Is mix-land use development the way forward for smart cities?

Mix land use developments, when initially started in India, were just a source of amusement, aesthetics and something that only the rich could afford. These were typically high end townships which were specifically targeted at the high end. However, today the concept has become the very basis for development of smart cities in the future.

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With the PM’s mantra of creating 100 smart cities, the focus on creating economies of agglomeration has come to the fore. It is in this regard that mixed land use becomes important.

Speaking at Municipalika 2014, to a gathering of various dignitaries from the housing sector in India, Dr Joan Clos, executive director, UN Habitat exclaimed, “mixed land use is the key to enhance economies of agglomeration. Today cities are witnessing scattered development which requires enhanced mobility.”

He stressed on the increased dependence on motorised transport in India. This indicates lack of planning that compels people to use their own vehicles to travel to their workplace or for entertainment etc. This is definitely a deterrent in the making of smart cities.

If all these are made available within a minimum distance, the dependence on motorised and personal transport can be reduced drastically.

The model of Dholera and Lavasa, two of the few smart cities in the making in India, point towards a mixed land use development.

“Lavasa is a mixed development with focus on both commercial as well as residential. We are focussing on creating a model that facilitates walk to work concept. Once ready, no person would have to travel more than 15 minutes to reach his or her workplace,” says Satish Kamat, deputy city manager, Lavasa Corporation Limited.

At present the mixed land use development concept is still will very novel in India. However, it needs a boost if we are to make the dream of 100 smart cities a reality in our country.

Source:http://content.magicbricks.com/industry-news/delhi-ncr-real-estate-news/is-mix-land-use-development-the-way-forward-for-smart-cities/79704.html