Planning strategies for historic core of Meerut city

Abstract

This thesis sets out to examine the case for upgradation of the historic business district of Meerut city, Uttar Pradesh in terms of sustainability aspects. India is confronting rapid urbanization which are causing deteriorating living conditions additionally degrading quality of life in terms of physical, social, economical, heritage aspects. Historically, urban regions have continuously been the beating heart of flourishing economic activity and social interaction. Traditional and modern ways of life are adjusted in a dynamic blend of societies: intangible heritage, socio-cultural values and knowledge systems are kept by the inhabitants who are at the heart of urban revitalisation. Core city areas speak to a gigantic supply of financial and human resources for the full city but, at the same time, they are encountering extreme urban development challenges, such as poverty, insufficient housing, poor living conditions, need of gainful business opportunities and exclusion from the standard urban development process. There is a need to create a culture of resource allocation that places the needs of vulnerable groups and individuals on an equal footing with the interests of those who are better off. One of the best way to address this pressing issue is to involve all stakeholders – municipal authorities, universities, residents, NGO’s, as well as policy makers at various levels in the process of urban planning and delivering. In this thesis, historic core of Meerut city is explored through primary surveys and archival research. The area is assessed in terms of sustainability and the problem definition. In order to determine this, two sub- questions arised that: What is the current situation of the area? And What are the main weakness of the area? Hence, the existing system, and the gaps within this system has been explored. The research is a qualitative exploratory case-study, based on the interviews of primary actors, rapid survey, and observation supported by photographic documentation. Research findings indicated that land use is determined on the basis of need and locational advantages. Secondly, the need of stakeholders are being catered to through various enabling mechanisms, such as informal sector, social support and institution of collaboration. Thirdly, the area have much potential in terms of economy however, it’s degrading because of unavailability of loans and schemes and infrastructure. Paradoxically, the physical proximity of different inter-related land uses is typical of the small scale industries; if these parts are separated in space, the system would not be able to function. Based on the analysis, there is a need of improvements in the existing conditions and uses of the area. Above all, this requires a strategic planning approach that is based on an understanding of the contribution of people and stakeholders to that system and incorporates the area’s existing functions with both inter zonal and city wide linkages. Based on this observation and understanding proposals and recommendations are given in this study.