Development Plan and Environment: A Case of Ahmedabad. Master of Planning Dissertation by - Rohit Nadkarni

30
th
June 2006

Development Plan and Environment:
A Case of Ahmedabad
(Final Report)

Guide:
Dr. Shrawan K. Acharya

Submitted by:
Rohit Nadkarni (EP 1004)

School of Planning
Centre for Environmental Planning & Technology University
K.L.Campus, University Road, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad 380 009
Tel: 26302470, Fax: 26302075 email: planning_04@yahoogroups.com
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to express my heartiest thanks to the persons without help of whom it would never
become possible to accomplish this work.

First of all, I take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to my guide Dr. Shrawan K.
Archarya, for the enthusiastic and motivating attitude and kind as well as keen interest he invoked
for the present study.

I am grateful to Dr. R. Parthasarathy, Chairman, Dissertation Committee and all faculty of School
of Planning, CEPT for giving valuable suggestion throughout the course of study.
I would also like to express my sincere thanks

I would also like to express my sincere thank to the following officials, offices and Individual for
helping me in their best possible capacities with access to information/data, which proved
invaluable in completing this study.
Mr. Hansal Shukla, Town Planner, AUDA.
Mr. H. N. Thakker, Deputy Town Planner, AUDA.
Mr. N. M. Baleva, City Planner, AMC.
Mr. R. J. Rawal, Planner, AMC.
The Entire staff of AMC and AUDA.

I am very much thankful to my friends and colleagues Amit Mistry, Abhinav Garg, Vibhu Jain, Uvika
Gupta, Vishal Dubey, Atul Bhalodia and Dharmesh Katalia for their timely help and encouragement
during the course of the study and the great batch of 2004 School of Planning for their friendship
and all the good times in the last two years and for all that I have learnt from them. I would also
specially like to thanks my junior batch of 2005 School of Planning for their constant
encouragement and moral support during the course of the study.

Finally, I would like to express sincere thanks to my parents for their moral support and more
importantly in terms of their consistent hard work and commitment to provide me every possible
support for my education so that I can complete my studies without much of constraints.

UNDERTAKING

I, Rohit R Nadkarni, the author of the thesis titled

Development Plan and Environment: A Case of Ahmedabad,

hereby declare that this is an independent work of mine, carried out towards partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Post-graduate Degree in Planning
with specialization in Environmental Planning at the School of Planning, Center for
Environmental Planning and Technology (C E P T University), Ahmedabad. This
work has not been submitted to any other institution for the award of any
Degree/Diploma.

Place: Ahmedabad Rohit R. Nadkarni
Date: 20th June 2006 Code No.: EP 1004

Development Plan and Environment: A Case of Ahmedabad

Rohit Nadkarni, EP1004, School of Planning, CEPT

1
Table of Content
Table of Content .................................................................................................................... 1
Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................ 4
List of Tables ......................................................................................................................... 5
List of Figures and Maps ...................................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary .............................................................................................................. 6
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 1 1. . I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n........................................................................................ 10
1.1.Introduction ................................................................................................................... 10
1.2.Rationale ........................................................................................................................ 10
1.3.Central Argument .......................................................................................................... 11
1.4.Research Questions...................................................................................................... 11
1.5.Aim and Objectives of the Study.................................................................................. 11
1.6.Study Area. .................................................................................................................... 11
1.7.Scope and Limitation.................................................................................................... 11
1.8.Methodology.................................................................................................................. 12
1.9.Chapter Outline ............................................................................................................. 15
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 2 2. . U Ur rb ba an n P Pl la an nn ni in ng g a an nd d E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t a a H Hi is st to or ri ic ca al l R Re ev vi ie ew w ................. 16
2.1.Defining Environment ................................................................................................... 16
2.2.Urban planning and environment- Acts and Regulations.......................................... 16
2.2.1.Indian Scenario ............................................................................................................... 17
2.3.Summary........................................................................................................................ 24
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 3 3. . P Pl la an nn ni in ng g f fo or r U Ur rb ba an n D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t .................................................... 27
3.1.Planning instruments/ Plans ........................................................................................ 27
3.1.1.Other Planning Instruments/ Plans.................................................................................. 27
3.2.Development Plan ......................................................................................................... 29
3.2.1.Environment in Development Plan .................................................................................. 29
3.2.2.Environmental Priority in Development Plan .................................................................. 30
3.3.Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).................................................................... 31
3.4.Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) .............................................................. 31
3.5.EIA vs. SEA.................................................................................................................... 32
3.6.Urban Planning in India and issues............................................................................. 33
3.6.1.Urban Planning in India ................................................................................................... 33
3.6.2.The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act 1992 (74th CAA) ............................................. 33
3.6.3.The Development Plan/ Master plan ............................................................................... 34


2
3.6.4.Environment Problem in Urban Planning ........................................................................ 36
3.6.5.New Approach in Urban Planning ................................................................................... 36
3.6.6.Cost of Planning.............................................................................................................. 37
3.7.Conclusion..................................................................................................................... 37
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 4 4. . E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t a an nd d U Ur rb ba an n D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t P Pl la an ns s.......................................... 38
4.1.Introduction ................................................................................................................... 38
4.2.London Plan 2004.......................................................................................................... 38
4.2.1.The Process for Preparing the Plan ................................................................................ 38
4.2.2.Time Influenced Change ................................................................................................. 39
4.2.3.Growth of London............................................................................................................ 40
4.2.4.Sustainable Development................................................................................................ 40
4.2.5.The Mayors Vision.......................................................................................................... 40
4.2.6.Vision to Objectives......................................................................................................... 40
4.2.7.Forces Driving Change in London................................................................................... 41
4.2.8.The Broad Sustainable Spatial Development Strategy.................................................... 41
4.2.9.Living in London .............................................................................................................. 41
4.2.10.Promoting Environmental Industries.............................................................................. 41
4.2.11.Sustainable Transport in London................................................................................... 42
4.2.12.Improving Londons Open Environment ........................................................................ 42
4.2.13.The Crosscutting Policies.............................................................................................. 42
4.2.14.Implementing the London Plan...................................................................................... 44
4.2.15.Monitoring and Review of this Plan ............................................................................... 45
4.2.16.Environmental Consideration in London Plan................................................................ 45
4.3.The Case of Master Plan Delhi 2021 ............................................................................ 46
4.3.1.The Process of Preparing The Master Plan..................................................................... 46
4.3.2.The Vision ....................................................................................................................... 48
4.3.3.Validity of Population Projections .................................................................................... 48
4.3.4.Accommodating Population for 2021............................................................................... 49
4.3.5.Hierarchy of Urban Development .................................................................................... 49
4.3.6.Redevelopment of Existing Urban Area .......................................................................... 49
4.3.7.Shelter ............................................................................................................................. 50
4.3.8.Trade and Commerce...................................................................................................... 50
4.3.9.Disaster and Hazards...................................................................................................... 50
4.3.10.Industry.......................................................................................................................... 50
4.3.11.Environment .................................................................................................................. 51
4.3.12.Natural Resource........................................................................................................... 51


3
4.3.13.Physical Infrastructure................................................................................................... 52
4.3.14.Monitoring Framework for Development........................................................................ 53
4.3.15.Review of the Previous Plan.......................................................................................... 53
4.3.16.Other Issues Relating to Delhi Master Plan................................................................... 54
4.3.17.Environmental Consideration in Delhi Master Plan 2021 .............................................. 54
4.4.Conclusion..................................................................................................................... 55
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 5 5. . D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t P Pl la an n a an nd d E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t C Ca as se e o of f A Ah hm me ed da ab ba ad d........ 58
5.1.Background ................................................................................................................... 58
5.2.Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976....................................... 58
5.2.1.Delineation of Development area .................................................................................... 58
5.2.2.Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority ..................................................................... 59
5.2.3.Content of a Draft Development Plan under Section 12 of the Act.................................. 60
5.2.4.The Development Plan Making Mechanism.................................................................... 61
5.3.Environment and Development Plan Ahmedabad...................................................... 63
5.3.1.Environmental Issues in Ahmedabad.............................................................................. 64
5.3.2.History of Development Plan in Ahmedabad................................................................... 65
5.3.3.Revised Draft Development Plan 1997 ........................................................................... 69
5.4.City Development Strategy (CDS) Ahmedabad........................................................... 85
5.5.City Development Plan (CDP) Ahmedabad ................................................................. 86
5.5.1.City Development Plan Preparation Process................................................................... 86
5.6.City Development Plan and City Development Strategy............................................ 87
5.7.Inferences and Findings ............................................................................................... 87
C Ch ha ap pt te er r 6 6. . C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s a an nd d P Pr ro op po os sa al l ............................................................... 94
6.1.Conclusions................................................................................................................... 94
6.2.Proposal ......................................................................................................................... 95
6.2.1.The Plan Preparation....................................................................................................... 95
6.2.2.The Development Plan Document and its Components.................................................. 97
6.2.3.Implementation, Monitoring and Review........................................................................ 100
References......................................................................................................................... 102
Appendix
Appendix A- Urban Planning and Environment- Acts and Regulations
Appendix B- The Constitution of India- Article 243
Appendix C- Content of London Plan 2004
Appendic D- Content of Delhi Master Plan 2021


4
Abbreviations
AMC Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation
AUDA Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority
CDP City Development Plan
CDS City Development Strategies
CPCB Central Pollution Control Board
DOE Department of Environment
EA Environmental Assessment
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EPA Environment Protection Act
FOP Financially Operational Plan
GDCR General Development Control Regulation
GHB Gujarat Housing Board
GLA Greater London Authority
HSDC Health Survey and Development Committee
JNURM JawaharIal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission
NCEPC National Committee on Environmental Planning and Coordination
NCEP National Committee on Environmental Planning
NEP National Environment Policy
NWMC National Waste Management Council
MPD-2021 Master Plan Delhi 2021
SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment
TPS Town Planning Scheme
UDPFI Urban Development Plans Formulation and Implementation
ULC Urban Land Ceiling Act
UN United Nation
WMCs Waste Minimization Circles
74th CAA 74th Constitution Amendment Act



5
List of Tables
Chapter 1
Table 1.1. Nature and Sources of information for the Study
Chapter 2
Table 2.1. Structure Basis of Environmental Laws
Table 2.2. Urban Planning and Environment India- The Phases
Table 2.3. Acts/ Regulation and Policies to be Incorporated in the Development Plan
Table 3.2. EIA vs. SEA
Chapter 4
Table 4.1. Plan Preparation
Table 4.2. Environmental Component in the Plan
Table 4.3. Implantation and Monitoring
Chapter 5
Table 5.1. Landcover Comparison
Table 5.2. Development plan in Ahmedabad till Date
Table 5.3. Existing and Proposed Land use of AUC area (Excluding AMC)
Table 5.4. Existing and Proposed Land use of AMC area
Table 5.5. Summary of the Preparation Process of the Development Plans
Table 5.6. Environmental Components in the Plans
Table 5.7. Implementation and Monitoring

List of Figures and Maps
Chapter 4
Figure 4.1. London plan preparation process
Figure 4.2. Main Sphere of Influences of the London Plan
Figure 4.3. Delhi master plan preparation process
Chapter 5
Image 5.1. Satellite Image Classifications
Map 5.1. AUDA Proposed Landuse 2011 Plan
Map 5.2. Growth Centers in Ahmedabad Urban Development Area
Figure 5.1. The Development Plan Making Mechanism
Figure 5.2. The draft development plan 1997 preparation process
Figure 5.3. Detail Methodology for Preparation of the Development Plan
Figure 5.4. Depletion of Water Table
Figure 5.5. City Development Plan Preparation Process
Chapter 5
Figure 6.1. Proposed Framework for Plan Preparation
Figure 6.2. Framework for the Development Plan Document
Figure 6.3. Framework for Implementation, Monitoring and Review



6
Executive Summary
Introduction
Ahmedabad is the largest city of Gujarat and the sixth largest of India. Gujarat became a state in
1960 and Ahmedabad was its capital. In 1970, the state capital was shifted to Ghandhinagar, but
Ahmedabad still retains the status of trade capital of Gujarat. During the course of time, to guide the
growth of this city, Development Plans were prepared under a legal backing of a Town Planning
and Urban Development Act of the state. It been almost two decade since the first Development
Plan was implemented and recently in 2003 the revised Development Plan of Ahmedabad for 2011
was approved by the State Government. Today Ahmedabad is counted amongst the most polluted
cities in India, due to this the Development Plans contribution towards the city environment is
becoming a concern. Hence this study is an attempt to understand the overall Development Plan
process and the extent of environmental consideration in the Development Plan. It also tries to look
at the Development Plans/ Master Plans of cities in other geographical locations and extend of
environmental consideration in those plans e.g. London and Delhi. Through this process identify
the lacuna in the present development planning process of Ahmedabad and suggest changes to
ensure a better incorporation of environment and hence improving the overall environment of the
City.
Rationale
A Development Plan should address sustainable development at the local level while reflecting
state, national and international goals. Decisions should be based on the best possible scientific
information and analysis of risks, in order to prevent or reduce the likely significant impact of plan
on the environment. But this is not the case in reality, most of the development only mention
environment in their aim, scientific studies are also conducted to some extent, but the proposal is
based primarily on the basis of economic criteria. Environment consideration only occurs at project
level where E.I.A has to be conducted.
E.I.A of projects has been criticized on the ground, that because it is a response to a specific
development proposal, it may not address some wider or more fundamental considerations such as
alternative solutions or strategic location issues. Neither can it fully appraise the cumulative impact
of number of proposals, especially when they are individually too small. Increasing sensitivity
towards environmental issues in a Development Plan during the planning stage can help to address
these matters by considering alternative strategies or land uses and by considering the overall
environment effects of implementing plan. There is a need for clarity at preparation stage showing
how environmental issues have been taken into account and hence reduce the strategic


7
environmental effects and therefore there is a need to evolve a new framework that increases the
environmental credentials and ensures an environmentally sensitive Development Plan.
Methodology
The methodological structure was worked out in the following way-

Conclusions
Over time with the increasing environmental problem in cities, various attempts were made to
protect and prevent environmental deterioration. In India, today there are about 200 legislation,
policies and regulation to protect environment and many more yet to come. Even after existence of
all these planning and protective laws, the environment of cities in India is deteriorating. City like
Ahmedabad have been preparing Development Plan for past two decades and hence the
Development Plans contribution towards its environment is becoming a concern. From the study it
Initial Literature Review
Formulation of the study- Development Plan and Environment: A case of Ahmedabad
Defining Aim and Objective
Objective1 - Study the
history of urban planning
and environment
Objective 2- identify
different available planning
instrument and the evolving
issue in urban planning
Objective 3- Understand the
level of environmental
incorporation in the statutory
plan of other influential cities
Objective4 -Understand to what extent and how effectively
the existing environmental issues and concerns are
addressed in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad
Aim- Develop a framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive Development Plan, for the
case of Ahmedabad
Detail Literature Review
Issues
London Plan
Delhi Master Plan
Acts, Regulation and
Policies to be incorporated
in the Development Plan to
protect Environment
Environmental Consideration


8
is unmistakably evident that lack of environmental consideration in the statutory Development Plan
is partly responsible for the environmental deterioration in the Ahmedabad.
The London Plan and Delhi Master Plan have tried their best to incorporate their respective
environmental issues in the Plan, while the Development Plan of Ahmedabad only talks about the
environment as a part of its aim, but this aim doesnt reflect much in the Development Plan; apart to
it concern about air and water pollution. Around the globe the environmental emphasis has
changed because of the realization that environmental considerations should not be limited to
concerns about just pollution control but should be more positive in aiming to create more
comfortable, pleasant and stimulating surroundings natural and manmade environments.
All the Plans considered for the study were prepared in different point of time, the Ahmedabad
Development Plan was prepared in 1997, London Plan in 2004 and Delhi Master Plan in 2005,
hence it is not actually desirable to compare London Plan and Delhi Plan with Ahmedabad
Development Plan. But after comparing the last two Development Plans of Ahmedabad (1981 and
1997), it can be concluded that the attitude towards environment in Ahmedabad have not changed
for more than a decade. Planning is a continuous process, with time new issues emerge and new
legislations are enacted to protect environment. The Development Plan is a long term plan and
hence it cant afford to be static and rigid, it needs to be continues process where there should be
timely incorporation of the emerging issues and the new legislations in the Development Plan.
The development planning process of Ahmedabad needs to be more democratic, like the case of
London Plan. Ahmedabad Development Plan needs to incorporate the public consultancy
mechanism before preparing the Plan. The public consultancy will help the development authority
to make the whole planning process more participatory and will help to understand the citizens
aspiration towards the city. Through the consultancy process a vision of the city can be proposed
with public and authorities co-operation. Apart from this, the duration two month for public
inspection of the Development Plan is inadequate to serve the purpose within the mention time,
while the citizens of London and Delhi get a period of 3 month for public inspection, in order to raise
objection and suggest changes.
The content of the Draft Development Plan in town planning act needs to be review since there are
certain changes required in it. The environmental components should be given more importance in
the content, which will help to preserve and protect the environment of the area. Although a
significant amount of time and resource are spent, AUDA still does not have a comprehensive, up
to-date database, environmental components are not addressed explicitly and study maps do not
cover all ecological characteristics. The whole planning process is affected due to lack of up-to-date


9
base maps, and limitations of data create difficulties in quantifying and assessing the existing
situation. Hence there is a need to build a good accurate and reliable data base for the city. Apart
from building good accurate database and maps, there is also a need to address the current
environmental issues in the Development Plan. This would help in making the Development Plan
more sensitive towards the environment and will protect and enhance the environment of the
Ahmedabad.
Preparing an environmental sensitive Development Plan is the first step, but there is also required
that the Development Plan is properly implemented within the plan period. Like the areas proposed
to be developed as open space in the Development Plan 1987 have not been implemented and
thus have now been encroached upon by unauthorized development often leading to uncontrolled
and haphazard development. This is due to either lack of will shown by the authority to implement
the plan or due to financial constrain. There is a need to set up a monitoring unit to monitor both the
implementation of the plan and the functioning of the authority and publishes a performance review,
which would help in making timely adjustment in the plan. There are even problems in caused due
to delay in sanctioned Development Plan/ town planning schemes by government. Like the
Development Plan prepared in 1997 was sanctioned in May 2002. Sanctioning of the Plan is a
political issue and looking at the present political system it a difficult proposition to expect any
speedy sanction.
Development Plan is an important mechanism for development of the urban areas, but in real life
development is taking place on it own without any concern for the plan. Hence the Development
Plan remains a costly piece of document which doesnt consider environment and the need of the
area and the people. Hence present environmental problem of Ahmedabad is partly due to lacuna
in the development planning system. Based on the lacunas identified in the study, an attempt is
made to prepare a framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive Development Plan.



