Environmental Planning Strategies for Resilient City: Case Study of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is facing a variety of natural and human-induced shocks and stresses due to increasing urbanization. The unprecedented demographic, environmental, and spatial challenges faced by the city pose a considerable risk to its resilience. Fostering resilience would help plan for a more livable and sustainable city. The existing studies and research helped to streamline the acute shocks and chronic stresses that the city encounters, with water emerging as a major challenge. This study attempted to assess the aspects of water resilience at multiple spatial scales. At the regional scale land-use changes, anthropogenic and physiographic factors affecting water resilience were examined, leading to the identification of two critical watersheds. Owing to its high urban population and density, Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation faces multiple challenges on the infrastructure front. These challenges include a dearth of green spaces, ageing and inadequate sewerage systems, water supply, and poor waste management. These aspects pose multiple threats to resilience. Critical zones were identified through vulnerability assessment. We conclude the paper with proposals for climate-proof communities, economies, and infrastructure, which should be incorporated into master plans and development plans for effective implementation.