Abstract:
Exponential growth of informalities in the urban fabric of developing countries has
become an important topic of discussion in recent times. In response to rapid
urbanization, migration is acting as a catalyst for mutation of informalities in the
cities. As cost benefits between rural and urban incomes are directly visible, it is
leading to expansive and accumulative growth of the cities.
The term informality was adopted from economic section referencing to something
which is not legal. Similarly, spatial manifestation of informality is referred as
encroachments in cities. There are different ways in which informality is theorized in
relation with the political, economical and social aspect reflecting directly or indirectly
on physical structure of the city. Interdependency of formal and informal sector is
governed by these determinants which helps us to understand its nature.
In early 21st century adverse effects of the liberalization policies were felt on labour,
hence need for formulation of policies was recognized for the first time. So far to
deal with informalities, relocating or removing, etc. are the tools which city authority
tends to use. But these attempts have been unsuccessful in most of the cases and
issue of encroachments is still unresolved. It can be noted that in the recently
launched Smart City Mission by GOI, the sector of informalities still remains
untouched.
Wherein, spatial aspect of informality is one of the major factors governing the
structure of place. Hence this study is an attempt to unfold the hidden physical
structure of informality in the core city of Solapur. The physical determinants of
formal setting and informalities around it are to be studied. Also the impact of these
determinants on the quality of space in the precinct will be analyzed.
