Planning for river sensitive development in cities

Abstract

Over the years increased pressure of Urbanization and population growth in cities have adversely affected the river-cities relationships. Cities have been mainly held responsible for the deteriorated states of rivers & water bodies. There is a need for new–river thinking cities. This study aims to develop an inclusive River sensitive urban planning approach for the city of Patna and addresses the river Ganga looks at how the city has missed the opportunity to address. The study focuses on planning for river–sensitive development examining the relationship between river and city, and then deals with addressing the various urban sectors that have an impact on the river. This study includes the delineation of water sensitive zone for Patna based on existing WSZ guidelines using a combination of mapping tools, geographic information system. Further the present study unfolds the major factors affecting the river sensitive urban planning of Patna through the objective analysis of different parameters used for framing the master plan of river sensitive city and finds out the major concern areas. Thereafter additionally study includes the analysis of Patna master plan examines the adoption and consideration of river sensitive urban planning approach and gap identification. On the basis of findings the present study further provides required measures for promoting river sensitive planning in Patna.