Strategic Integration of SDGs Into Town Planning Schemes:

Abstract

As urban areas expand, there is a pressing need to address the positive and negative impacts of this growth. Urbanization brings economic development, improved infrastructure, and enhanced quality of life for many, but it also strains resources, exacerbates environmental degradation, and intensifies social inequalities. By examining the positive and negative impacts of rapid urbanization, with a focus on the need for green spaces, it seeks to understand how the adoption of SDGs can mitigate adverse effects and foster sustainable urban development. The lack of green spaces in contemporary urban layouts, however, constitutes an important concern. Sustainable urban development is critically needed, as seen by the decrease in green spaces in the face of growing urbanization. In terms of social, environmental, and economic aspects of sustainable development, urban open areas provide essential ecosystem services. The Gujarat Town Planning Scheme significantly contributes to the organization of spatial layouts and the facilitation of public land allocation. Through assessing the influence of town planning schemes (TPSs), a widespread spatial planning mechanism in Gujarat, valuable insights can be gleaned regarding how urban planning policies can be customized to address specific environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices. Land use planning is a crucial tool for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In alignment with the SDGs, it is crucial to strengthen the scheme's emphasis on green spaces. This enhancement can significantly improve urban living conditions and citizen welfare. Particularly in Surat, a rapidly expanding city grappling with a scarcity of green areas, there is a pressing need for the development of blue and green infrastructure. This strategic approach is essential for enhancing the city's resilience and sustainability amidst its rapid growth. Embracing localized SDG indicators fosters community involvement in green space planning, fosters a sense of ownership, and improves environmental quality, public health, and overall well-being. This holistic approach not only elevates the quality of life for Surat's residents but also significantly contributes to the advancement of SDGs related to sustainable urban development. Identifying the concerns arising from rapid urbanization but also offering constructive pathways towards addressing these concerns through the integration of SDGs into urban planning practices fosters collaboration and innovation. It is envisaged that Surat and other urban centers in India can achieve Abstract | V “Strategic Integration of SDGs into Town Planning Schemes: A Comprehensive Framework for Urban Development” sustainable and inclusive growth in a positive and impactful manner. Collaboration and innovation are key to fostering inclusive development and contributing to SDG advancements in urban sustainability.