for urban development. By fostering cross-sectoral collaboration and creative problem-solving, workshop-based methods facilitate the integration of diverse perspectives into urban planning processes.

Bridging the Gap:

While rural and urban planning issues may differ in scale and scope, there are common principles that underpin effective planning approaches in both contexts. Community engagement, participatory decision-making, and capacity building are key elements that can bridge the gap between rural and urban planning practices.

In rural areas, community-based methods empower local residents to identify their priorities, leverage local resources, and build resilient communities. By fostering a sense of ownership and agency, these methods can help address issues such as poverty alleviation, sustainable agriculture, and natural resource management.

In urban areas, workshop-based methods facilitate collaboration between various stakeholders to address complex urban challenges. By harnessing the collective intelligence of diverse actors, these methods can lead to innovative solutions for improving urban livability, promoting inclusive growth, and enhancing environmental quality.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, addressing rural and urban planning issues requires a nuanced understanding of local contexts, stakeholders, and dynamics. Community-based and workshop-based methods offer complementary approaches to engage residents, foster collaboration, and co-create sustainable solutions. By combining the strengths of these methodologies, planners and policymakers can navigate the complexities of rural and urban landscapes, and work towards building inclusive, resilient, and vibrant communities for the future.

References

Dehalwar, K., & Sharma, S. N. (2023). Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience. Think India Journal, 26(4), 12-18.

Dehalwar, K., & Singh, J. (2016). Challenges and strategies for the improvement of water management in Bhopal. European Scientific Journal, 12(2).

Levy, J. M., Hirt, S., & Dawkins, C. J. (2009). Contemporary urban planning. Upper Saddle River: Pearson/Prentice Hall.

Pinson, D. (2004). Urban planning: an ‘undisciplined’discipline?. Futures, 36(4), 503-513.

Sharma, S. N. (2014). Participatory Planning in Plan Preparation. BookCountry.

Sharma, S. N., & Abhishek, K. (2015). Planning Issue in Roorkee Town. Planning.

Sharma, S. N. (2005). Evaluation of the JnNURM Programme of Government of India for Urban Renewal. Think India Journal, 8(2), 1-7.

Watson, V. (2009). Seeing from the South: Refocusing urban planning on the globe’s central urban issues. Urban studies, 46(11), 2259-2275.

Understanding the Dynamics of Peri-Urban Areas: Navigating the Interface Between Urban and Rural Realms

By Kavita Dehalwar

Peri-urban areas, situated at the fringe of urban centers, represent a unique and dynamic space that embodies the confluence of urban and rural characteristics. These transitional zones are increasingly becoming focal points for researchers, policymakers, and planners due to their distinct challenges and opportunities. This article explores the multifaceted nature of peri-urban areas, shedding light on their defining features, issues, and the implications for sustainable development.

Image Credit: Idczak, P., & Mrozik, K. (2018)

Peri-urban areas, the dynamic spaces straddling the urban and rural realms, have been subjects of extensive research, each contributing valuable insights into their unique challenges and opportunities. The works of Dehalwar et al. (“Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience”) and Kumar et al. (“Planning and Development of Housing in Urban Fringe Area: Case of Bhopal (M.P.)”) shed light on the struggles and resilience of communities in peri-urban Bhopal, illustrating the complex interplay of social, economic, and environmental factors.

Kombe’s study (“Land use dynamics in peri-urban areas and their implications on the urban growth and form: the case of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania”) delves into land use dynamics, emphasizing their impact on urban growth and form. This work highlights the need for comprehensive planning to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization on the fringes of cities.

Mortoja et al.’s systematic review (“What is the most suitable methodological approach to demarcate peri-urban areas?”) critically assesses various methodological approaches to demarcate peri-urban areas. Understanding the most suitable demarcation methods is crucial for effective planning and development interventions.

Rauws and de Roo (“Exploring transitions in the peri-urban area”) offer insights into the transitions occurring in peri-urban areas, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing these changes to ensure sustainable development.

Sharma’s extensive body of work, including “Urban forms in planning and design,” “Sustainable development strategies and approaches,” and “Review of most used urban growth models,” provides a comprehensive understanding of urban development, sustainability, and growth models. Additionally, Sharma et al.’s article in Thematics Journal of Geography (“Redefining Peri-urban Urban Areas”) contributes to the ongoing discourse on peri-urban areas, offering new perspectives and frameworks for understanding and planning these transitional zones.

Lastly, Wandl and Magoni (“Sustainable planning of peri-urban areas: Introduction to the special issue”) underscore the importance of sustainable planning in peri-urban areas. Their work provides a foundational perspective for policymakers and planners aiming to strike a balance between urbanization and environmental conservation in these crucial zones.

