Investigating application of compact urban form in central Indian cities

Background: Developed countries adopt a compact city urban form or the densification policy for sustainable development. However, the conditions differ in the context of developing and developed countries. India has high-density planning and there exists scarce research on the applicability of compact city urban form for sustainable development. Method: This study assesses the population density in central Indian urban areas. It divides the city into various segments and compares them with the prescribed density range (as per Indian standards). Further, it conducts a spatial assessment of facilities in the segments; and conducts a public opinion survey (480 respondents) to compare living environment and quality of life in each segment. Results: It shows that density levels within the city vary considerably. Some NHs show scope for densification while some don't. Therefore, a densification policy will have limited applications. Spatial assessment of facilities shows a lack of facilities in the outskirts. Public opinion reveals a good living environment and quality of life in most of the areas having access to facilities. Conclusions: The results confirm that a uniform policy related to density cannot be applied to NHs in organically formed Indian cities. It confirms that an optimum density can result in better access to facilities. It also confirms no ill effects of high-density living in central Indian residents. Furthermore, this paper discusses the policy implications using the results of the study. This study can be a starting point for the formulation of density policies and SDG 11 goals for the sustainable Indian neighbourhoods.