Urban Development Investments Reach ₹28.52 Lakh Crore, Paving the Way for Sustainable Growth
The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, announced a significant increase in urban sector investments, rising from ₹1.78 lakh crore during 2004-2014 to ₹28.52 lakh crore since 2014. This 16-fold surge underscores the government’s commitment to urban development as a cornerstone for achieving a developed India by 2047. Such investments reflect a […]
Cultivating Longevity: The Role of Urban Environments in Promoting Healthy Ageing
As life expectancy rises globally, cities play a crucial role in supporting healthy ageing for their residents. Urban environments can significantly influence physical health, mental well-being, and social inclusion, which are vital for the well-being of older adults. Cities that prioritize age-friendly design and policy can enhance quality of life, encourage active lifestyles, and promote […]
Designing Therapeutic Environments: Landscape Integration in Behavioral Healthcare Centers
In recent years, the design of behavioral healthcare centers has shifted towards creating environments conducive to therapy and healing. A central element of this evolution is the integration of landscapes, which plays a vital role in enhancing mental and emotional well-being for both patients and staff. This article delves into the benefits and design considerations […]
The Interplay Between Urban Noise, Stress, and Mitigative Strategies
Noise pollution in urban settings has garnered significant attention due to its pervasive impact on public health. Urban noise, primarily originating from traffic, industrial activities, and densely populated human environments, poses numerous health risks. Several studies have highlighted the detrimental effects of sustained noise exposure, which range from physiological health impacts to psychological and cognitive […]
The Interconnection of Urban Environments and Human Rights: A Global Perspective
As the world’s urban population continues to grow, reaching 4.4 billion in 2020 with projections for even greater urbanization, the quality of urban environments is increasingly being recognized as a crucial determinant of human rights. The right to an adequate standard of living, health, and well-being is compromised in many cities around the world due […]
Designing for Breathability: Architecture’s Influence on Indoor Air Quality and Health
In rapidly urbanizing countries like India, indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly impacts public health and well-being. Urban architecture faces the challenge of incorporating design elements that address pollution and its effects on health. Given the elevated levels of outdoor air pollution in many Indian cities, architectural strategies that enhance IAQ within buildings are essential. Architecture […]
Urban Design as a Remedy for Urban Loneliness and Emotional Health Challenges
As urban areas continue to grow, they face critical challenges related to social isolation and emotional health. Loneliness, though often associated with rural living, is a significant issue in crowded urban environments, exacerbating mental health challenges. This article explores how innovative urban design can serve as a remedy, creating spaces that foster social connections and […]
The Impact of Extreme Heat Events on Physiological and Psychological Health: The Role of Urban Planning and Design
The intensifying frequency and severity of extreme heat events, driven by climate change, present significant challenges to human health. These events cause a range of physiological and psychological consequences, requiring urgent attention from public health officials and urban planners to develop effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. Addressing these concerns in urban environments involves not only […]
Green Infrastructure: A Catalyst for Social Well-Being
Green infrastructure (GI) is increasingly recognized as a transformative approach to urban planning that promotes social well-being. Defined as a network of natural and semi-natural systems providing ecosystem services, GI encompasses parks, greenways, urban forests, and green roofs, among others (Tzoulas et al., 2007). Unlike traditional grey infrastructure, which prioritizes mechanical solutions, GI integrates ecological […]
