Planning for pilgrim movement

Abstract

Urban planning is a method that allows for the management of changes in a spatial context. It involves a holistic approach to planning activities, considering economic, environmental, and social goals. The planning process typically involves studying past trends and developing proposals for the future. The Ganges River basin is a large alluvial plain that covers an area of 1.1 million square kilometers and is home to over one-quarter of India's population of more than one billion people. The river has facilitated the development of various forms of human habitation, including densely populated cities, small towns, industrial areas, sacred sites, mountains, and forests. The interface that exists between the man-made interventions and the river is unique and consisting of many layers. The term "pilgrim" has been used for centuries to describe those who embark on a journey to visit sacred sites or perform religious rites. The act of pilgrimage is often seen as a transformative experience that allows individuals to connect with their faith, renew their beliefs, and gain a deeper understanding of their spiritual identity. Pilgrims often embark on long and arduous journeys, facing physical and mental challenges along the way, which are believed to purify the soul and deepen their connection to the divine. Prayagraj is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The city is located at the confluence of three sacred rivers, the Ganges, the Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati, making it a highly revered and holy site. The city has been associated with religious beliefs and practices for thousands of years. Millions of pilgrims from all over the world visit the city during this time to take a holy dip in the sacred rivers. The most significant of these is the Sangam, the point where the three sacred rivers meet. It is believed that taking a dip in the Sangam during auspicious times can wash away one's sins and grant them spiritual liberation. To comprehensively understand and address the challenges associated with managing the movement of pilgrims, the study will be carried out using a multipronged approach. The first step involves mapping the footfall of pilgrims across the ghats in the study area, to know the footfall of all ghats and based on footfall finalizing ghats based on footfall. The second step will be to identify the issues and 6 Planning for Pilgrim Movement: A Case of Prayagraj City challenges that currently exist with the existing pilgrim movement, such as overcrowding, traffic congestion and accident rate. Finally, based on the findings of the first two steps, the study will propose planning interventions based on two analysis methods, network analysis and space syntax analysis to facilitate the movement of pilgrims.