Unseen Dynamics of Vibrant Streetscapes: A Critical Analysis of Literature on Street Quality in India

By : Shraddha Kumar , Kajri Misra

Page No: 445-464

Abstract
Indian streets are vibrant, multifunctional spaces that go much beyond their basic function as mobility channels. They host street-level economies, flavours of food, celebration of festivals, angst of protests and so much more, all constituting a thickly interwoven cultural and social fabric. However, despite this rich and dynamic reality, Indian street design continues to prioritise its movement-centric functions as reflected in the standards of the Indian Road Congress (IRC). These standards emphasise technical efficiency while neglecting the social, economic, cultural and ecological roles that streets play. Though the latter aspects are addressed in some street-related research in India, this is fragmented and limited, focusing mostly on issues like safety, vending, and accessibility, without offering a more comprehensive understanding of streets as public spaces. Global literature does provide more comprehensive frameworks on street quality, but being mostly rooted in developed contexts, it fails to fully capture the informality, adaptability, and layered uses of streets in India. Thus, a comprehensive, context-sensitive framework for Indian street design is missing. There is a pressing need for research that systematically explores the notion of street quality in Indian cities, recognising their roles as community spaces and incorporating culturally relevant parameters into design and policy. A more holistic, place-based understanding of Indian streets is essential for creating inclusive, functional, and high-quality urban environments.

Authors:
Shraddha Kumar, Lecturer, School of Human Settlements, XIM University, Bhubaneswar
Dr. Kajri Misra, Dean, School of Human Settlements, XIM University, Bhubaneswar
 

DOI: DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/NL.2025.57.04.4