Measuring Utility of Vertical Expansion in Kolkata Region and Its Future Prospect

Metropolitan cities in India are witnessing a significant surge in population, directly impacting the rapid advancement of urban infrastructure, the growth of the service sector, and the proliferation of various economic activities within these regions. Kolkata’s urban expansion is accelerating primarily through vertical growth due to limited space, mirroring the prevailing trend in many million-plus cities across the Indian subcontinent. However, this growth poses challenges related to risk, urban amenities, environmental impact, and the management of vertical expansion. The aim of this study is to elucidate Kolkata’s vertical expansion by conducting a comparative analysis with other major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Additionally, the study seeks to analyze the various policy outcomes implemented in Kolkata to foster sustainable urban development. This analysis will be based on available secondary data sources and geospatial data analysis, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the trend of vertical urban growth in Kolkata. In this context, a high-rise building is defined as one with 6–7 stories (exceeding 23 m in height). This criterion serves as a benchmark to evaluate the current average height and the zones of concentrated high-rise infrastructural growth in the city. The primary motivation behind this urban growth assessment is to underscore the nature and potential of sustainable urban development not only in Indian cities but also in the broader context of the Global South.