10
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I In nt tr ro od du uc ct ti io on n
1.1. Introduction
The dissertation looks at Development Plan and the development planning process of Ahmedabad
and tries to understand the extent of environmental consideration in it. A Development Plan
envisages the entire town/urban area as a single unit. Development Plan is necessary to achieve
overall development of the town/urban area in an integrated and co-ordinated manner. The
development or expansion of a town takes along time, and therefore the development is required to
be regulated in time on the basis of a plan. A Development Plan is thus a blue print of the various
proposals that are intended to improve the existing conditions and to regulate the future growth of
the town in a coordinated manner.
1960 and Ahmedabad was its capital. In 1970, the state capital was shifted to Ghandhinagar, but
Ahmedabad still retains the status of trade capital of Gujarat. During the course of time, to guide the
growth of this city, Development Plans were prepared under a legal backing of a town planning and
urban development act of the state. It been almost two decade since the first Development Plan
was implemented and recently in 2003 the revised Development Plan of Ahmedabad was approved
by the state Government. Today Ahmedabad is counted amongst the most polluted cities in India;
due to this the Development Plans contribution towards the city environment is becoming a
concern. Hence this study is an attempt to understand the overall Development Plan process and
the extent of environmental consideration in it. It also tries to look at the Development Plans/
Master Plans of cities in other geographical locations and extend of environmental consideration in
those plans e.g. London and Delhi. Through this process identify the lacuna in the present
development planning process of Ahmedabad and suggest changes to ensure a better
incorporation of environment and hence improving the overall environment of the City.
1.2. Rationale
A Development Plan should address sustainable development at the local level while reflecting
state, national and international goals. Decisions should be based on the best possible scientific
information and analysis of risks, in order to prevent or reduce the likely significant impact of plan
on the environment. But this is not the case in reality, most of the development only mention
environment in their aim, scientific studies are also conducted to some extent, but the proposal is
based primarily on the basis of economic criteria. Environment consideration only occurs at project
level where E.I.A has to be conducted. If one goes through E.I.A Notification 15
th
September 2005 it
covers entire range of projects which land use decision are taken at Development planning stage.
E.I.A of projects has been criticized on the ground, that because it is a response to a specific
development proposal, it may not address some wider or more fundamental considerations such as
alternative solutions or strategic location issues. Neither can it fully appraise the cumulative impact
of number of proposals, especially when they are individually too small. Increasing sensitivity
towards environmental issues in a Development Plan during the planning stage can help to address
these matters by considering alternative strategies or land uses and by considering the overall
environment effects of implementing plan. Therefore there is a need for clarity at preparation stage
showing how environmental issues have been taken into account and hence reduce the strategic
environmental effects. Projects E.I.A should be seen as a positive contribution to the planning
process and the findings can be feed into the next review of the Development Plan provided the
results are well founded. Therefore there is a need to evolve a new framework that increases the
environmental credentials and ensures an environmentally sensitive Development Plan.


11
1.3. Central Argument
The present deterioration of the city environment in Ahmedabad is due to lack of environmental
consideration in the statutory Development Plan prepared so far.
1.4. Research Questions
1. What is the history of urban planning and environment in India and what are the important
act and regulation for protecting the environment?
2. What are the urban planning instruments available today and what are the evolving issues
in development planning exercise
3. What environmental considerations are made in statutory city plan prepared by cities in
different geographical area?
4. To what extent is environment considered in Ahmedabad Development Plan?
5. What are the issues and environment component that need to be considered in a
Development Plan to make it more sensitive towards environment?
1.5. Aim and Objectives of the Study
Aim of the study- To develop a framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive
Development Plan, for the case of Ahmedabad.
Objective of the study
In order to achieve the aim following objective should be achieved-
1. Study the history of urban planning and Environment in India, and to identify important acts
and legislation for protection of environment.
2. To identify the different available instrument for urban planning and to understand the
evolving issues in development planning exercise.
3. To understand the extent/ level of environmental incorporation in statutory Development /
Master Plans of other influential cities in different geographical areas.
4. Understand to what extent and how effectively the existing environmental issues or
concerns have been addressed in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad and understand
its implementation mechanism.
1.6. Study Area.
Ahmedabad, the biggest City of Gujarat, lies on 23
0
1' North Latitude and 72
0
37' East Longitude on
the bank of River of Sabarmati. It is one of the most rapidly growing urban centre of Gujarat and
being the trade capital it has a lot of industrial development within and around it. Along with the
industrial development and the increasing population load on the city, the environment of the city
has deteriorated. Till date Ahmedabad urban authority have prepared two Development Plans, the
present system of preparing the Development Plan needs revival and there is a need of
incorporating environmental consideration to prevent the present deterioration and to further
sensitize the development planning process and minimize the environmental damage. Therefore
considering the case of Ahmedabad the study tries to develop a framework for preparing an
environmentally sensitive Development Plan.
1.7. Scope and limitation
A Development Plan is prepared under a legal backing of a town planning act of the state. So
considering the state of Gujarat and by the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act,
1976, the environmental consideration in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad is assessed. This
work is based on review of Development Plan documents of Ahmedabad and other related


12
literature. The statutory city plan of influential cities in different geographical location -like Delhi
(capital city of India) and London (A lot of Indian town planning act is based on British acts) will be
considered for understanding the Environment status in their statutory city plans. The study focuses
on developing a Framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive Development Plan.
To further strengthen the study, it would have been desirable to take up more case studies, but due
to time limitation and availability of data/ literature only Delhi and London Development/ Master
Plan were taken up for the purpose of the study.
1.8. Methodology
The methodological structure was worked out in the following way-
Stage 1. Formulation of the project.
Formulation
Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976 provides the legal mechanism for
preparing the Development Plan for the city of Ahmedabad. After reviews this act the certain
shortfalls in the Content of a draft Development Plan under section 12 of the act were observed.
Subsequently the Revised Draft Development Plan of AUDA -2011 was reviewed initially. The
development area only talks about the environment as a part of its aim, but this aim doesnt reflect
much in the Development Plan; apart to it concern about air and water pollution. This reflects on
part of the concern authority that environment comes only while preparing the aim, but when it
comes to action, that is through proposal environment losses it importance. In the Development
Plan environment is just another popular word. Based on the initial analysis of the Ahmedabad
Development Plan and after going thought the Development Plans of European counties (London,
Scotland etc) which consider environment as an important component of the plan, a need was felt
for sensitizing the Development Plan of Ahmedabad towards environment and hence help in
reducing the environmental damage. Based on this the aim and objectives of the study was
formulated.

Research approach
Step 1
After the initial literature review of the available Ahmedabad Development Plans and related
documents, it was realized that there is a need for preparing a comprehensive history of the urban
planning and environment in India. Based on the urban planning and environment history the cities
for case studies were identified and the present mechanism provided by legislation and judiciary for
environmental protection were listed, in order to incorporate it in the Development Plan.
Step 2
With time the urban planning process have gone through various changes, cities around the world
have innovated new instruments for planning urban development. The available development
planning instruments were identified and the issues related to these instruments and urban
planning was highlighted.

Step 3
A detail critical analysis of the city plans in different geographical area was conducted and the
environmental issues incorporated and their attitude towards environment was identified. A detail
critical review of the Development Plan of Ahmedabad was also conducted in order to access to
what extent and how effectively the existing environmental issues or concerns have been
addressed in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad. Along with identification of the environmental
issues related to the Development Plan, the flaws in the implementation and monitoring mechanism
were identified.



13
Step 4
After identifying the issues and concerns, based on the lessons form the case study, a framework
for sensitizing the Development Plan towards environment will be evolved.

Stage 2. Nature and Sources of Information
Table 1.1. Nature and Sources of information for the Study
Task Data required Data source
Build a comprehensive history of
urban planning and environment.
Identify influences in Indian
planning
To identify important act for
protection of environment
Identification of planning
instruments in urban planning
Understand the evolving issues in
development planning exercise
Identification of suitable Cases
Critical review of the case area
statutory city plan.
the extent of environmental
consideration
Discussions with the concerned
authority
Critical review of all the
development plan document and
Town planning Act.
Objective-1.Study the history of urban planning and Environment in India, and to identify important acts
and legislation for protection of environment.
Objective-2.To identify the different available instrument for urban planning and to understand the
evolving issues in development planning exercise.
Developments Plans of
Ahmedabad published. Review in
different magazines. Discussions
with AUDA / AMC - the agencies
involved in preparation of
Development Plan till date.
acts, rules, events, regulation,
legislation relating to environment
and urban planning -with year and
their implication.
Multiple sources from books on
urban planning on India and world/
books on environmental acts and
events/ internet sources.
Detail about the instruments, their
use, status and their issues.
multiple sources from books,
magazines and Internet sites.
Objective-3. To understand the extent/ level of environmental incorporation in statutory Development /
Master Plans of other influential cities in different geographical areas.
Objective-4. Understand to what extent and how effectively the existing environmental issues or concerns
have been addressed in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad and understand its implementation
mechanism.
Latest City Development Plan/
master plan of the case area, the
relevant town planning act/
development act.
Published plans and Act and
Internet sites.
Ahmedabad Development Plan
prepared till date. Their preparation
process and implementation
process. Problems associated with
planning and implementation

Stage 3. Deriving conclusion and Proposals
After critical review of all the city Development Plans and identifying of all the environment
components which needs consideration. All the important issues will be highlighted and these
issues will be considered while preparing the framework for sensitizing the Development Plan of
Ahmedabad.



14
Figure 1.1 Structure of the Study

Initial Literature Review
Formulation of the study-
Development Plan and Environment: A case of Ahmedabad
Defining Aim and Objective
Objective1 - Study the
history of urban planning
and environment
Objective 2- identify
different available
planning instrument and
the evolving issue in
urban planning
Objective 3- Understand
the level of environmental
incorporation in the
statutory plan of other
influential cities
Objective4 -Understand to what extent and how
effectively the existing environmental issues and
concerns are addressed in the Development Plan of
Ahmedabad
Aim- Develop a framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive Development Plan,
for the case of Ahmedabad
Detail Literature Review
Issues
London Plan
Delhi Master Plan
Acts, Regulation and
Policies to be
incorporated in the
Development Plan to
protect Environment
Environmental Consideration


15
1.9. Chapter Outline
The study Development Plan and Environment: a case of Ahmedabad. It is set out in six chapters.
Chapter 1 Introduction set out the introduction of the study, rationale for the study, aim and
objectives and scope and limitation of the study. It also describes the methodology involved in the
study.

Chapter 2- Urban Planning and Environment a Historical Review it describes the urban planning
and environmental history of India. The chapter identifies the important influences in urban planning
and environment and identifies important acts, regulation and policies to be incorporated in the
Development Plan.

Chapter 3- Planning for Urban Development it identifies the different planning instrument / plans
available for urban planning and highlight the importance of the Development Plan and the need for
environmental incorporation in the plan. The chapter also describes the urban planning system in
India and discusses the issues involved in development planning.

Chapter 4- Environment and Urban Development Plans it deal with the assessing the level of
environmental incorporation in the statutory urban plans, of influential cities London and Delhi.

Chapter 5- Development Plan and Environment- case of Ahmedabad deal with the entire
development planning process of Ahmedabad, from preparation to implementation and monitoring.
Its tries to assess the level of environmental consideration in the Development Plan of Ahmedabad.

Chapter 6- Conclusions and Proposal based on the finding of the study, a framework is derived
for preparing an environmental sensitive Development Plan for Ahmedabad.



16
C
C
h
h
a
a
p
p
t
t
e
e
r
r
2
2
.
.
U Ur rb ba an n P Pl la an nn ni in ng g a an nd d
E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t a a H Hi is st to or ri ic ca al l R Re ev vi ie ew w
2.1. Defining Environment
As the well known geographer Detwyler puts it- Environment is an aggregate of external conditions
that influences the life of an individual or population (Naik Mehul 1998).

MacGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Environment Science defines it as follows Environment is the
sum total of all conditions and influences that affect the development and life of Organism.

Environment- the term environment has been derived from the term Environ, which means to
surround, French term Environner, Latin in-viron. Thus, etymologically environment means
surrounding conditions, circumstances effecting peoples life.
1

According to Gilpin- Environment, from a scientific point of view, it is taken to mean everything that
is physical external to the organism; organisms of course include human beings.
2

Justice P.N. Bhagwati (1991), has made the term Environment more clear and simple to
understand. He opines that the term refers to the conditions within and around an organism, which
affect the behavior, growth and development or life processes, directly or indirectly. It includes the
conditions with which the organism interacts.
3

The National Environment Protection Act, 1969 of U.S.A. and the Pollution Control Act, 1974 of the
U.K, though were the earliest and comprehensive environment enactments, but it did not define the
technical terms. The Environmental Protection Act (EPA),1986 of India was the first to define the
technical terms and it defines Environment- according to Section 2(a) of E.P.A, environment (a)
includes water air and land and (b) the interrelationship which exists among and between (i) water
(ii) air (iii) Land (iv) Human beings (v) living creatures (vi) plants (vii) micro organism (viii) property.
This EPA definition embraces all biotic and a biotic components of environment, but there is a
criticism that it has failed to comprehend the modern concept of environment pollution and factors
which lead to the imbalance in ecosystem.

According to National Environment Policy 2004 of India Environment comprises of all entities,
natural or manmade, external to oneself, which provide value, now or perhaps in the future, to
humankind. Environmental concerns relate to their degradation through actions of humans.
2.2. Urban planning and environment- Acts and Regulations
During the 18
th
and 19
th
century landscape of England was reshaped by the industrial revolution
and Industrialization was accompanied by rapid urbanization. Though towns and cities existed
since dawn of the civilization, their rapid growth started only after the industrial revolution. The
theories and techniques adopted for urban planning underwent radical changes with the advent of
the machine and the coming in of the automobile on the urban scene. As the problems became

1
Collins, P.H. (1990), Dictionary of Ecology and the Environment, 62
2
Gilpin, A. (Undated), Dictionary of Environmental terms, 51, Queensland Univ. Press.
3
Justice Bhagwati, P.N. (1991), The Crucial Conditions, in Survey of the Environment, p. 165, The Hindu.


17
acute, remedies were searched for and new Acts, new Amendments and new legislation and new
organizational pattern began to appear to ensure a better environment.
2.2.1. Indian Scenario
In case of India, based on various available secondary sources, the history of urban planning and
Environment was constructed. The history of urban planning and environment of India can be
broadly divided in two phases pre-independence and post independence. In fact, the country has
had a long history of environmentalism with the passage and codification of acts started from 1853
during the British rule. The historical time-line of urban planning and environment constructed for
India, based on the available secondary sources span around a 153 years till date. But even before
1853, there were cities built based on planning principle like the earliest evidence of planning in
Indian sub-continent was Indus valley civilization, which advanced by 2500 B.C. these cities were
laid out according to some pre-conceived plans, with high standards of public health. The people of
Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa took pains to plan baths, lavatories, drains and fresh water tanks. This
reflected their concerns for community sanitation and health (TCPO, 1996). But the base for
present planning and environment laws/Acts to protect and prevent the environmental deterioration
started in 1853 with The Shore Nuisance (Bombay and Kolaba) Act.
According to Shastri, S. (2002), the structure of Environmental law in India can be divided into two
broad categories that are protective laws and planning laws and this can be further divided as given
below in table 2.1. For the purpose of the study, 153 years of planning and environment evolution in
India is divided into 4 phases as given below in table 2.2.

