DOI: 10.5176/2425-0112_UPPD15.01
Authors: Pradeep R. and Dr. P. P. Anilkumar
Abstract: The state of Kerala in Indian union is well known for its homestead pattern of agricultural land use. This rather uniform pattern of development without much dichotomy in the urban and rural areas is considered as unique to the landscape of the state. The shift in the occupation structure, during past couple of decades, from agricultural to tertiary sector has triggered rapid urbanization all over the state. The planning authorities are finding it difficult to provide infrastructure uniformly all over the state to support rapid urbanization. Uniform urbanization at a faster pace all over the state is challenging the delicate balance of nature. Compact development is perceived as a solution for sustainably carrying out the urbanization trends. The provision of built space in any area is determined by the development control parameter- Floor Area Ratio (F.A.R.). In practice F.A.R. is more arbitrarily decided and is more occupancy dependent. It neither helps in confining urbanization but causes the spread of urbanized areas. The current practice is not addressing the increasing demand of built space, which is location specific. For achieving compact development and regulating built space provision in a sustainable manner, there needs a more rational and alternate approach of built space regulation ensuring equity, addressing built space demand, conserving environment and also confining urban development. This paper deliberates on a more rational conceptual framework for formulating location specific F.A.R regulations which will address the three pillars of sustainable development - equity, economy and environment, and faciitate compact development.
Keywords: Built environment, Floor Area Ratio / Floor Space index, Sustainability, Kerala
Updating...