Collectively, these studies contribute to a holistic understanding of peri-urban areas, addressing their complexities, challenges, and sustainable development strategies. The interdisciplinary nature of the research reflects the diverse factors at play in these transitional spaces, ultimately guiding policymakers and researchers toward informed and effective interventions.

Defining Peri-Urban Areas:

Peri-urban areas, often referred to as the urban-rural interface, are regions that lie on the outskirts of expanding urban centers. These zones are characterized by a complex interplay of urban and rural elements, encompassing a mix of agricultural, residential, industrial, and recreational land uses. The boundaries between the urban and rural become blurred in peri-urban areas, creating a mosaic of land uses and socio-economic activities.

Features and Challenges:

  1. Land Use Diversity: Peri-urban areas exhibit diverse land uses, ranging from traditional agriculture and rural settlements to industrial zones and suburban developments. This diversity poses challenges in land management, as conflicting interests may arise between agricultural preservation and urban expansion.
  2. Infrastructure and Services: The rapid urbanization of peri-urban areas often outpaces the development of necessary infrastructure and services. Issues such as inadequate transportation, water supply, and sanitation facilities can impede the quality of life for residents.
  3. Environmental Concerns: Balancing the preservation of natural resources with urban growth is a critical concern in peri-urban regions. Deforestation, pollution, and the depletion of water resources are challenges that require sustainable planning and management strategies.
  4. Social Dynamics: Peri-urban areas experience social transformations as migration and urbanization influence local communities. This can lead to issues related to cultural identity, social cohesion, and access to education and healthcare.

Opportunities for Sustainable Development:

  1. Integrated Planning: Adopting integrated planning approaches that consider both urban and rural aspects is essential for sustainable peri-urban development. This involves collaboration between urban and rural planners to create cohesive land use strategies.
  2. Agricultural Innovation: Supporting sustainable agriculture practices in peri-urban areas can enhance food security while preserving rural livelihoods. This may involve promoting agroecology, local markets, and alternative farming methods.
  3. Green Infrastructure: Designing peri-urban areas with green spaces, parks, and sustainable infrastructure not only improves the quality of life but also contributes to environmental conservation.
  4. Community Engagement: Involving local communities in decision-making processes is crucial for addressing the unique challenges of peri-urban areas. Community engagement ensures that development initiatives align with the needs and aspirations of residents.

Conclusion:

Peri-urban areas stand at the crossroads of urbanization and rural life, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Effectively managing these transitional zones requires a holistic and integrated approach that considers the diverse needs of residents, the environment, and the economy. By acknowledging the complexity of peri-urban dynamics, planners and policymakers can work towards fostering sustainable development that respects the unique identity of these areas.

References

Dehalwar, Kavita, and Shashikant Nishant Sharma. “Fate of Slums of Bhopal-A Tale of Struggle and Resilience.” Think India Journal 26.4 (2023): 12-18.

Idczak, P., & Mrozik, K. (2018). Periurbanisation – evidence from Polish metropolitan areas. Economic and Environmental Studies, 18(45), 173–192. https://doi.org/10.25167/ees.2018.45.11

Kombe, Wilbard Jackson. “Land use dynamics in peri-urban areas and their implications on the urban growth and form: the case of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.” Habitat International 29.1 (2005): 113-135.

Kumar, G., Vyas, S., Sharma, S. N., & Dehalwar, K. (2023). Planning and Development of Housing in Urban Fringe Area: Case of Bhopal (M.P.). GIS Business, 18(1), 1–14.

Mortoja, Md Golam, Tan Yigitcanlar, and Severine Mayere. “What is the most suitable methodological approach to demarcate peri-urban areas? A systematic review of the literature.” Land Use Policy 95 (2020): 104601.

Rauws, W. S., and Gert de Roo. “Exploring transitions in the peri-urban area.” Planning Theory & Practice 12.2 (2011): 269-284.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Urban forms in planning and design.” International Journal of Research 1.1 (2014): 7-16.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Sustainable development strategies and approaches.” International Journal of Engineering and Technical Research (IJETR) 2 (2013).

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant. “Review of most used urban growth models.” International Journal of Advanced Research in Engineering and Technology (IJARET) 10.3 (2019): 397-405.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant, Shankar Chatterjee, and Kavita Dehalwar. “Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme: Challenges and Opportunities.” Think India Journal 26.1 (2023): 7-15.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant, ed. New perspectives in sociology and allied fields. EduPedia Publications (P) Ltd, 2016.

Sharma, Shashikant Nishant, Dehalwar, K., Kumar, G., & Vyas, S. (2023). Redefining Peri-urban Urban Areas. Thematics Journal of Geography, 12(3), 8–13.

Wandl, Alexander, and Marcello Magoni. “Sustainable planning of peri-urban areas: Introduction to the special issue.” Planning Practice & Research 32.1 (2017): 1-3.