Source- Shastri, S. (2002)

2.2.1.1. Pre-Independence
The Early Years (1853-1897)
Water
Water was one of the earliest elements of nature which was of high concern to the people right
from start, during the early years the first act to be amended was shore nuisance (Bombay and
1853-1897 The Early Years
1898-1946 City Improvement Efforts
1947-1969 Start of Enviornmentalism
1970-2006 The Era of Enviornment
Y
E
A
R
Urban Planning and Environment -the Phases
Pre -
Independence
Post -
Independence
For Human biengs
For Non-Human
being For Production For Distribution
1. Water 1. wildlife 1. Land Utilization 1. Land ceiling
2. Air 2. Marine life 2. Irrigation 2. Town planning
3. Noise 3. Flora 3. Industry 3. slums
4. Nuclear 4. Mining 4. housing
5. Radiation 5. Grazing land 5. Recreational area
6. Toxic subsatnces 6.Catchment area 6. Parks
7. Waste land 7. Sanctuaries
8. Estuaries 8. Biosphere
Structural basis of environmental laws
Protective Laws Planning Laws
Table 2.1. Structure Basis of Environmental Laws
Table 2.2. Urban Planning and Environment India- The Phases


18
Kolaba) act of 1853 concerning water pollution in India, which authorized the collector of land
revenue in Bombay to order removal of any nuisance below the high - water mark in Bombay
harbors. This act was followed by other acts related to water like the Bombay Irrigation Act 1860
and North India Canal and Drainage Act 1873. The Indian Penal Code, passed in 1860 also had
provision of penalizing person(s) responsible for causing defilement of water of a public spring or
reservoir with imprisonment or fines. Later to follow was the Indian Easements Act 1882 which
allowed private rights to use a resource that is, groundwater, by viewing it as an attachment to the
land. It states that all surface water belongs to the state and is a state property and protects riparian
owners against unreasonable pollution by upstream users. Apart from all this there were also
establishment of the Code of Criminal Procedure 1986, where sec 133 and 144 provide for removal
of public nuisance.

The Cities
In 1864 looking at the sanitary condition of the cities the first sanitary commissions in 1864 was
appointment for three presidencies of Bengal, Bombay and madras, under direction of the royal
sanitary commission appointed by British Parliament in 1859. After more than a decade later the
first municipal act was enacted in Bombay, known as Bombay Municipal Act 1872 and hence the
duties of the Corporation were set out. The next important event was enactment of the Land
Acquisition Act 1894; the act is valid till date and has bearing on major projects in city development.
This act was enacted for the purpose of compulsorily acquisition of land required for public purpose
or for purpose of companies.

City Improvement Efforts (1898-1946)
City Improvement and Town Planning Act
Cities were major environmental nuisance, urbanization leading to major environmental stress. This
led to the passing of the city improvement trust and town planning acts in India. The first city
improvement trust was established in Bombay in 1898, followed by Mysore in 1903, Calcutta in
1911and Hyderabad in 1912. In 1933 Bombay improvement act was merged with Bombay
Municipal Corporation. This process of constituting an improvement trust in different places in India
continued till 1946.
In India, the first efforts for planned growth was built into municipal acts through town planning
schemes and which aimed at slum removal, providing workers housing, circulation improvements
and improving sanitation. Hence State town planning acts were introduced in Bombay presidency
(1913), Madras presidency (1920) and the ex-princely state of Hyderabad and Mysore in about the
same period, this acts were enacted on the lines of the British Housing and Town Planning Act
1909. The end product of this Acts were largely land-use plans and had features like irrational land
use disposition, inefficient land development and utilization, leading to large scale physical
deterioration. The problems arising out of such physical structures were lack of a dispersed pattern
of work centers, sprawling residential dormitories, entailing long distance travel, inefficient transport
system and services.
4

In between during 1915 Patric Geddes visited India, Geddes unsparingly explained that survey was
more important than good surface planning. The planner must consider the citizen's potential and
evolution within his environment. Later, in 1931 New Delhi, the new capital of India was planned
and design by Edward Lutyens, based on modern town planning principles.

4
TCPO. (1996), Urban and regional planning and development in India, Ministry of urban affairs and employment, New
Delhi.


19
Environment and Planning
The first international environment conference was held in London 1900 and the topic for
discussion was protection of wildlife of Africa. Later on in 1927 Indian Forest Act, one of the many
surviving colonial statutes was enacted to consolidate the law related to forest, the transit of forest
produce, and the duty livable on timber and other forest produce, at this early stage, awareness of
mans destructive tendencies were emerging.
The first major discussion on environment and planning in India was in 1946 where Health Survey
and Development Committee (HSDC) discussed several aspects of town planning, while dealing
with problems of improving mans physical environment.
2.2.1.2. Post- Independence
Start of Environmentalism (1947-1969)
Environment
Environmental issues which have been for a long time part of Indian thought and social process,
and were reflected in the constitution of the republic of Indian adopted in 1950. But the start of
modern environmentalism started in 1962, where the American environmental moments dates its
beginning to Rachel Carsons book on pesticide pollution Silent Spring. Silent Spring is also
known as the bible and founding event of the modern environmentalism. But in the international
scenario apart from water and air the issue of solid waste was first dealt in U.S.A. in 1965 by
enacting the Solid Waste Disposal Act. And U.S. Congress financing a statewide survey of dumps
and landfills to better understand the scope of waste disposal problems in the U.S. The Act
provides more of waste management safeguards. At the end of this era in 1969, the National
Environment Protection Act, U.S.A. was enacted, mandating all federal agencies and departments
to consider and assess the environmental effects of proposals for legislation and other major
projects.

Town Planning Act and Cities
The City Improvement Efforts during 1898 to 1946 still had its effects after independence in India.
In 1950 the Madras City Improvement Trust Act followed by the Hyderabad City Improvement Act
were enacted. Apart from these a lot of town planning act come into existence like the West Bengal
Land Development and Planning Act 1948, followed by the Bombay Provincial Municipal
Corporation Act 1949, The Orissa Town Planning and Improvement Act 1956 and the Karnataka
Town and Country Planning Act 1961 amended in 1965. All these acts provided provision for
Planning Authorities at City and Town level for preparation of Development Plan and enforcing it.
In 1954 Bombay Town Planning Act came into being, incorporated the provisions of Bombay Town
Planning Act, 1913, and in addition made it obligatory on every local authority (barring village
panchayats) to prepare a Development Plan for the entire area within its jurisdiction which came
into force in 1957. All These Acts are based on the model Urban and Regional Planning
Development Act as proposed by the central government (TCPO, 1996).
Comprehensive urban and regional planning in India was however introduced only after
independence in Delhi (1957). The Delhi development act was enacted and the first Master Plan of
Delhi was prepared in 1964. This was nearly co-terminus with the central slum improvement act
(1956) as opposed to slum clearance. Up to the second five year plan (ending in 1960) the
preparation of urban land use plans become a priority so as to ensure planned growth due to rapid
urban population increase. During 1966, the Maharashtra Urban and Regional Planning Act was
enacted which had provision to prepare regional plans, Development Plans and town planning
schemes under the provisions of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act.
In 1958 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Act was enacted to protect and preserve ancient
monuments and archeological sites. In case of Gujarat the first Act was enacted in 1961, which was


20
the Gujarat Panchayats Act, this act enables the district Panchayats to make bye-laws for
purification and protection and protection from pollution of sources of water and for other connected
matters. In 1963 Fazlore Rehman committee on urban land policy was formed to examine the
problems of urban land and suggest policy measures on the subject.

Industries and Environment
The first Act regarding Industries was 1948 -The Factories Act, which was the first to express
concern for the working environment of the workers. The 1987 amendment to the factories act
empowers the state to appoints site appraisal committees to advice on initial location of factories
using hazardous process and deal with disposal of water effluents. In 1951 Industries
(Development and Regulation) Act was enacted this Act provided for the development and
regulation of certain industries.

The Era of Environment (1970-2006)
The First Institutions to Protect Environment
1970 marks the starting point in Indian environmental history as the starting point in environmental
era with the Establishment of The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board the first state pollution
control board in India to begin operating.
The year 1972 was a landmark in the history of environmental management in India. Prior to 1972,
environmental issues such as sewage disposal, sanitation and public health were dealt with
independently by the different ministries without any co-ordination or realization of the
interdependence of the issues. In February 1972, a National Committee on Environmental Planning
and Coordination (NCEPC) was set up in the Department of Science and Technology. NCEPC
functioned as an apex advisory body in all matters relating to environmental protection and
improvement. However due to bureaucratic problems, that NCEPC faced in coordination with the
Department of Science and Technology and In 1980 The Tiwari committee was setup to suggest
the administrative and legislative measures that ought to be taken for the protection of the
environment. This committee gave five suggestions- 1) land and water management 2) Natural
living resource 3) Environmental pollution and E.I.A 4) Human settlements 5) Environmental
education and awareness. Based on recommendation of the Tiwari Committee NCEPC was
replaced by a National Committee on Environmental Planning (NCEP) 1981.

The International Event - Stockholm Conference
The watershed event in the environmental movement was the Stockholm Conference on Human
Environment (the Magna Carta on human environment) in June, 1972. The conference made it
apparent to all attendees that each nation needed to adopt comprehensive legislation addressing
health and safety issues for people, flora and fauna. The United Nations, organizers of the
conference, requested each participant to provide a country report. The findings by the Indian
conferees shocked even the most pro-development advocates in India. Stockholm served as the
genesis for the series of environmental measures India passed in the years to come. It has also
been suggested that international events such as Stockholm provided the cover Indian officials
needed to implement national environment policy without the vitriolic backlash normally expected
from industry (Shaman, 1996). Stockholm is also known for Indira Gandhi speech where she
quoted "Poverty is the greatest polluter". Since than, Indian has participated in the international
conferences and have been signatory to it declaration. Hence as a requirement, a lot of Acts and
legislation were amended to protect, avoid violation and ensure a better environment.

Acts for Protection of Environment
In year as a requirement of the Stockholm conference 1972 India amended the first Indian Wildlife
(Protection) Act 1972, which provides for the protection of birds and animals and for all matters that


21
are connected to it whether it be their habitat or the waterhole or the forests that sustain them. In
1972, after a decade later due to the American environmental moments dates its beginning to
Rachel Carsons book on pesticide pollution Silent Spring 1962. America amended the Pesticide
Control Act, U.S.A, 1972, for control of pesticides for reduction of unreasonable risks to man and
the environment. This was followed by the 1974 Toxic substance control act U.S.A. in the same
year U.K. enacted Pollution Control Act U.K. 1974, which provides various regulatory and control
measure to wastes disposal. A similar concern for waste started in India, in 1975 when a High
powered committee on urban waste was by Government for review of problems of urban waste in
India. This committee, in its report made 76 recommendations, covering eight important areas of
waste management.
The burgeoning awareness of the 1970s did not mark the first efforts by India on the environment.
As early as 1962, however, the Ministry of Health had begun to address water pollution issues by
appointing a study committee. The committee made recommendations for both central and state
level action. Jurisdictional questions remained unsolved between the states and central
government, but by 1965 a draft bill was finally being circulated which allowed the states to pass
resolutions authorizing Parliament to enact legislation on their behalves. By 1969, a bill, the
Prevention of Water Pollution, had been introduced. Ultimately in 1974 after the Stockholm
conference 1972, a modified version, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, passed in
1974, this was mainly passed for restoration and maintenance of wholesomeness and cleanliness
in our national aquatic resources. The Water Act also established the Pollution Control Boards at
central government and state government levels, institutionalizing a regulatory agency for
controlling water pollution marked the first true commitment on the issue by the Indian Parliament.
Hence 1974 The Gujarat Pollution Control Board established, the act provided for prevention and
control of water pollution and the maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of water. In 1977 The
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, which was amended in 1992 provided for the
levy and collection of Cess or fees on water consuming industries and local authorities. In order to
provide the pollution control boards resources for equipment and technical personnel and to prompt
water conservation by recycling.
In the aftermath of the Water Act, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi moved to enact a series of
environmental measures. The Department of Environment (DOE), created in 1980, performed an
oversight role for the central government. DOE did environmental appraisals of development
projects, monitored air and water quality, established an environmental information system,
promoted research, and coordinated activities between federal, state and local governments. DOE
was criticized, however, by environmental groups who recognized that with its small political and
financial base the agency was weak and symbolic in nature. Environmentalists recognized quickly
that DOE would essentially serve as an advisory body with few enforcement powers (Shaman,
1996).
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1981 was the next area of focus following the
passage of the Water Act. The legislation designated the central board and state boards, which
governed water pollution duties, to also be empowered with the same authority and administrative
functions for the Air Act. In essentially all respects, the functions and authorizations exercised by
central and state officials in the Water Act remain the same. The Central Board sets national
ambient air standards. In addition, the state boards have the power to petition local magistrates to
restrain polluters from exceeding specified standards. This legislation, however, does not
supersede provisions of an earlier law, the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which addressed radioactive
air pollution.

The Constitution
Although state governments have clearly delineated lines of authority and jurisdiction, Article 253 of
the Constitution provides the central government with sweeping powers to implement laws for any


22
part of India with regard to treaties made with another country or decisions made by an
international body
In 1974 the 42nd amendment to the Constitution was brought and inserted two new Articles: Art.48-
A and Art.51-A(g). The former, under Directive Principles of State Policy, makes it the responsibility
of the State Government to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and
wildlife of the country. The latter, under Fundamental Duties, makes it the fundamental duty of
every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and
wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures. The 42nd amendment adopted in 1976 and
went into effect January 3, 1977. Apart from this the language of the Directive Principles of State
Policy (Article 47) requires not only a protectionist stance by the state, but also compels the state to
seek the improvement of polluted environments.

The Town Planning Efforts
With the increasing trend of urbanization, leading to development progressing along the periphery
and outside the limits of local authority, led to enactment of the Andhra Pradesh Urban Area
(development) Act in 1975, followed by The Bangalore Development Authority Act, The Karnataka
Improvement Boards Act and the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act 1976 (the
Gujarat town planning act 1976 came into force in 1978). These Acts made provision for delineation
of development area for the city, incorporating the peripheral growth area around the city beyond
the limits of local authority. These Acts also led to constitution of urban development authority for
such area for its proper development. In the same year the 1976 Urban Land (Ceiling and
Regulation) Act was amended to create land for urban development.

Disaster and Movements
In 1979, the Three miles island U.S.A nuclear power plants disaster was an important event that
awakened the world towards the need to deal with such disaster. In India, in 1979 a new movement
was started, movement for environmental protection. It started with 1979 Silent valley Case-
Palghat, Kerala Hydro-electric proposed in the tropical forest, but the high court of Kerala refused to
interfere in the matter and relied heavily on government position. Than followed the biggest disaster
in Indian history in 1984, the Bhopal Gas Tragedy. Bhopal disaster led to major changes in India,
first it to passing of Bhopal Gas Disaster Act, 1985 which further led to Passing of Environment
Protection Act (EPA),1986 (the umbrella environmental legislation).

The Apex Environmental Body and Environment
In 1985 Ministry of Environment and Forest of Govt. of India was established and in 1986 the
Environment Protection Act, (amended 1991) the umbrella legislation came into existence. This act
is applicable to entire country and overrules other legislation, including local laws, which
empowered the central government to take all necessary measures to protect and improve the
environment. Obligation under the Stockholm declaration, The Environment (Protection) Rules -lay
down procedures for setting standards of emission or discharge of environmental pollutants.

Brundtland Commision
In the 1983 the UN set up the World Commission on Environment and Development, also called as
the Brundtland Commission. They produced "Our Common Future", otherwise known as the
Brundtland Report, suggested 22 legal principal for environmental protection and sustainable
development. Which framed much of what would become the 40 chapters of Agenda 21 and the
27 principles of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development. It defined sustainable
development as development which; meets the needs of present generations without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs



23
The Other Rules and Regulations
In 1989, under EPA, government mandated the Hazardous waste (Management and handling)
rules - to control the generation, collection, treatment, import, storage, and handling of hazardous
waste and in the same year, the Central Motor Vehicles Rules were established which introduced
nation-wide emissions levels for both petrol and diesel driven vehicles. Subsequently in 1990 the
National Waste Management Council was constituted one of the NWMC objectives was municipal
solid waste management. The council is engaged at present in a survey of 22 municipalities to
estimate the quantity of recyclable waste and its fate during waste collection, transportation and
disposal.
In 1990 Environmental appraisal of Development Plans originated in UK and The European
Economic Community issues the first proposal for a Directive on the Environmental Assessment
(EA) of Policies, Plans and Programmes. Subsequently in 1992 Development Plans and Regional
Guidance (DOE, 1992) UK marked the beginning of EA of local authority Development Plan in the
UK.
In 1991 The Public Liability Insurance Act and Rules was drawn up to provide for public liability
insurance for the purpose of providing immediate relief to the persons affected by accident while
handling any hazardous substance and the ministry of environment and forests issued guidelines
for management and handling of hazardous waste.
In 1994 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) - Restrictions & Prohibitions on the Expansion &
Modernization of any activity or new projects unless Environmental Clearance has been accorded,
amended 2001 and in 1995 The UNDP introduces the environmental overview as a planning tool.

The International Events
The Earth day 1990 -Described as the largest organized demonstration in human history, followed
by the 20th anniversary of Stockholm, which took place in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro "Earth Summit"
and Declared that human beings are entitled to a healthy and productive life of harmony with
nature. The Rio de Janeiro earth summit agreed Agenda 21 and the Rio Declaration, These
documents outlined key policies for achieving sustainable development that meets the needs of the
poor and recognizes the limits of development to meet global needs.

