Developing a Framework for Understanding Vulnerability of Public Spaces to Urban Processes: Case of Historic Cities in Rajasthan

By : Urvashi Srivastava, Amit Hajela, Anil Dewan

Page No: 57-85

Abstract
Public Spaces in historic cities with their distinct spatial quality and humane character provide a ‘sense of place, belongingness and bonding.’ However, urban processes have transformed inner core areas in historic cities and impacted public spaces. Increased demand for housing, commerce and infrastructure have triggered urban processes that have exposed public spaces to transformation phenomena, acting as threats to their integrity. Unique experience and quality of life that these public spaces support is rapidly getting lost leading to a stressful living environment. This research has developed a novel approach for studying public spaces using the lens of vulnerability. Literature review and in-situ field study in four historic cities in Rajasthan helped identify variables of insensitive changes in public spaces. Statistical tools combined with local community assessment helped establish public space vulnerability indicators and a framework for assessment of public space vulnerability to urban processes.

Authors :
Urvashi Srivastava : Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India.
Dr. Amit Hajela : Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India.
Dr. Anil Dewan : Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, India.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/NL.2024.56.01.5