MEDS 042: Block-5 (Unit 04) – Open Spaces

 UNIT 4: OPEN SPACES

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4.1 Introduction

Open spaces are essential for urban livability, promoting ecological health, recreation, and social well-being. With increasing urbanization, conserving and rejuvenating open spaces has become a critical urban planning concern.

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4.2 Open Spaces: Meaning and Significance

Open spaces are undeveloped lands within or around urban areas, reserved for greenery, recreation, or environmental services.

Significance includes:

·         Improves air quality and microclimate

·         Supports biodiversity and ecological balance

·         Encourages physical activity and mental well-being

·         Promotes community interaction and aesthetics

·         Reduces urban heat island effect

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4.3 Types of Open Space

·         Public Open Spaces: Parks, playgrounds, gardens, public plazas

·         Green Corridors: Tree-lined avenues, riverbanks, and urban forests

·         Institutional Open Spaces: School grounds, campus gardens

·         Buffer Zones: Green belts between industrial and residential zones

·         Vacant/Unused Land: With potential for transformation into recreational or green spaces

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4.4 Status of Open Spaces in Indian Cities

·         Indian cities have low per capita open space (often < 5 sq.m.), far below global standards (WHO recommends ≥9 sq.m.)

·         Issues include encroachments, illegal constructions, poor maintenance, and lack of community stewardship

·         Unequal distribution—more concentrated in affluent areas than slums

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4.5 Causes of Deterioration of Open Spaces

·         Rapid and unregulated urbanization

·         Real estate pressure and land use conversion

·         Weak enforcement of zoning and master plans

·         Neglect by local bodies and lack of funds

·         Vandalism, encroachment, and public apathy

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4.6 Parameters and Approaches for Revitalization of Open Spaces

Parameters:

·         Accessibility, safety, diversity of use, maintenance, ecological sustainability

Approaches:

·         Community participation in planning and upkeep

·         Urban green policy and legal protection

·         GIS mapping and open space audits

·         Public-private partnerships

·         Integrating green infrastructure in master planning

·         Design strategies: multifunctionality, inclusivity, and sustainability

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4.7 Let Us Sum Up

Open spaces serve multiple ecological, social, and psychological functions in cities. Their revitalization through participatory, innovative, and integrated approaches is essential for urban resilience and sustainability.

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4.8 Keywords

• Open Spaces: Unbuilt urban areas reserved for ecological or recreational purposes.
• Green Infrastructure: Network of natural and semi-natural spaces providing environmental benefits.
• Urban Heat Island: Increased temperature in cities due to dense built-up areas and lack of vegetation.
• Per Capita Open Space: Amount of open space available per person in a city.
• Public Realm: Areas like streets and parks accessible to all members of the public.
• Encroachment: Unauthorized occupation of public or open spaces.
• Revitalization: Restoration and improvement of deteriorated urban spaces for active use.
• Zoning Regulations: Planning tools to designate land for specific uses, including open spaces.
• Community Participation: Involvement of citizens in the planning, maintenance, and protection of open areas.
• Spatial Equity: Fair and inclusive access to open spaces across different urban sections.