The 74
th
Amendment Act
In 1992, with 74
th
Constitution Amendment Act (74
th
CAA), in fact, ushered in a new era in the
history of urban local government in the country. State legislatures were empowered to entrust local
bodies with necessary power and authority to enable them to function as institutions of local self-
government. It is a first serious attempt to ensure adequate constitutional obligation so that
democracy in the municipal government is stabilized.
The 74
th
CAA is, indeed a pointer to the determination of the state to bestow power to the people to
plan for themselves and participate in the decision-making process. The spatial and environment
planning in the planning system has also been envisaged by the act at various levels right from
nagar panchayats to a metropolitan area. It also provides for integration of the municipal plans with
district plans and through them with the state and national plans.

The Rules and Regulations in Last Ten Years
In 1995 another high powered committee on urban waste was setup. The Ministry of Environment
and Forests and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) organized a meeting with municipal
authorities and other concerned ministers in March 1995 to evolve a strategy for the management
of municipal solid wastes. In 1995 CPCB established an Environmental Planning Cell and
introduced an environmental (land use) planning programme known as Zoning Atlas for Siting of
Industries. In 1996 government published guidelines for safe road transportation of hazardous


24
waste and the Chemical Accidents (Emergency Planning, Preparedness and Response) Rules for
combating disasters.
In 1998 Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) Rules were issued is a legal binding on
the health care institutions to streamline the process of proper handling of hospital waste such as
segregation, disposal, collection, and treatment and Draft municipal solid waste (management and
handling) rules were issued.
For the benefit of planning in 1999, The Environment (Siting for Industrial Projects) Rules, 1999,
were laid down detailed provisions relating to areas to be avoided for siting of industries,
precautionary measures to be taken for site selecting as also the aspects of environmental
protection which should have been incorporated during the implementation of the industrial
development projects.
In 2000, Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules were established; the rules lay
down the procedure for waste collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing, and
disposal. This was followed by Final Municipal solid waste (management and handling) rules 2000
declaring that every municipal authority shall be responsible for the implementation of the rules and
for any infrastructure for collection, storage, segregation, transportation, processing and disposal of
Municipal solid waste. The Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules and The Ozone
Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules- have been laid down for the regulation of
production and consumption of ozone depleting substances were also established in 2000.
In 2002, The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act was amended to provide for the protection of
wild animals, birds and plants and for matters connected therewith or ancillary or incidental thereto
with a view to ensuring the ecological and environmental security of the country. In 2003 Bio-
Medical Waste (Management and Handling) (Amendment) Rules were amended. In 2003, Forest
(Conservation) Rules, 2003 super session of the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 1981.
In 2004 the Draft National Environment Policy (NEP) was published. The NEP, 2004 is a response
to national commitment to a clean environment, mandated in the Constitution in Articles 48 A and
51 A (g), strengthened by judicial interpretation of Article 21 Is recognized that maintaining a
healthy environment is not the states responsibility alone, but also that of every citizen. The NEP,
2004 is intended to be a guide to action: in regulatory reform, programmes and projects for
environmental conservation; and review and enactment of legislation, by agencies of the Central,
State, and Local Governments. It also seeks to stimulate partnerships of different stakeholders, i.e.
public agencies, local communities, the investment community, and international development
partners, in harnessing their respective resources and strengths for environmental management.
2.3. Summary
The formal planning and administrative system in India was introduced by the British colonizer,
hence the present planning system is mostly influenced or derived from British principle. The
earliest laws concerning environment (directly/indirectly), land and city management were
introduced by the British before the independence. It was during the British period when a lot of city
improvement trusts were established in cities and Town Planning Acts were enacted on lines of the
British Housing and Town Planning Act 1909.
After independence in 1947, town and country planning laws/ Acts were enacted in various states,
all these Acts provided for planning authorities at city level and town level for preparation of
Development Plan. These Acts are based on the Model Urban and Regional Planning Development
Act as proposed by the central government. However comprehensive urban and regional planning
in India was first introduced after independence in Delhi 1957, Delhi the capital city of India was the
first city to enact the Development Act in 1957 and the first Master Plan for Delhi was prepared in
1964. Delhi master plan was the first comprehensive Development Plan prepared in India and


25
many of the latter Master / Development Plans prepared by other cities in the country was based on
this Plan.
There are about two hundred laws dealing with environmental protection both before and after
independence in India. However, the pre-independence laws have not dealt with environmental
protection exclusively. For the purpose of this study, prior and post to Stockholm Conference, 1972
all the relevant Acts / Regulations and Policies in India related to development planning and
environment in India were identified.
5
Below is summary of the list of Acts/ Regulation/ Policies that
should be or need to be incorporated or referred to while preparing a Development Plan.

Table 2.3. Acts/ Regulation and Policies to be Incorporated in the Development Plan
Relevant Acts, / Regulation/
Legislation / Policy
Objectives of the Acts / Regulation/
Legislation/ Policy
Rationale for Incorporation
The Easement Act, 1882 Allows private rights to use a resource that
is, groundwater, by viewing it as an
attachment to the land. It also states that
all surface water belongs to the state and
is a state property.
Understanding the issues related to
user rights Ground/ Surface water.
The land Acquisition Act, 1894 Compulsorily acquiring of land required
for public purpose
Important Act for land mobilization
The Bombay Provincial
Municipal Corporation Act 1949
Provision of civic infrastructure and
administration of the city
Understanding the role, responsibility
and powers of a municipal corporation
(Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation or
the AMC, is established under the
Bombay Provincial Corporation Act)
Indian Electricity Rules, 1956 To regulate the supply, transmission,
generation, and use of electricity.
Regulates and controlles the
horizontal and vertical clear distances
to be kept open to sky near vicinity of
grid lines.
The Gujarat Municipal Act 1963 Provision of civic infrastructure and
administration of the municipal area
Understanding the role, responsibility
and powers of the municipalities in the
Development area.
The Indian Wildlife (Protection)
Act 1972
Protection of birds and animals and for all
matters that are connected to it whether it
be their habitat or the waterhole or the
forests that sustain them.
Need to identify habitats of protected
birds and animals in urban area
The Water (Prevention and
Control of Pollution) Act 1974
To ensure that domestic and industrial
pollutants are not discharged into rivers
and lakes without adequate treatment
Need integration in the GDCR of
development area.
The Gujarat town Planning and
Urban Development Act, 1976
to consolidate and amend the law relating
to making and execution of development
plans and town planning schemes in the
state of Gujarat.
Legislation under which the
Development Plan is prepared
The Air (Prevention and Control
of Pollution) Act, 1981
To control and reduce air pollution. Need integration in the GDCR of
development area.
The Environment (Protection)
Act, 1986
To provide for the protection and
improvement of environment and for
matters connected there with in the
country.
It is the umbrella legislation under
which all the environmental legislation
are enacted.
The Constitution of 74th
Amendment, 1992
To achieve democratic decentralization
and provide constitutional endorsement of
local self governance authorities and
decentralization of planning and decision
making procedures.
Ensure adequate constitutional
obligation for local self governance
and decentralization of planning and
decision making procedures.

5
For Comprehensive historical list of Acts / Regulation / legislation / Events in Urban Planning and Environment refer
appendix -1.


26
Relevant Acts, / Regulation/
Legislation / Policy
Objectives of the Acts / Regulation/
Legislation/ Policy
Rationale for Incorporation
The Chemical Accidents
(Emergency Planning,
Preparedness and Response)
Rules, 1996
To deal with major chemical accidents and to
provide expert guidance for handling major
chemical accidents.
Under sec. 10 (1) mention measure to be
taken in industrial pocket to deal with
chemical accidents and coordinate efforts
in planning, preparedness and mitigation
of a chemical accident
Draft National Slum Policy 1999 To support the planned growth of urban areas
in a manner that will help to upgrade all
existing slums and informal settlements with
due regard for the protection of the wider
public interest
Under sec. 7- Planning for Integration,
the policy proposes Modification Existing
Planning Framework such as Master
Plans, Land Use Plans to ensure that
slums and informal settlements can be
properly integrated into the wider urban
area
The Environment (Siting for
Industrial Projects) Rules, 1999
Lay down detailed provisions relating to areas
to be avoided for siting of industries,
precautionary measures to be taken for site
selecting as also the aspects of environmental
protection which should have been
incorporated during the implementation of the
industrial development projects
To identify strategic location for Industrial
land use.
Hazardous Wastes
(Management and Handling)
rules, 2000
To control the generation, collection,
treatment, import, storage, and handling of
hazardous waste.
Need for environmentally sound
management of hazardous wastes
generated from the development area
and to identify strategic location for safe
disposal
Municipal Solid Waste
Rules, 2000
To provide scientific management of municipal
solid waste, To ensure proper collection,
segregation, transportation, processing and
disposal of solid wastes; and To upgrade
existing facilities to arrest contamination of soil
and ground water
To integrate the rules while preparing
proposal for solid waste management of
the development area and to identify
strategic location for safe disposal site.
Noise Pollution (Regulation and
Control) Rules, 2000
To regulate and control noise producing and
generating sources with the objective of
maintaining the ambient air quality standards in
respect of noise
Under sec. 3 (4) All development
authorities, local bodies and other
concerned authorities while planning
developmental activity or carrying out
functions relating to town and country
planning shall take into consideration all
aspects of noise pollution as a parameter
of quality of life to avoid noise menace
Bio-Medical Waste
rules, 2003
Legal binding on the health care institutions to
streamline the process of proper handling of
hospital waste such as segregation, disposal,
collection, and treatment.
To integrate the rules in the GDCR of
development area and promote proper
management and handling.
The Gujarat State Disaster
Management Act, 2003
To provide for effective management of
disaster, for mitigation of effects of disaster, for
administering, facilitating, coordinating and
monitoring emergency relief during and after
occurrence of disasters
Under Sec. 17(1) (2) of the Act, it
Proposes Recommendations to be made
to the appropriate authority regarding the
development plan.
Draft National Environment
Policy, 2004
To mainstream environmental concerns in all
development activities. Conservation of Critical
Environmental Resources, Intra-generational
Equity: Livelihood Security for the Poor, Inter-
generational Equity, Integration of
Environmental Concerns in Economic and
Social Development, Efficiency in
Environmental Resource Use, Environmental
Governance.
The objectives are to be realized through
various strategic interventions by different
public authorities at Central, State, and
Local Government levels. The NEP also
proposes substantive reform for the
development plan.
EIA- Draft Notification for
projects, 2005
To identify and evaluate the potential impacts
(beneficial and adverse) of development
projects on the environmental system
Projects E.I.A can be seen as a positive
contribution to the planning process and
the findings can be feed into the next
review of the Development Plan provided
the results are well founded
Draft National Urban Housing
and Habitat Policy, 2005
To promote sustainable development of
habitat in the country, with a view to ensure
equitable supply of land, shelter and services
at affordable prices
The policy proposes action-oriented
initiatives at all levels of Government and
specifies action that requires to be
integrated in development plan.



27
C
C
h
h
a
a
p
p
t
t
e
e
r
r
3
3
.
.
P Pl la an nn ni in ng g f fo or r U Ur rb ba an n
D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t
3.1. Planning instruments/ Plans
Urbanization, a process which often leads to haphazard growth of cities, deterioration in living
condition, and worsening of environmental scenario has become a common feature in country
today. The trend is escalating the pressure on limited land resource available in the city and its
environs. The process of urbanization and increasing demand of land to accommodate the
increasing urban population lead to haphazard urban growth and productive agricultural land is lost
in the process. In this regards urban development planning assumes an important role to control
and regulate the growth of the city
In the Indian system, to guide the urban development planning process Urban Development Plans
Formulation and Implementation (UDPFI) guidelines have been prepared. These guidelines
propose a set of four interrelated plans as follows:
1. Perspective Plan
2. Development Plan
3. Annual Plan
4. Plans of Projects/Schemes.
3.1.1. Other Planning Instruments/ Plans
Apart from the plans mentioned above some cities also prepare Vision Documents/Plans, Structure
Plan, Comprehensive Plans, Strategic Plans and lately City Development Strategies (DCS), City
Development Plan (CDP) and Action Plan.
Vision Documents/ Perspective Plans
Vision documents are similar to a perspective plan, the idea behind preparing these vision
documents/ plans, is that Successful long-range planning can occur only if a city has a vision. This
vision documents broadly gives the ambitions and aspirations for the city development for the next
20 years and this is framed by a vision statements/goals. It provides a policy framework for further
detailing and it serves as a guide for urban local authority in preparation of the Development Plan.

Structure Plan
6

Structure Plan contains the vision, goals, policies and proposals to guide the development of a City
over the next 20 years. The Plan contains details of all the relevant separate components that
make up the City, that is, its economic base and population, broad land use and development
strategies, commerce, tourism, industry, transportation, infrastructure and utilities, housing,
community facilities, urban design and landscape, environment and special areas. It does not
contain proposals for detailed physical planning for any specific area. Detailed physical proposals
shall be relegated to a subsequent stage of the Development Plan. The Development plan shall
provide for the citizens a more comprehensive and detailed perspective of the future of the city.
Lately The Master Plan idea has moved to Structure Plan, but it is considered more philosophical;
policy oriented, and in places where the structure plan doesnt have statutory status, it became
more a sort of a book-shelf plan than an implementation plan.

6
With reference to CHKL, (undated), Kuala Lumpur Structure Plan 2020, [Online], Available:
http://www.dbkl.gov.my/pskl2020/english/index.htm [4 January 2006]


28
Comprehensive Plan
Comprehensive Plan has a long-range perspective, and is a policy document that provides a
coordinated approach to making many decisions regarding land use and the location of
development. The City Comprehensive Plan establishes an urban development strategy and
policies to guide the future growth and development (generally 5-20 years). The objective of the
plan is to provide necessary details and intended actions in the form of strategies and physical
proposals for various policies given in the perspective plan. It is a statutory plan conceived under
the state town planning act. This plan is similar to the Development Plans that are prepared in
India; it is also know as a Comprehensive Development Plan in some states of India.

Strategic Plan
Strategic Plan is sector based plans or issue/issues based plans like - economic Development Plan
for a city/ human resource Development Plan/ Transportation Plan. The purpose of the plan is to
articulate a set of measurable strategies and actions to facilitate development of the City (based on
the sector or issue) and to clearly define the goals, roles and responsibilities for achieving
successful outcome.
City Development Strategies (CDS)
7

A City Development Strategy (CDS) is an action plan for equitable growth in a city, developed and
sustained through public participation to improve the quality of life for all citizens. The goals are a
collective city vision and action plan to improve governance and management, increasing
investments to expand employment and services, and systematic and sustained programs to
reduce poverty. A city is expected to drive the process and local ownership is essential. In other
words, a CDS is a Corporate Plan for the city.

City Development Plan (CDP)
8

The City Development Plan (CDP) is the Municipal Corporations corporate strategy that presents
both a vision of a desired future perspective for the city and the Corporations organization, and
mission statements on how the Corporation, together with other stakeholders, intends to work
towards achieving their long-term vision in the next five to ten years. It is similar to a City
Development Strategies, but presently CDP in India are prepared under the JawaharIal Nehru
National Urban Renewal Mission (JNURM) and the only difference between CDS and CDP is that
CDP contains a Financially Operational Plan (FOP).

Table 3.1. Summary of the Planning Instruments / Plans
Planning
Instruments/ Plans
Objectives and Content of the Plan Legal Status
To define a vision for the next 20-25 years for the city
(ambitions and aspirations of the city)
To provides a policy framework for further detailing and it
serves as a guide for urban local authority in preparation of
the development plan.
Contains the vision, goals, policies and proposals to guide the
development of a City over the next 20 years
Does not contain proposals for detailed physical planning for
any specific area
Vision Document/
Perspective Plan
No legal Status
Structure Plan No legal Status

7
Asian Development Bank, [online], Available: www.adb.org [6 January 2006]
8
PMC. (2006), Pune City development plan, [online], Available: http://www.egovpmc.com/tp/cdp/pune_cdp-
final_draftreport.doc [19 January 2006]


29
Planning
Instruments/ Plans
Objectives and Content of the Plan Legal Status
To provide necessary details and intended actions in the form
of strategies and physical proposals for various policies given
in the perspective plan. (time-span 5-20 Years)
Is a policy document that provides a coordinated approach to
making many decisions regarding land use and the location of
development.
To articulate a set of measurable strategies and actions to
facilitate development of the City and to clearly define the
goals, roles and responsibilities. (time-span 1-5 Years)
Is a sector based plans or issue/issues based plans.
To improve governance and management, increasing
investments to expand employment and services, and
systematic and sustained programs to reduce poverty (time-
span 5-8 Years)
It is a corporate plan for the city
City Development
Plan/ City
Development
Strategies
No legal Status
Comprehensive
Development Plan/
Development Plan
Legal Status
provided by the
Acts under which
it is conceived
Strategic Plan No legal Status

3.2. Development Plan
A Development Plan is a Plan conceived within the framework of the approved Perspective Plan, it
is a medium term plan (generally 5-20 years) providing to the people the comprehensive proposals
for socio-economic and spatial development of the urban center indicating the manner in which the
use of land and development there in shall be carried out by the local authority and other agencies.
It is a statutory plan, adopted by the local authority for implementation with the help of schemes and
projects. Its proposals are precise and definite, in some cities this is also known as a Master Plan.
Development Plan envisages the entire town/urban area as a single unit. This is necessary to
achieve overall development of the town/urban area in a co-ordinate manner. The development or
expansion of a town takes along time, and therefore the development has to be regulated in time
on the basis of a Plan. A Development Plan is thus a blue print of the various proposals that are
intended to improve the existing conditions and to control the future growth of the town in a
coordinated manner.
3.2.1. Environment in Development Plan
A major criticism of development planning is that it has failed to adequately incorporate
environmental consideration and values in a Development Plan. Most of the Development Plan
including Ahmedabad Development Plan mentions environment, as an important component, but
these is limited to concerns about pollution of air and water. Air and water are mainly mentioned
because; majority cities like Ahmedabad have reached to a high pollution level, which are affecting
the health of the citizens. But around the globe the emphasis has changed with the realization that
environmental considerations should not be limited to concerns about just pollution control but
should be more positive in aiming to create more comfortable, pleasant and stimulating
surroundings natural and manmade environments. So considering the bio-centric view, one has to
look at element like air, water, and land resources, open spaces and natural resources,
archeological and historical resources, and areas subject to natural hazards and man made
hazards, and integrate it in the Development Plan. If initially proper environmental integration was
achieved, environmental impact statements will be much less likely to uncover unanticipated
negative effects requiring costly plan changes and delay.
Along with physical environment more important is the resulting Development Plan should be much
more sensitive to all the needs- social and cultural as well as physical needs of the people who live
in urban areas.


