Britannica has a comprehensive definition of urban planning. It goes like this: “design and regulation of the uses of space that focus on the physical form, economic functions, and social impacts of the urban environment and on the location of different activities within it.”
The very next line in that exposition also underlines just how hard it may be to actually do it. “Because urban planning draws upon engineering, architectural, and social and political concerns, it is variously a technical profession, an endeavour involving political will and public participation, and an academic discipline.”
Historically, most cities grew as a response to economic developments – ports, mines, industries and so on. Some cities were planned such as Navi Mumbai or Chandigarh. But those are few. Mumbai too has grown and expanded as per the needs of the people – indigenous and immigrants – and the demands of the economy.
Planners often work with the administration, local and union governments to ensure that the long term strategies, plans and their execution is sustainable, fair and people-centric. But naturally, for city planners or urban planners, working backwards to make existing systems work for a growing population is no easy task.
Through this series of articles, we look at multiple facets of urban planning, how they have actually played out in various spaces and projects in Mumbai, from informal settlements to redevelopment of mill lands, and what it means for people living in the city. Thus it gives readers an opportunity to understand the process and significance of planning in their everyday lives and to demand accountability from planners and implementing authorities.
The series is supported by ATE Chandra Foundation. One of ATECF’s focus areas is Urban Planning and Development, and as a part of this effort, this series will will bring insight and understanding on how planning and design can improve the everyday lives of our urban citizens.