30
3.2.2. Environmental Priority in Development Plan
The traditional comprehensive planning and management has come from those that argued that it
has ignored natural environment process as fundamental constraints to urbanization. Because of
this the land-use decisions were being made and still been made primarily on the basis of
economic criteria, the objectives being to accommodate projected growth while minimizing
development costs and maximizing economic accessibility.
In many parts of the world, economic development projects directed at improving levels of material
comfort have had unintended detrimental effects on people and natural resources. Water, land, and
air have been degraded to the point where they can no longer sustain existing levels of
development and quality of life. With inadequate environmental planning, human activities have
resulted in the disruption of social and communal harmony, the loss of human livelihood and life,
the introduction of new diseases, and the destruction of renewable resources. These and other
consequences can negate the positive benefits of economic development. Economic development
in developing countries has been focused on immediate economic gains environmental protection
has not been a priority because the economic losses from environmental degradation often occur
long after the economic benefits of development have been realized.
9
As a result has been
significant environmental degradation accompanied by hazard to human life and property,
unanticipated social costs, and loss of amenity and diversity.
Present Environmental Issues in Cities
Some specific urban issues relating to environment in cities are-
Untreated sewage discharged into receiving waters during periods of heavy rainfall
because of combined sewers
Property loss from development of flood plains
Development without considering the topography and inadequate storm water drains
leading to flooding in the monsoon causing property loss
Pollution and depletion of ground water supplies from development on aquifers and land
development sealing their recharge zones
Destruction of wetlands by the disposal of solid waste in land fills
Destruction of water bodies and lakes by pollution
Interfering with the marine biodiversity by reclaiming land from sea and river
Loss of agricultural land to urban sprawls
Loss of forest area and green cover due to increasing urban pressure causing loss of flora
and fauna
Destruction of natural environment by recreation developments
Air pollution and stress on humans resulting from poorly designed transportation systems
and poorly planned and regulated industries
Loss of life and property due to poorly designed building in active seismic zones
Health problems directly effecting due to noise and air pollution
Collection and disposal of solid waste
Loss of life and property due to unplanned hazards
Due to the specific problems stated above relating to environment, it is essential to take
environment considerations in any Development Plan or any plan making. These problems are
mostly considered as sector based problems by cities, but environment problem need a holistic
approach therefore there is a need for integration of these issues in development planning

9
ABD. (1997), Chapter 1: Introduction EIA for Developing Countries, Environment Impacts , 1997, [Online], Available:
http://www.adb.org/Documents/Books/Environment_Impact/ chap1.pdf [18 November 2005]


31
exercise. Hence environment should be the key to any Development Plan in order to avoid the
extra cost required for unanticipated negative effects.
3.3. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
The past failure of development planning processes to take adequate account of the detrimental
impacts of economic development activities led to the advent of environmental impact assessment
(EIA) processes. EIA was first employed by industrialized countries in the early 1970s. Since that
time, most countries have adopted EIA processes to examine the social and environmental
consequences of projects prior to their execution.
10
The purpose of these processes is to provide
information to decision makers and the public about the environmental implications of proposed
actions before decisions are made.
Indian Scenario
Naturally in India that at no stage in planning is environmental assessment or situation of likely
environment damages and mitigation methods a part of the long term urban planning. Such a
system requires a detailed understanding and study of hydrological characteristics of the region, air
circulation patterns, study of ecological characteristic etc. similarly at the time of town planning
schemes, sometimes involving huge residential development, environmental impact assessment is
not prepared on an informal basis if not according to the rigor of Ministry of Environment and
Forests recommendations.
In India, Environment consideration only occurs at project level where E.I.A has to be conducted. If
one goes through E.I.A Notification 15th September 2005 it covers entire range of projects which
land use decision are taken at Development planning stage. E.I.A of projects has mostly been
criticized on the grounds that because it is a response to a specific development proposal, it may
not address some wider or more fundamental considerations such as alternative solutions or
strategic location issues. Neither can it fully appraise the cumulative impact of number of proposals,
especially when they are individually too small.
Increasing sensitivity to environmental issues in a Development Plan during the planning stage can
help to address these matters by considering alternative strategies or land uses and by considering
the overall environment effects of implementing plan. Therefore there is a need for clarity at
preparation stage showing how environmental issues have been taken into account and hence
reduce the strategic environmental effects. Projects E.I.A should be seen as a positive contribution
to the planning process and the findings can be feed into the next review of the Development Plan
provided that the results are well founded.
3.4. Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
The requirement for local authorities to carry an SEAS or environmental appraisal of these
Development Plans originated in 1990 in Europe with the British government white paper on earths-
the common inheritance (DOE, 1990) which stressed the importance of ensuring that
environmental considerations are fully incorporated into policy document (Therival & Partidario
2002).
Now SEA is the subject of legislation, which came into force on 20 July 2004 in Europe,
implementing a European Directive. It requires environmental effects to be taken into account by
authorities during the preparation of plans and programmes in the fields of land-use, transport,
waste and water management, energy, and a range of other sectors.

10
ABD. (1997), Chapter 1: Introduction EIA for Developing Countries, Environment Impacts , 1997, [Online],
Available: http://www.adb.org/Documents/Books/Environment_Impact/ chap1.pdf [18 November 2005]


32
The Directive aims to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to
the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and
programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development. A central purpose of SEA is to
anticipate and improve the overall environmental effects of proposed patterns of spatial
development, and of multiple individual projects.
11

The environment assessment of Development Plans is often referred to as strategic environment
appraisal /assessment- it is a process for identifying to a strategic environmental effects of a
Development Plan so that they may be taken into account before the Plan is approved or adapted.
It involves examining a Plans objectives policies and proposals in relation to broader environmental
aims, identifying their likely consequences and through a process of assessment and adjustment,
preventing or reducing the likely significant effects of Plan on the environment.
Indian Scenario
India does not have any legislation for SEA and environment assessment is limited to project level.
But, SEA is truly useful only if environmental concerns have been already been integrated to some
extend in the context and approach. In absence of SEA legislation, there a need to sensitize the
development planning process towards environment and increase the environmental credential of
Development Plan policies and proposals. Since decision of planning applications have to be made
in accordance with the Development Plan there should be clarity in plan making by showing how
environmental issues have been taken into account and hence helping to prevent avoidable
environmental damage.
3.5. EIA vs. SEA
The major difference between EIA and SEA is given below in table
Table 3.2. EIA vs. SEA
Strategic Impact Assessment (SEA) Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
To provide for a high level of protection of the
environment and to contribute to the integration of
environmental considerations into the preparation
and adoption of plans and programmes with a view
to promoting sustainable development
To provide information to decision makers and the
public about the environmental implications of
proposed actions (project) before decisions are
made
Assessment scope - Policies, Statutory
Development Plans, Strategic Plan
Assessment scope-limited to project level in India.
Pro-active approach- Assessment during the
preparation of the Plan/ Policy before the Plan/Policy
is approved.
Re-active approach- Assessment carried out after
the project has been proposed.
No legislation for SEA in India Legislation exists for EIA in India
Since the assessment is carried out at preparation
stage, Provision can be made
Alternative solutions or strategic location issues of
the project not considered.
Can fully appraise the cumulative impact of all the
project conceived within the Policy/ Plans
Since assessment is carried out at project level, it
Cannot fully appraise the cumulative impact
Issue of alternative solution or strategic location
Appraisal of cumulative impact of projects
Objective
Assessment Scope
Approach
Legal Status

11
U.K. (2004), Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), Number 223, 2004, [Online], Available:
http://www.parliament.uk/documents/upload/POSTpn223.pdf [18 November 2005]


33
3.6. Urban Planning in India and issues
3.6.1. Urban Planning in India
Over a period of time it has been found that physical planning as embodied in Town and Country
Planning Acts and socio-economic planning based on plan funds through the national level
planning commissions were not operating in tandem. There was also less stress on the regional
context of planning due to its long-term implications and where crisis planning required a close look
at urban centers which were growing faster than the managerial capabilities to service such
centers. At the national level, sectoral investments were through a series of central and state
government departments but generally outside planning frameworks. It is only now that
Development Plans lay stress on integrated growth and fiscal programmes.
3.6.2. The 74th Constitutional Amendment Act 1992 (74th CAA)
The 74
th
Constitution Amendment Act (74
th
CAA) has, in fact, ushered in a new era in the history of
urban local government in the country. The 74
th
CAA demands devolution of planning function to
local authorities and involvement of people in the planning decision making process; and
administratively and professionally it is expected that the system should provide for a long-term
policy plan, a mid-term comprehensive plan which is further integrated with the budgetary process
and divided into projects/schemes for implementation, monitoring and review.
Article 243-W of the 74
th
CAA envisages, among others, that the legislature of state may, by law,
endow the municipalities with such powers and the responsibilities subject to such conditions as
may be specified. Further Article 243-ZD provides for constitution of a Metropolitan Planning
Committee for planning a metropolitan area and article 243-ZE provides that every Metropolitan
planning Committee (DPC) shall, in preparation of Draft Development Plan, have regards to,
among others- matters of common interest between the municipalities and the panchayats
including spatial planning, sharing of water and other physical and natural resources, the integrated
development of infrastructure and environment conservation.
The 74
th
CAA where, under article 243 U (i), the duration of municipalities the local authority for
Development Plan preparation, adoption and implementation is for a period of 5 years. A plan and
a planning process that provides opportunities to incorporate the needs of the urban centre and
development aspiration of the people through the elected representatives would be desirable,
acceptable to people and be dynamic as it will have better adoptability to change. But presently all
the Development Plans by major cities are prepared for a time-frame of 20 years and revised every
10 years and the current process of approval of Development Plans also takes a lot of time,
resulting in delays.
The 74
th
CAA also emphasis that, urban Plans should not be conceived in isolation from its region
as each urban centre is part of a regional system of settlements which in turn play their respective
role in the process of development of the region as a whole.
The 74
th
CAA is, indeed a pointer to the determination of the state to bestow power to the people to
plan for themselves and participate in the decision-making process. The spatial and environment
planning in the planning system has also been envisaged by the act at various levels right from
Nagar Panchayats to a metropolitan area. It also provides for integration of the municipal plans with
district plans and through them with the state and national plans. But the faith and the complete
implementation of the 74
th
CAA is left to the disposal of the state legislature which by law, endow
the municipalities with such powers and the responsibilities subject to such conditions as may be
specified.


34
3.6.3. The Development Plan/ Master plan
In India, traditionally the development of urban areas is largely governed by their Development
Plan /Master Plans duly approved by the respective governments. Item 20 of the concurrent list in
the seventh schedule of the constitution of India states that social and economic planning is a joint
responsibility of the central and state governments. However, land being a state subject, the role of
the state governments assumes importance in the implementation of the plans. The urban planning
system includes the Development / Master plan, detailed further through zonal plans. Generally, the
state town and country planning departments or development authorities are responsible for
preparation of Master / Development Plans of urban centers under the respective state regional
and Town Planning Acts- the implementation of these plans is often through development
authorities with co-operation of local bodies. Master Plans are prepared to achieve an orderly
growth of urban settlement, which form part of the city. The jurisdictions of the Master Plans are
normally the urban areas in the case of smaller urban settlements and include the surroundings
inter dependent areas in the case of major urban settlements. The plan period for such master plan
is 10-20 years.
Most metropolitan cities in India prepared Master Plans/ Development Plans in the 1960s were
patterned along the following themes
12
:
1. Demographic projections and decisions on the level at which the population shall be contained.
2. Allocation of population to various zones depending on existing density level, infrastructure
capacity and future density levels.
3. Land-use zoning to achieve the desired allocation of population and activities in various zones as
projected.
4. Large scale acquisition of land with a view to ensuring planned development.

Ground Realities of Development Plan/ Master Plan
These comprehensive Master Plans/ Development Plans backed by the voluminous work studies
and reports unfold a vision of these cities and towns as they are perceived to be in the year 2011
A.D. (a hypothetical year) a magical year so dear to the community of planners!. But in most of the
cases assumptions have been questioned. The planning framework as adopted in the preparation
of Master Plans has not been found to be commensurate with ground realities. The net effect of the
inadequacies of the planning process has been that majority of urban growth has long taken place
outside the formal planning process. Informal residential and business premises and developments
increasingly dominate urban areas. In Delhi, where half or more of a city's population and many of
its economic activities are located in illegal or informal settlements, urban planners still rely on
traditional master-planning approaches with their role restricted to servicing the minority, high
income residents and mostly access to housing, services and employments by the informal sector
and which in metropolitan areas can be well over half the urban population is ignored in the Master
Plan. So no one can deny the fact that in spite of all this planning efforts, the cities have continued
to deteriorate, roads are clogged, slums have mushroomed, open spaces vanished, jobs
concentrated in central areas, and pollution increased.

Issue of Specialized Agencies
The current planning practices in the country indicates that planning objectives, policies and
strategies at national level, are basically formalized in the five year plans which are economic and
social in nature and contents. These plans are the major documents which determined the course

12
Mohan, D. (2001), Planning for Public Transport: Integrating Safety, Environment and Economic Issues
Transportation Research and Injury Prevention Programme, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi.


35
of national development, these are sectoral and there is hardly any actual inter-sectoral
coordination. One of the major factors contributing to the lack of comprehensiveness in
comprehensive urban planning and management has been fragmentation of the planning
responsibility among specialized agencies based on sectors. The results, in the absence of
effective intergovernmental and interagency coordination, has been narrowly focused, single-
purpose functional planning for example, plans for locating highways, developing water
resources, or building water and sewer systems. But measures designed to solve one problem
often create or exacerbate problems in other functional areas. The examples of environmental
problems resulting from a failure to plan comprehensively generally include disruption and
degradation of the natural environment, unplanned secondary development, and dislocation of
people and whole neighborhoods.

Implementation
The implementation of these Development / Master plans, however, has generally been poor and
they have been criticized to be rigid and static having little regard to investment planning efforts and
taking very long time in the process of plan formulation and approval. According to assessment
carries out by Gowda Kari
13
hardly 15 to 30% of Plan proposals are implemented. This is majorly
because of the planning framework as adopted in the preparation of Master Plans has not been
found to be commensurate with ground realities. The lands reserved for public purpose have not
been acquired by the authority; due to lack of man power and resources the infrastructure has not
been provided. The net effect of the inadequacies of the planning process has been that majority of
urban growth has long taken place outside the formal planning process and than attempt have
been made to regularize the illegal construction and development. But the issue here is that,
indiscriminate regularization may ultimately defeat the very purpose of preparing the plans and
framing of rules and regulations. In such case the planning authority should be accountable to the
citizen; there is no provision in Town Planning to envisage any authority to supervise the planning
authorities to assess their performance. Assessing the performance of the planning authority is very
important since many of them have failed in preparing the Plans in time and enforcing the plan
proposals properly.
Beside Master Plans rarely evaluate the cost of the development they propose, or how they will be
financed. For this reason, it is impossible to tell whether the plans require outlays far beyond what
is affordable. The typical Master Plan offers no guidance on which parts of the Plan could be
scrapped if adequate resources for implementing the entire plan are not available.

Major Deficiencies in the Development / Master Plan Approach are:
It provides a long-term perspective of development, neglecting short-term actions and
objectives; thus, losing its effectiveness in a fast-changing scenario.
It is rigid and static because it is treated as an end product and not as a continuous
process.
It takes a very long time in its preparation and approval, making it an out-of-date document
even before its implementation. As a consequence, there are frequent changes in land use.
It lacks integration of physical and fiscal planning efforts
Implementations of Development / Master Plans are generally poor.
Monitoring and review mechanisms are neither regular nor effective.
It emphasizes control rather than promotion of development.

13
Gowda, K. (Undated), Role of Planning Authorities and Urban Local Bodies in Plan Implementation and
Enforcement- A case study of Karnataka, [Online], Available: home.iitk.ac.in/~pmprasad/eandd.ppt [15 November
2005]


36
In some cases too much political interference is observed which results in some irrational
proposals and implementation decisions
3.6.4. Environment Problem in Urban Planning
The environmental problems associated with urban growth and management includes urban
sprawl, damage due to construction activities (in planned versus unplanned settlements), threat to
the cultural heritage and inadequacies in provision of basic environmental amenities in the urban
areas (underground drainage, waste waster treatment facilities and solid waste disposal sites). The
problem in today planning is environmental components are not addressed explicitly and Study
maps do not cover all ecological characteristics. The whole planning process is affected due to lack
of base maps, since up-to-date base map of urban areas covering the logical planning area are not
available. Moreover the available Plan/ Maps for the conurbation area do not have the desired
details of accuracy required for urban planning.
The comprehensive Development Plan does not consider the resource base, impact of competitive
advantage of regions to attract investment, and regional migration trends based on hierarchy of
settlements. As investment potential of an area is not comprehensively assessed, and only a land
allocation and use prescription is made, the actual growth rarely follows the original assumptions
and infringements of regulations are common
14
.
With population migrating to urban settlements in search of improved economic levels, the first
pressure is on housing leading to the high costs or prevailing high rents in urban areas thus leasing
to illegal occupancy of vacant / public land through huts which over a period of time develops into a
slum. Such housing does not have any basis amenities like light, water or toilet facilities and
consequently affects environment in the immediate surroundings. The high land costs and inability
of planning authorities to provide adequate land at cheap prices result in the formation of
unplanned / illegal layouts. Agriculture land zoned for residential land use in the master plan are
often subdivided into plots and sold by owners without permission from the concerned planning
authorities. The illegal layouts typically do not have adequate open spaces, access roads will be
too narrow and provision for water supply or sewage system or for garbage collection will be
absent. Absence of provision of water and sewage system by the state ( due to illegal nature of this
sites and construction) forces people to draw usage of ground water and use soak pits for toilets
activities, thus effecting the environment.
3.6.5. New Approach in Urban Planning
Town planning is a state subject. Over years, various state governments have been taking
concerned attempts to plan and manage the urban areas. There are certain regulations/ Acts that
bestows the urban local bodies as well as the state government to govern the urban areas. Master
planning/ development planning is the most general approach adopted in the planning of urban
areas. However, the experiences elsewhere as well as within our country have promoted to look
alternative approaches, as the Master Plan approach to urban planning did not yield desired level.
With the continuous search for alternative approaches towards urban development and
management, the experts both locally and internationally propagate for the adoption of capital
budgeting and city corporate plan like City Development Strategies and City Development Plan for
effective management of urban area. These are recent concepts and it is very early to say about
the credibility of these plans in Indian context.

14
Anonymous. (2003), Urban Planning, Sate of Environment Report -2003, [Online], Available:
http://parisara.kar.nic.in/PDF/ UrbanPlanning.pdf [1 January 2006]


37
3.6.6. Cost of Planning
Another problem of the planning process was and still is its high costs. As long as most plans were
Development Plan this problem was no big issues, since the planning costs could be paid out of
the funds obtained for building permits. But at a moment where the rate of building activities is
slowing down, the character of the plan is changed from development to conservation. The
municipalities are faced with the necessity to provide the money involved in the planning process
out of other municipal resource. However, the initial preparation effort is normally an expensive
multi-year affair and Indian governments may not afford to update the master plan frequently
enough to keep pace with development.
In order to make planning less expensive and reduce the necessity of frequent changes of the
plans countries like Netherland came with idea of land use plan with higher degree of flexibility.
According to them the plan should not contain any regulations than those that are absolute
necessary, and avoid unnecessary restrictions for the municipality as well as far the public. As a
result, the possibility for including planning policy objectives and other guidelines in the plan was
created. All building permits must be in accordance with the regulations of the plan and with these
policy objectives. However, detailed plan are still a possibility.
3.7. Conclusion
The process of urbanization has led to rapid growth of the cities and hence to plan and regulate the
cities, urban development planning assumes an important role. The urban planning system in India
has gone through an evolutionary process. There are various instrument employed by various cities
in India to regulate and plan its growth. The instrument like Structure Plan, Vision Document and
City Development Strategies were employed by some cities but due to lack of statutory support this
plans remained more of a book-self Plans.
Presently Development /Master Plan are the only instrument that is backed statutory by a Town
Planning Act and remains an important instrument for urban development planning. But due to
economic criteria dominating urban planning decisions, development planning has failed to
adequately incorporate environmental consideration and values in a Development Plan. As a result
has been significant environmental degradation in urban areas accompanied by hazard to human
life and property, unanticipated social costs, and loss of amenity and diversity. In absence of
legislation for Strategic Environmental Assessment of Development Plans in India, there a need to
sensitize the development planning process towards environment and increase the environmental
credential of Development Plan policies and proposals.
The other issue associated the Development Plan is the time-frame for the Plan. The 74th
Constitution Amendment Act (74th CAA) which ushered in a new era in the history of urban local
government in the country proposes a time-frame of 5 years for the Development Plan while
presently Development Plans are prepared for time-frame of 20 years. The planning framework as
adopted in the preparation of Master Plans has not been found to be commensurate with ground
realities. The net effect of the inadequacies of the planning process has been that majority of urban
growth has long taken place outside the formal planning process.
One of the major factors contributing to the lack of comprehensiveness in comprehensive urban
planning and management has been fragmentation of the planning responsibility among
specialized agencies based on sectors. The result is lack of intergovernmental and interagency
coordination during preparation and implementation of the plan. Beside Development / Master
plans rarely evaluate the cost of the development they propose, or how they will be financed. The
typical master plan offers no guidance on which parts of the plan could be scrapped if adequate
resources for implementing the entire plan are not available. Hence there is an urgent need for
revival of the present urban development planning system.


38
C
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E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t a an nd d U Ur rb ba an n
D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t P Pl la an ns s
4.1. Introduction
The formal Planning and administrative system in India was introduced by the British colonizer,
hence the present planning system is mostly influenced or derived from British principle. As
discussed earlier section the earliest laws concerning environment (directly/indirectly), land and city
management were introduced by the British. It was during the British period when a lot of City
Improvement Trusts were established in cities and Town Planning Act was enacted on lines of the
British Housing and Town Planning Act 1909.
Over a period of time city planning have gone through an evolution process and a lot of changes
were made to suit the local condition and the emerging issues. Recently environment has been a
major concern for cities throughout the world and environmental consideration in city planning
process has become a necessity. This section tries to understand the development / master
planning process of two cities London (British capital city- which influenced India for about 150
years) and Delhi the capital city of India (also planned by the British and the first city to enact the
development act and prepare the Master Plan after independence) and their extent of
environmental consideration.
4.2. London Plan 2004
The Greater London Authority (GLA) was established in 2000. It covers the 32 London boroughs
and the Corporation of London. It is made up of a directly elected Mayor (Executive) and a
separately elected Assembly (to scrutinize the mayor). The GLA is a new kind of public authority,
designed to provide citywide, strategic government for London. Its principal purposes are to
promote the economic and social development and the environmental improvement of Greater
London.
The Greater London Authority Act 1999 places responsibility for strategic planning in London on the
Mayor, and requires him to produce a Spatial Development Strategy for London which he has
called the London Plan and keep it under review. The London Plan replaces existing strategic
guidance, and boroughs local plans must be in general conformity with it. The required content of
the London Plan is set out in the Act, supplemented by a government guidance note (Circular
1/2000).The GLA Act 1999 also requires that the London Plan takes account of three crosscutting
themes:- The health of Londoners , Equality of opportunity and Its contribution to sustainable
development in the UK.
4.2.1. The Process for Preparing the Plan
The Mayor has to produce the new strategic London Plan in three stages:
Stage 1 Towards the London Plan: This document, set out for consultation a vision for London
and the broad policy directions which would guide the preparation of the draft London Plan. The
results of that consultation, and the Mayors response to it, were set out in Responses to Towards
the London Plan.
Stage 2 Draft London Plan: This stage began with the publication of the Draft Plan, accompanied
by a sustainability appraisal. It was subject to a statutory three-month consultation period. The
responses (and the Mayor's views concerning these responses) are considered by a government-
appointed panel reporting to the Mayor. The panel holds an Examination in Public (E.I.P.) on the


39
draft London Plan. It tests the strategy for robustness, effectiveness and consistency with other
strategies and government policy, and presented its report to the Mayor.
Stage 3 The published London Plan: London Plan 2004 is the first statutory, strategic plan
prepared for London for two decades. The Mayor believes it is crucial to Londons development that
a plan be put in place as early as possible to fill the gap in long-term direction for London. Inevitably
this means balancing the overall strategic direction with the level of detail that can be included. The
strategic policy framework and data sources, within which the plan is situated, are constantly
changing. In preparing the Plan all advice and guidance current at the time of going to print have to
be taken account.
The London Plan will be subjected to an ongoing process of monitoring and managing change. An
annual report will be published and the Mayor will move to an early review of or alteration to the
Plan to update certain areas and to reflect major external changes
Figure 4.1. London Plan Preparation Process
4.2.2. Time Influenced Change
According to the London Plan, Over the past 20 years London has changed dramatically. Some of
these changes are being driven by international forces, including:
London Plan
Draft London
Plan
Sustainable appraisal
3- Months consultation period
Responses considered by a
Government appointed panel
Panel conducts Examination in public
(E.I.P) - presents report to Mayor
Directly elected
The Greater London Authority
Mayor
(Executive)
Elected Assembly
Scrutinize
Towards the London plan- consultation a vision
for London and broad policy direction
Mayor vision
Annual Report - alteration to the Plan, update certain areas and reflect major
external change


40
The globalization of many economic sectors, and the dominance of the finance and
business sectors, frequently interlinked with dramatic advances in technology
An increased inter-relationship between major economies, where internationalization of
investment and trade accompanies developments in telecommunications and rapid
transport effectively shrinks distances between people, markets, and business decision
takers
And the most important the new increasing environmental imperative to use energy and
resources more efficiently, value the environment and reduce environmental stress
4.2.3. Growth of London
The London cannot realistically reverse these strong, deep-rooted factors driving change, nor does
the Mayor wishes to do so in the London Plan. London Plan sets out policies to accommodate the
growth in a sustainable way, within Londons own boundaries and without encroaching on Londons
own precious green spaces.
According to London Plan, Growth can only be accommodated without encroaching on open
spaces if development takes place more intensively, leading to higher densities and plot ratios on
existing brownfield sites. In short London must become a more compact city.
4.2.4. Sustainable Development
A more compact city will enable the more effective use of scarce resources, including land,
energy, transport infrastructure, water and construction materials. It means in turn that open
spaces, rivers and other water features should be protected and enhanced so that growth can
benefit the citys breathing spaces.
The plan through strategies supports a determined effort to manage Londons waste more
sustainable and to minimize Londons effect on, and manage its responses to, climate change.
4.2.5. The Mayors Vision
Growth, Equity and Sustainable Development, are consistent themes throughout all the Mayors
strategies. Mayors vision is to develop London as an exemplary, sustainable world city, based on
the three balanced and interwoven themes
strong, diverse long term economic growth
social inclusivity to give all Londoners the opportunity to share in Londons future success
fundamental improvements in Londons environment and use of resources
4.2.6. Vision to Objectives
The Mayor has set out five common themes for each strategy to ensure that London can become: a
city for people, a prosperous city, a fair city, an accessible city and a green city. Each of these
themes has been developed into a specific objective and key policy direction are given to achieve
each objective
The objective of the London plan is as follow
To accommodate Londons growth within its boundaries without encroaching on open
spaces
To make London a better city for people to live in
To make London a more prosperous city with strong and diverse economic growth
To promote social inclusion and tackle deprivation and discrimination
To improve Londons accessibility
To make London a more attractive, well-designed and green city


41
4.2.7. Forces Driving Change in London
Looking at the future, the London plan identifies and examines six forces driving change in London.
They are population growth, economic growth, environmental issues, lifestyle and technological
changes and social justice. The environmental imperative is encapsulated by the Rio Summit, the
Kyoto Agreement and a raft of EU and UK Directives, standards and targets. The Mayors vision for
an exemplary, sustainable world city means that Londoners must be more responsible about how
much they consume and discard. The London Plan gives an opportunity to plan growth in ways that
make better use of key resources such as land, buildings and construction materials, water,
energy and waste.
London also needs to respond to climate change in two ways first, in terms of reducing
emissions that contribute to global warming and secondly, by managing the impacts and risks that
climate change will bring.
4.2.8. The Broad Sustainable Spatial Development Strategy
London Plan proposes, optimizing the use of previously developed land and vacant or
underused buildings ensuring that development occurs in locations that are currently, or are
planned to be, accessible by public transport, walking and cycling ensuring that development
occurs in locations that are accessible to town centres, employment, housing, shops and services
ensuring that development takes account of the capacity of existing or planned infrastructure
including public transport, utilities and community infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals
taking account of the physical constraints on the development of land, including, for example, flood
risk, ensuring that no significant harmful impacts occur, or that such impacts are acceptably
mitigated.
4.2.9. Living in London
Living in London is addressed to and is predominantly about Londons residents. It concentrates on
housing and on the key public services that are critical to quality of life. The London Plan firstly, it
examines the need for additional housing. This is partly to address the demand for housing coming
from population growth, but it is also to address the historical shortage of affordable housing and
the high cost of housing in London.
Secondly, it takes a more detailed look at Londons population made up of a host of communities
of identity and interest each of which has its own particular needs over and above the needs it
shares with others.
Thirdly, it looks at the major public services education and health as well as safety. It seeks to
ensure that the spatial and planning needs of the services the new schools, health and other
facilities needed for a growing population - are met over the coming years. The London plan gives
due consideration for the issues of disabled people.
4.2.10. Promoting Environmental Industries
According to London plan, The Mayor and the LDA and other agencies and sub regional
partnerships should, support the establishment of green industries and green practices in
business through funding, training, business support, market development, promotion initiatives,
demonstration projects, land use policies and support for clusters of related activities.
Environmental industries address issues of air and noise pollution, climate change, waste
management and fuel poverty, building on policies in the Mayor's five environmental strategies
covering energy, waste management, ambient noise, air quality and biodiversity.


42
4.2.11. Sustainable Transport in London
London plan strategies include Access improvements to and within town centres and their
residential hinterlands by public transport - including by improved bus services, walking and cycling
and between town centres by improved bus services, more frequent rail services and, where
appropriate, new tram and bus transit schemes.
A close co-ordination of transport and land use development will support Londons development
and growth and help to ensure that Londoners have convenient access to the services and facilities
they need. Good public transport access will not in itself guarantee development but is a necessary
condition for sustainable development.
4.2.12. Improving Londons Open Environment
According to London Plan, the Mayor will work with partners to identify any strategic deficiency in
the provision of publicly accessible open space. London's open spaces include green spaces, such
as parks, allotments, commons, woodlands, natural habitats, recreation grounds, playing fields,
agricultural land, burial grounds, amenity space, childrens play areas, including hard surfaced
playgrounds, and accessible countryside in the urban fringe. Civic spaces, such as squares,
piazzas and market squares also form part of the open space network. The variety and richness of
London's open spaces contribute hugely to its distinctive and relatively open character.
4.2.13. The Crosscutting Policies
This section particular focus is on London Plan objective, to make London a more attractive, well-
designed and green city and to become an exemplary, sustainable world city, London must use
natural resources more efficiently, increase its re-use of resources and reduce levels of waste and
environmental degradation.
Through the objectives and policies set out in the strategies on Municipal Waste Management, Air
Quality, Energy, Biodiversity and Ambient Noise, the Mayor will work with partners to give a
stronger emphasis to the prevention of environmental problems in London.
According to the plan, London should become a more sustainable and self-sufficient city, healthier
to live in and more efficient in its use of resources. It should also be a better neighbor to its
surrounding regions by consuming more of its own waste and producing less pollution.
The London plan also proposes strategies and policies based on national policy for waste,
minerals, improving air quality, improving use of energy, efficient use of water, reducing noise,
tracking the climate change and contamination of land.

Planning for Waste
In order to meet the national policy aim, that most waste should be treated or disposed of
within the region in which it is produced (regional self-sufficiency) the Mayor will work in
partnership with the London boroughs, the Environment Agency, statutory waste disposal
authorities and operators to ensure that facilities with sufficient capacity to manage 75 per cent of
waste arising within London are provided by 2010, rising to 80 per cent by 2015 and 85 per cent by
2020. An early alteration to the Plan will seek to bring forward regional self sufficiency targets for
individual waste streams.
The London plan also proposes Spatial policies for waste management, in which the Mayor will
promote the co-ordination of the boroughs waste policies and strategic guidance which will
evaluate the adequacy of existing strategically important waste management and disposal facilities
to meet Londons future needs. It also gives Criteria for the selection of sites for waste
management and disposal.



43
Planning for Minerals
London needs a reliable supply of materials to support high levels of building and transport
construction. These materials include land-won sand and gravel, crushed rock, marine sand and
gravel and recycled and alternative materials. There are relatively small reserves of land-won sand
and gravel in London. Since Aggregates are bulky materials the London plan policy proposes to
maximize their use and re-use and minimize their movement, especially by road. The plans Policy
on sustainable design and construction will be important in helping to reduce the demand for
natural materials. The proximity principle dictates the best and most local use of materials that can
be extracted in London.

Improving Air Quality
In accordance with the objectives of the National Air Quality Strategy, the Mayors Air Quality
Strategy seeks to minimize the emissions of key pollutants and to reduce concentrations to
levels at which no, or minimal, effects on human health are likely to occur. London also feels the
need for improving the integration of land use and transport policy and reducing the need to travel
especially by car, and ensuring this at the planning application stage. The Mayor also plans to work
with strategic partners to ensure that the spatial, transport and design policies of the plan
support Air Quality Strategy. Strategies also proposes working in partnership with relevant
organizations, taking appropriate steps to achieve an integrated approach to air quality
management and to achieve emissions reductions through improved energy efficiency and energy
use.

Improving the Use of Energy
The plan requires London to become more energy efficient and use more energy from
renewable sources. In taking forward the spatial implications of the Mayors Energy Strategy, the
plan represents an opportunity to improve the sustainability and environmental performance of
Londons built environment. This applies to both new development and the existing built form. In
support of these London wide targets the Energy Strategy includes policies requesting boroughs to
set consistent targets for the generation of renewable energy in their areas, to install at least one
zero carbon development and to identify Energy Action Areas. The plan also proposes
requirement for Energy assessment for major development projects and hence contribute
towards improving the use of energy efficiently.

Efficient Use of Water
The Mayor recognizes that additional water infrastructure will be required to facilitate Londons
growth. A clean and reliable supply of water is a fundamental need of everyone. London has a
high-quality reliable water supply much of which is supplied from outside London. The
concentration of people and services within London leads to pressure on supplies during periods of
prolonged hot weather when water usage increases. This pressure is likely to increase in the future
with the predicted climate change of London. In order to ensure that adequate sustainable water
resources are available for major new development the mayor has proposed certain strategies like,
minimizing the use of treated water, maximizing rainwater harvesting opportunities, using
grey water recycling systems, reaching cost-effective minimum leakage levels keeping under
review the need for additional sources of water supply in future. There is also proposal to improve
the present water and sewerage infrastructure for preventing water pollution.

Reducing Noise
As London becomes a more compact, even busier city according to the plan, London will need a
more vigorous approach to noise reduction at the strategic and local level. Hence the Plan
proposes strategies to reduce noise through spatial planning.


44
Tackling Climate Change
London is already feeling the effects of climate change. Sea-level rise relative to the land is now
widely accepted as occurring at 6mm/year at high tide in the London area. A significant proportion
of future development will be in east London, which could be increasingly at risk from tidal flooding.
Preventative and adaptive measures will therefore be needed, including the construction of
appropriate flood defenses in new developments. It also identified a number of climate change
impact that could affect London in future and proposes policies to address this issue.
4.2.14. Implementing the London Plan
After all the efforts put in for preparing the Plan, the Plan need to be implemented properly without
which it will only remain as a piece of a document. Hence implementation process of the Plan plays
a vital role in the planning process. In case of London Plan, the Mayor cannot implement the
London Plan alone. He has to work with Londoners and a range of stakeholders including the GLA
group, boroughs, the government and statutory agencies, the private sector, the voluntary and
community sectors and others to ensure that the objectives and policies in this Plan are
implemented. The Mayor also must have regard to the resources available to implement this Plan
(people, institutions, funding, policy vehicles, information and natural resources).

The Plans Sphere of Influence
The London Plan itself is a statutory document. It is the main vehicle for strategic decision-making
on Londons development. Figure 4.2 shows the main areas of spatial development that the Plan
will directly influence.
Source- London Plan 2004
Main spheres of influence are:
Development decisions: These include, for example, proposals to develop new housing or to
regenerate town centres. Most of these decisions will be taken by the private sector and will have to
be taken in the context of the plans policies.
Investment decisions with a spatial impact: These include, for example, decisions on funding of
transport or utilities infrastructure or on major land acquisitions. Both public and private sectors will
make these decisions, which will be strongly influenced by the plans policies.
Figure 4.2. Main Sphere of Influences of the London Plan


45
Other spatial policy vehicles: These will have to be formulated within the policies of the plan and
may be at sub-regional level, such as Sub- Regional Development Frameworks, or at local level,
which must be in general conformity with the London Plan.
Decisions that regulate proposals for development and especially development control, which is
exercised by the boroughs and, in specified cases, the Mayor. These decisions must reflect the
policies of this plan.

The Mayors role in Implementation
The Mayor controls major elements of the policy and resources needed for the implementation of
the London Plan. These include the full range of statutory strategies and the budgets of the GLA
group. The GLA group comprises the GLA, Transport for London, the London Development
Agency, the Metropolitan Police Authority and the London Fire & Emergency Planning Authority.
The group works together to achieve the Mayors vision for London. This means strategic planning,
transport economic development and public safety decisions and expenditures can be made in an
integrated way.
4.2.15. Monitoring and Review of the Plan
The Mayor will publish an Annual Monitoring Report that measures progress on the London Plan
against a set of specific targets. He will involve key stakeholders in this review process and
consider any policy adjustments needed to keep the Plan on track. The Mayor also will hear
Londoners views on the issues and will create a network that can be used to gather stakeholder
opinion and feedback. The London Plan has also developed performance indicators to monitor the
key elements of each of the six objectives set out in the Plan.
4.2.16. Environmental Consideration in London Plan
The Plan recognizes environment as one of the major international force driving change in London,
hence the plan tries to address the environmental concern in the Plan. The environmental
sensitivity in the London Plan starts from the document itself, the London Plan document itself is an
environmental friendly document, which is printed on 50 per cent post consumer recycled paper, 50
per cent totally chlorine free pulp, and printed with vegetable oil based inks. Like the document, the
proposal and strategies for London, proposed in the London Plan, have given enough thought for
environmental concern. The environmental consideration in the plan are given below-
Plan Preparation Stage
The London Plan has to go through a Sustainable appraisal as a requirement of the
Greater London Authority Act 1999, to ensure sustainability development.
Mayors Vision
The mayor wishes to develop London as a sustainable world city, based on the theme
fundamental improvements in Londons environment and use of resources
The London Plan
Environmental objective of the Plan- to accommodate Londons growth within its
boundaries without encroaching on open spaces and to make London a more attractive,
well-designed and green city
To promote sustainable development the London Plan proposes, optimizing the use of
previously developed land and vacant or underused buildings.
According to London Plan, The Mayor and the LDA and other agencies and sub regional
partnerships should, support the establishment of green industries and green practices in
business.


46
Environmental industries- address issues of air and noise pollution, climate change, waste
management and fuel poverty, building on policies in the Mayor's five environmental
strategies covering energy, waste management, ambient noise, air quality and biodiversity.
The London Plan promotes sustainable transport system.
The London Plan through the objectives and policies set out in the strategies on Municipal
Waste Management, Air Quality, Energy, Biodiversity and Ambient Noise, the Mayor plans
to work with partners to give a stronger emphasis to the prevention of environmental
problems in London.
The London Plan also proposes strategies and policies based on national policy for waste,
minerals, improving air quality, improving use of energy, efficient use of water, reducing
noise, tracking the climate change and contamination of land.

Note- for a comprehensive list of the content of the London Plan 2004 refer Appendix - C
4.3. The Case of Master Plan Delhi 2021
The process of planned development of the national capital began with enactment of the Delhi
Development Act 1957, followed by the promulgation of the Master Plan in 1962. Master plan is a
legal document prepared under the Delhi Development Act 1957, by the Delhi Development
Authority (DDA). The power of the master plan was realized during the 1995 court case;
environmental lawyer M. C. Mehta argued that Delhi industries and government agencies were not
abiding by the citys zoning regulations spelled out in the Delhi Master Plan. The Master Plan,
published in 1990, had divided the city into functionally segregated zones and prohibited hazardous
and small-scale industries from operating in many of these. Indias Supreme Court ruled in favor of
Mr. Mehta, directing hundreds of hazardous and small-scale industries operating in non-
conforming areas to relocate outside the metropolitan region at the periphery of the larger National
Capital Region (NCR).
15
The latest Master Plan for Delhi was published in 2005 in the Gazette of
India; this is the third master plan for Delhi, the Master Plan is also known as MPD-2021. After four
decades of master planning process the Master Plan Claims to have incorporated the lessons
learnt from the past experiences and taken into account all that have happened in Delhi and try to
introduce approaches which will ensure further development in consonance with the requisites of
modern living and within acceptable environmental parameters.
4.3.1. The Process of Preparing The Master Plan
Given below is the procedure prescribed in the Delhi Development Act, 1957-
Public notice regarding preparation of Master Plan- As soon as may be after the draft master plan
has been prepared, the authority shall publish a public notice stating that-
a) The draft master plan has been prepared and may be inspected by any person at such
time and place may be specified in those notice;
b) Suggestions and objection in writing, if any, in respect of the draft master plan may be filed
by any person with secretary of the authority within 90 days from the date of first
publication of the notice.
Mode of publication of public notice- the authority shall cause the said notice to be published in the
manner published in the manner prescribes by section 44 of the Act and may also cause it to be
published in the official gazette.

15
Alley K. D., Meadows D., (2004), Workers' Rights and Pollution Control in Delhi Human Rights Dialogue:
Environmental Rights, [Online], Available: http://www.carnegiecouncil.org/viewMedia.php/prmTemplateID/
8/prmID/4451 [9 January 2006]


47
Notice to and representation from local authorities- the authority shall cause a copy of the notice
referred to in rule 6 to be sent to every local authority within whose limits any land touched by the
plan in situate, and such local authority may, within a period of 90 days from the date of the notice
make any representation with respect to the plan to the authority.
Appointment of board for enquiry and hearing - the authority shall, for hearing and considering any
representation, objection and suggestion to the draft master plan, appoint a board consisting of not
less than 3 and not more than 5 members of the authority.
Enquiry and hearing- the secretary shall, after the expiry of the period allowed under these rules for
making objections, representations and suggestions fix a date or dates for hearing by the board of
any person, or local authority in respect of the Draft Master Plan and shall serve on the local
authority or any person who may be allowed a personal hearing in connection with such
representation, objection or suggestion to the draft master plan, a notice intimating the time, date
and place of the hearing.
Report of enquiry- the board shall after the conclusion of its enquiry, submit to the Authority a report
of its recommendations.
Preparation of final draft master plan and submission to central government- the authority shall,
after considering the report of the board and any other matter it thinks fit, finally prepare the master
plan and submit it to the central government for its approval.
Approval of central government to amendment of master plan- immediately after a plan has been
approved by the central government, the authority shall publish in such manner as may be
prescribed by regulation a notice stating that a plan has been approved and naming a place where
a copy of the plan may be inspected at all reasonable hours and upon the date of the first
publication of the aforesaid notice the plan shall come into operation.
Figure 4.3. Delhi master plan preparation process

The content of the master plan
According to the Delhi development (master plan and Zonal Development Plan) rules, 1959 the
Content of the draft master plan may include all or any of the following:
Approval
Final Master Plan
Responses considered by an
Authority Appointed Board
Delhi Development Authority
Draft master plan
Within 90 Days
Public notice, notice to and
representation from local
authorities

Inspection by the public-
inviting suggestion or
objections

Enquiry and hearing
Report of enquiry
Final Draft Master Plan
Submission to Central
Government


48
a) reports of the survey and analysis of socio-economic features of Delhi with special
reference to the trends of growth of population, industries, business, commerce and such
other matters as may relate to planned development;
b) a Land use plan based upon such survey of the present use of land as may be necessary
as well as analysis of estimated future needs and consisting of comprehensive proposals
for most desirable utilization of land such as land for agriculture, government, commercial,
industries, residential, cultural, educational, recreational, transportation and other activities:
c) a transit and transportation plan based upon reports of survey and inventory of volume of
traffic and capacity of existing roads, highways and consisting of proposals for a system of
street roads, highways and parking, loading, unloading and terminal facilities:
d) a public utilities plan consisting of proposals for provision of water, electricity, drainage
and disposal of sewage and refuse;
e) a housing plan consisting of estimates of housing requirements and proposals for parks,
open spaces, recreational, educational and cultural centres;
f) reports of survey and proposals for elimination of slums and blighted area;
g) education, recreational and community facilities plan indicating proposals for parks, open
spaces, recreational, educational and cultural centres;
h) a financial plan containing capital improvement programme, estimate of revenue and
resources, estimates and objective of public services any such other fiscal matters and
proposals for the implementation in stages of the master plan;
i) an administrative plan consisting of proposals and recommendations for the
administrative structure and procedure and processes such as zoning, sub-division and
proposals for the implementation in stages of the master plan:
j) Such other reports on scientific Development Plans, satellite township schemes, industrial
estate schemes, relocation of rehousing schemes, or improvement programmes or any
specified purpose as in the opinion of the authority are necessary or desirable for the
planned development of Delhi.
From the list of items mentioned above to be considered in the Master Plan, there is no a special
mention or concerns for environment. The Delhi development (Master Plan and Zonal Development
Plan) rules, 1959 also mentions that, the Master Plan may include all or any of the above items, the
inclusion of the above list of items in the Master Plan, hence the content decision is left totally at the
discretion of the Development Authority.
4.3.2. The Vision
The vision according to Master Plan 2021 is to make Delhi a global metropolis and a world-class
city, where all the people are engaged in productive work with a decent standard of living and
quality of life in a sustainable environment. For achieving this vision, the Delhi Master Plan plans
to necessitate planning and action to meet the challenge of population growth and migration into
Delhi and even measures to restrict it to the extent possible, provision of adequate housing,
particularly for the weaker section of the society, addressing problems of small enterprises,
particularly in the unorganized informal sector dealing with the issues of slums, both as an issue
pertaining to the city scape and a shelter: up-gradation of old and dilapidated areas of the city,
provision of adequate infrastructure services, conservation of environment, preservation of
Delhis heritage and blending it with the new and complex modern patterns of development and
they plan to do all these a framework of sustainable development.
4.3.3. Validity of Population Projections
In the NCT of Delhi under the National Capital Region Planning Board Act, 1985, the basic policy is
to achieve environmentally sustainable development / re-development considering the limitations of


49
developable land and water. Land and water are scare natural resource, which also acts as major
limiting factor for any city development. Land and water will help to derive the basic carrying
capacity of an area; based on it a desirable population can be derived which the city can sustain
without, environmental degradation both physical and natural. But the normal practice which is
generally followed, is carrying out population projection for predicting the future population, same is
the case with Delhi master plan 2021 (MPD-2021). The master plan itself mention that it may not be
possible to make an accurate forecast, so it provides a population range and for the purpose of
accounting the requirement of land, provision of infrastructure and transportation the higher range
is taken into consideration. The MPD-2021 does not take the basic policy Of NCT into
consideration. In an ideal case one needs to calculate what a city can offer to the citizens mainly
the natural resource like land and water and arrive at the carrying capacity of the city, rather than
projecting some numbers which cant be achieved and hence leads to questioning the validity of the
Master Plan.
4.3.4. Accommodating Population for 2021
At present, about 702 sq.km is estimated to have been developed as built up areas accommodating
about 138 lakh populations of National Capital Territory of Delhi. In order accommodate the
projected population of 230 lakh by the year 2021, it recommends three-pronged strategy like
Checking the population growth in Delhi, Increasing the population holding capacity of the area
within existing urban limits, and also deflect part of the population in the NCR outside Delhi; and
extending the present urban limits to the extent necessary.
The MPD-21 does not give any details, about the way the population growth will be checked and
regarding increasing the population holding capacity there is no mention about the method on
which the holding capacity is based. The strategy to extend the urban limit will engulf a lot of
rural/agricultural land in Delhi and would lead to loss of the original character of these settlements.
4.3.5. Hierarchy of Urban Development
According to the Delhi Master Plan, a planned city for an environment of convenience should have
a hierarchical cellular structure; with nuclei to contain essential facilities and services at different
levels. The pattern of a community module is conceived as residential area containing a
neighborhood with senior school and shopping facilities for day-to-day needs as focal points. The
higher level of additional facilities is to be provided at Community, District and Zonal/sub-city levels.
It gives a detail list of facilities to be provided at each level, in the hierarchy Solid waste
management facility is mentioned only at neighborhood level (Dhalao including segregation).
There is no mention of solid waste storage and disposal site/facility at any higher level, while
Sewerage and water supply has been given a good though-out the hierarchy of urban
development.
4.3.6. Redevelopment of Existing Urban Area
Redevelopment exercise for the walled city, the MPD-2021 has specified minimum road width and
prioritized of road widening dictated by fire and other disaster management criteria. For
efficient and optimum utilization of the existing urban land, both in planned and unplanned areas, a
redevelopment strategy for accommodating more population in a planned manner is to be taken up
on priority in all use zones according to MPD-2021, and this is to be based on provision of
infrastructure viz. water supply, sewerage, road network, open spaces and the essential social
infrastructure, which is a relevant for any redevelopment strategy.


50
4.3.7. Shelter
The Plan policy regarding Shelter is based on The National Housing and Habitat Policy, which
has the ultimate goal to ensure Shelter for All by harnessing the potential of the public, private/
corporate and household sectors. It aims to ensure effective housing and shelter options for all
citizens, especially for the vulnerable groups and the poor, by creation of adequate housing stock
on either rental or ownership basis. The Delhi Master Plan gives a proper Indicative Distribution in
Housing Types, identifies strategies and provides guidelines. It also recommended that every
housing scheme taken up by any agency at least 10 percent of the saleable net residential land
should be reserved for EWS housing.
The Housing strategy of MPD-21 incorporates specific approaches for development of new housing
areas, up gradation and intensification through redevelopment of existing housing areas including
unauthorized colonies, housing in villages and Special Area with consideration of fire safety and
disaster management facilities. It proposes to develop market with close proximity to the
residential area to overcome the environmental and traffic problems. MPD-21 also tried to address
some environmental issues through norms for physical infrastructure planning in housing, like
rainwater harvesting should be integrated, natural drainage should not be disturbed, dual pipe
system of recycled water recommended, use of non-conventional sources of energy for public
areas and provision of decentralized sewerage treatment plant.
4.3.8. Trade and Commerce
Shopping and commercial areas reflect the economy and the image of the city. MPD-21 has
attempted to introduce environmental issues into the image of the city through proposal like
incorporation of roof top harvesting system, separate dry and wet dustbins, arrangements for solid
waste disposal, preliminary effluent treatment and introduction of energy audits for the commercial
establishment in the city.
4.3.9. Disaster and Hazards
Disaster management is considered as an important component of the Delhi Master Plan 2021, the
location and Storage of oil and LPG gas is considered based disaster management. It has well
planned fire regulation and bye laws to safeguard against disasters and ensure effective and
impartial enforcement. But lately issues of the new treats emerging like induced hazards like riots,
terrorism (Bomb blast), etc. this are new issues that need to be looked into. There is a need for
identification of the riots vulnerable area and include it in the Disaster Management Plan for the
city, to avoid damage both to social and physical environment.
4.3.10. Industry
The issue of industries in Delhi has been a subject of extensive debate, controversy and concern
over the past decade. This has centered mainly on the aspects of pollution and negative
environmental impact of industries, the existence and continued growth of industries in non
conforming areas and the issue of classification and permissibility with reference to household
industries. Serious concern has been expressed regarding the continued existence and further
proliferation of industries in contravention of the provisions made in MPD 2001.
The strategies proposed for non-conforming industries are, taking corrective measures with regard
to industries in non-conforming industrial areas in terms of environmental and other norms as may
be prescribed. To provide suitable incentives and disincentives, and other measures, for shifting
and relocation of industrial units not conforming to the land use norms. The MPD-2021 also spells
out norms based on environmental consideration for redevelopment of cluster of industrial
concentration in non-conforming and the industry use zone guidelines/ development controls. The


51
guidelines includes environmental issues like preservation of water bodies, provision of green
buffer for roads, rainwater harvesting integrated in landscape and storm water drains, provision of
CETPs, solid waste treatment plant and disaster planning for emergency situations.
4.3.11. Environment
Creation of a sustainable physical and social environment for improving quality of life is one
of the major objectives of the Delhi Master Plan 2021. The master plan of Delhi, environment can
essentially be seen in terms of two components of urban management- the environment per se, or
the habitat, and services management. The former pertains to the natural features and resources
including: the elements of air and noise, water (water bodies-river, lakes, drains and ponds- and
ground water) and land with reference to open spaces, green areas and other surface and sub-
surface conditions. The latter is related to the built environment and includes the environmental
infrastructure - water supply, sewerage, solid waste disposal, and the transportation network.
The following three fold approach and strategy are adopted in the master plan
i) Management of Natural Resources and the related environment infrastructure and services in a
manner that would lead to optimization of use of natural resources, and reduction/abatement of
pollution;
ii) Conservation and Development of the Natural features with a view to enhancing their
environmental value; and
iii) Development and preservation of open spaces, greens and landscape/ recreational areas.
4.3.12. Natural Resource
Water (surface and ground)
Rapid urbanization leading to reduction in recharge of aquifer, increasing demand in the agriculture,
industrial and domestic sectors, stress put on groundwater resources in periods of drought/deficient
rainfall, and unplanned withdrawal from the sub soil aquifers, have been mainly responsible for
decline in groundwater levels in Delhi. The ground water board has also assessed the present
ground water potential for Delhi.
The average annual rainfall in Delhi is 611 mm. However, recharge of ground water gets limited
due to decreased availability of permeable surfaces owing to urbanization, and the runoff getting
diverted into the sewers or storm water drains that convey the water into the river Yamuna. The
annual rainwater harvesting potential has been assessed along with potential for roof water
harvesting for the city of Delhi. The master plan also identifies measure for rejuvenation of river
Yamuna.
Air Pollution
Despite various initiatives and measures taken over the past few years, like introduction of CNG
and EURO II norms etc., the air quality in the city, in terms of pollution levels, has continued to be a
matter of concern, and has been responsible for a number of respiratory diseases, heart ailments,
eye irritation, asthma etc in Delhi. Since vehicles contribution to the pollution is about 70%.
Therefore the Master Plan mentions public transportation planning must, therefore, drive the future
policy.
Noise Pollution
Noise is emerging as a major pollutant and irritant as well as a constant source of disturbance and
health hazards. Against a permissible level of 50-60 dB (A), the sound level in Indian cities often
exceeds 80 dB (A). Faulty and leaking silencers, over-use of horns and vehicles plying on roads
accentuate noise level, besides the noise from commercial and industrial activities, unabated use of
sound amplifiers, generator sets and fire- crackers etc.
The Master Plan proposes Green buffer through thin leaved trees, land formations, mounds,
embankments, etc. along major roads could also provide effective barriers to transmission of noise.


52
By proper land use planning, such as location of public, semi-public and commercial activities along
major transport arteries, a buffer can be created for residential zones. It is also necessary to
improve monitoring and effective implementation of the Noise and to notify certain areas as No
Horn Zones Pollution (Level) Rules 2000.
According to the Master Plan, environmentally stressed zones in Delhi should be identified and
local area environment management plans should be prepared for such areas, together with
regular monitoring.
4.3.13. Physical Infrastructure
The Master Plan mentions infrastructure as a key issue related to the sustainable development of
Delhi, and a minimum quality and standard of living pertains to the availability and accessibility to
basic infrastructure facilities viz. water, power, sewerage, drainage and solid waste management.
The rapid and almost uncontrolled growth of population has put these facilities under severe
pressure, and there are significant deficiencies. Even a cursory analysis of the present state of
affairs, infrastructure problems could become a cause of crisis. Sewerage and solid waste
management are State affairs but water supply, power and drainage are Inter-State issues.
Water
The Master Plan proposes that the planning should dovetail watershed management, and arrest
the run-off. It should ensure the conservation of natural valleys, water bodies and aquifers. The
concepts of zero run-off drainage, with retention ponds, sediments traps and balancing lakes
should be adopted, with a segregated wastewater disposal system. A green network overlapping
the blue network would protect the ecology of aquifers, and also provide a pleasant environment.
Simple methods of site planning, which incorporate porous/semi permeable paving, drop inlet/down
pipe, sediment trap, retention ponds, etc. will contribute in maintaining ground water table.
There are also innovative proposals like- Water supply in new areas should incorporate separate
lines one for washing, water coolers and garden taps, the second for supplying potable water. All
non-residential buildings having a discharge of over 10,000 liters a day should incorporate a
wastewater recycling.
Sewage
The existing capacity of sewerage system is grossly inadequate, thus leading to increasing
pollution in the river Yamuna. The master plan proposes short range provision of low cost sanitation
system by individual families, where immediate regular system is not available.
To reduce the sewerage load and increase environmental benefits, the Master Plan proposes
decentralized STPs with smaller capacities are to be provided at the sub city level (10 lakh
population). The Master Plan also mentions Possibilities of recovering energy/ gas as fuel from
sewerage.
Drainage
Drainage has two aspects: flood protection and storm water discharge, which are interrelated. The
storm water and flood protection in Delhi has a regional bearing including areas of Haryana and
Rajasthan. Since Delhi also has water crises, the MPD-21 gives proposal for check dams and
depression/ lakes for increasing recharge of groundwater table. The Master Plan proposes the
following essential measures for proper drainage, Drainage to be integral part of Road
Development Plans/ flyover/ Grade Separators and GIS based drainage mapping and planning.
During this planning and design of drainage it proposes that the natural drainage pattern should be
preserved.
Power
The MPD-21 proposes that, the concept of energy efficiency for Delhi should begin with idea of
Zero-fossil Energy Development which envisages an urban form and design of passive buildings
envelope that reduce the demand for power to the point where it becomes economically viable to


53
use energy from renewable resources. This would involve a holistic approach combining the issues
and actions at various levels of planning, design, construction and maintenance leading to a
sustainable and energy efficient regime. The MPD-21 introduces energy audit and design of energy
efficient buildings; it also proposes stipulation for all establishments with floor area of more than
300 Sqm, solar energy should be mandatory. Compulsory solar panels for public advertising,
lighting in open areas, public utilities, streets, etc.
Solid Waste
The problem of solid waste management in Delhi is assuming serious proportions due to increasing
population, urbanization, changing lifestyles and consumption patterns. The garbage from
unauthorized developments, slums, JJ settlements, etc is not collected which further adds to the
environmental degradation.
Considering the nature of solid waste and the economic aspects of its disposal, major part of solid
waste especially silt has to be disposed off in sanitary landfills. The Master Plan proposes-
wherever recycling is possible, it should be preferred than disposing off the waste in sanitary landfill
sites. More viable alternatives to landfills are vermiculture, fossilisation, composting etc. Waste
Minimization Circles (WMCs) should be constituted and made effective. Implementation and
monitoring of Bio-Medical Wastes (Handling & Management) Rules, 1998, for hospitals, nursing
homes, and clinics should be taken up.
4.3.14. Monitoring Framework for Development
Plan monitoring is essential to evaluate the changes required to improve the quality of life in the
city. The MPD-21 feels the need of a scientific monitoring framework for:
1) Effective implementation of plan within the plan period, thereby achieving the intended targets.
2) Respond to the changing socioeconomic needs of the people of the city.
3) To check unintended growth within the city.
4) Time lags between various implementation schemes and emerging needs of the people.
5) Review the appropriateness of the plan policies.
The monitoring framework for development is proposed in MPD-21 along with targets which need
to be achieved in a particular time-frame and hence help in judging the performance of various
sectors, whichever need priority. It also fells a need of a dedicated monitoring unit with modern data
processing facilities, which would be responsible for collection and analysis of primary and
secondary data, and bringing the important changes to the notice of the authority.
4.3.15. Review of the Previous Plan
Some of the broad parameters in the light of which a review could be usefully done would relate to
the extend and validity of population projections, quantum of land needed for development as per
the plans and the extent to which this actually become available, qualitative and quantitative targets
for the development of shelters and the required infrastructure services and the actual
achievements in this regards and other important developments which were not anticipated, but
impinge heavily on the entire process of the planned development of Delhi.
As regards to the actual acquisition and development of land, studies made for the preparation of
MPD-2021 show that there have been gaps between the area targeted for, and for actually
acquired, as also between the area acquired and that, which could be developed. Another
important observation during the period of the last Master Plan is the unanticipated phenomenal
growth of automobile in Delhi.
The experience of past two Master Plans also shows that while projections regarding. Various basic
infrastructure services have been made with reference to the population growth projections and the
related increased urbanization requirements; there has been very little practical convergence
between the Master Plan and the actual development of infrastructure services.


54
Actual implementation of the master plan- the practicality and current relevance of some of the
provisions of the master plan do not themselves become a stumbling block or otherwise leave
scope for this violation.
Lessons learnt by the past Master Plan are that, master plan can be seen as a elaborate set of dos
and dont and its success depends on conversion of the policies and strategies outlined in it into
time bound development and action plans, periodic revenues and close monitoring and on the
peoples will and willingness to adhere to discipline in the use of land, roads public space and
infrastructure.
4.3.16. Other Issues Relating to Delhi Master Plan
The Planning process needs reforms and innovations as follow up of the Master Plan had
always been a slow starter and could not meet projected targets adequately such as
preparation of Sub-Regional Plan, Zonal Plans etc.
Others aspects like Environmental concerns, Integrated public transport, Infrastructure
services, enforcement and monitoring up to date maps and basic information have been
other problems.
Local level participation in the planning process its transparency and coordination, building
approvals, slum rehabilitation, social housing and legal reforms also requires attention for
implementation of provisions addressed in the Master Plans.
The apparent and frequent violation of planning and development control norms. There is a
growing variation between the Plan for Delhi and the city on the ground. Hence Plan
Monitoring & Review of Master Plan is essential.
Flexible land use or mixed land use- A major issue that has been debated is that of
segregated land use versus flexible land use, while adhering to the requisites of
environment the current thinking is in favor of flexible land use, which reaps the synergies
between workplace, residence and transportation as also between complementary
vocations. This issue is still debatable, since the extent of flexibility can still be questioned
and hence the relevance of the master plans.
4.3.17. Environmental Consideration in Delhi Master Plan 2021
The Delhi Development (Master Plan and Zonal Development Plan) Rules, 1959 the content of the
Draft Master Plan describes the items that need to be incorporated in the Plan, but it also mentions
that, the Master Plan may include all or any of the items listed. That means that the inclusion of the
list of items in the Master Plan is left totally at the discretion of the development authority. The
content of Delhi Master Plan from the list of items mentioned, to be considered in the Master Plan,
there is no a special mention or concerns for environment. But even after lack of environmental
concern in the regulations, the attempt to incorporate environment in Delhi master plan 2021 is
commendable. The environmental consideration in the Plan are given below-
The Vision
The vision according to Master Plan 2021 is to make Delhi a global metropolis and a world-class
city, where all the people are engaged in productive work with a decent standard of living and
quality of life in a sustainable environment.
The Delhi Master Plan 2021
Environmental objective of the plan- Creation of a sustainable physical and social
environment for improving quality of life.
the Delhi Master Plan gives a detail list of facilities to be provided at each level in the urban
hierarchy, in which Solid waste management facility is mentioned only at neighborhood
level (Dhalao including segregation). There is no mention of solid waste storage and


55
disposal site/facility at any higher level, while sewerage and water supply has been given a
good though-out the hierarchy of urban development.
Redevelopment exercise for the walled city, the MPD-2021 has specified minimum road
width and prioritized of road widening dictated by fire and other disaster management
criteria.
The Housing strategy of MPD-21 incorporates specific approaches for development of new
housing areas, up gradation and intensification through redevelopment of existing housing
areas including unauthorized colonies, housing in villages and Special Area with
consideration of fire safety and disaster management facilities.
MPD-21 also tries to address some environmental issues through norms for physical
infrastructure planning in housing, like rainwater harvesting should be integrated, natural
drainage should not be disturbed, dual pipe system of recycled water recommended, use
of non-conventional sources of energy for public areas and provision of decentralized
sewerage treatment plant.
MPD-21 has attempted to introduce environmental issues into shopping and commercial
areas through proposal like incorporation of roof top harvesting system, separate dry and
wet dustbins, arrangements for solid waste disposal, preliminary effluent treatment and
introduction of energy audits for the commercial establishment.
The MPD-2021 also spells out norms based on environmental consideration for
redevelopment of cluster of industrial concentration in non-conforming and the industry use
zone guidelines/ development controls.
Further to reinforce the natural environment, MPD-2021 proposes the following three fold
approach and strategy- i) Management of Natural Resources and the related environment
infrastructure and services in a manner that would lead to optimization of use of natural
resources, and reduction/abatement of pollution; ii) Conservation and Development of the
Natural features with a view to enhancing their environmental value; and iii) Development
and preservation of open spaces, greens and landscape/ recreational areas.

Note- for a comprehensive list of the content of the Delhi Master Plan 2021 refer Appendix - D
4.4. Conclusion
Each city is unique in its character and each cities have their own issues and problem. If we
compare the plan preparation process of the two cities London and Delhi. The London plan
preparation process is more sensitive towards environment and is more participatory than the Delhi
master Plan. That is because in case of London Plan, the vision of plan is derived from a public
consultation process and the statutory requirement of the sustainable appraisal ensure
environmental incorporation (for comparative analysis refer table 4.1), otherwise the preparation
process of both the cities are quite similar. In case of environmental consideration in the plan, both
the cities have tried to address their environmental issues to the best of their ability, the list of the
component considered are given below in the table 4.2. In case of implementation and monitoring
mechanism, the London plan is more detailed and comprehensive than the Delhi Master Plan. To
guide the implementation process the London plan gives detail phasing of the projects proposed
and for monitoring the London plan, it gives a list of objective-wise performance monitoring
indicator and as a statutory requirement the mayor have to publish an annual monitoring report,
while Delhi Master Plan only gives the development code and monitoring framework for the plan
(refer table 4.3.).



56
Table 4.1. Plan Preparation
London Plan 2004 Delhi Master Plan 2021
Mayor + Greater London Authority Delhi Development Authority
The Greater London Authority Act 1999 The Delhi Development Act 1957
Mayor's Vision + Consultation of the citizens DDA's Vision
Yes No
15-20 years 20 years
3- months 3-months
Yes Yes
Responsible Authority
Act under which the Plan is conceived
Public consultation period
Vision
Sustainable Appraisal
Time span of the Plan
Exclusive panel Public hearing
P
l
a
n

P
r
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n

Table 4.2. Environmental Component in the Plan
To accommodate Londons growth within its
boundaries without encroaching on open
spaces and to make London a more
attractive, well-designed and green city
Creation of a sustainable physical and social
environment for improving quality of life
Support the establishment of green Industries
and green practices
Spell out norms for industries based on
environmental consideration
Reduction of waste, Municipal solid waste
management strategy for the area, spatial
policies, criteria for selection of sites for waste
management and disposal, waste produced
and disposal method.
Recycling of solid waste, alternative to landfills
like- vermiculture, fossilization and composting,
constitution of Waste Minimization Circles and
implementation and monitoring of Bio-Medical
Wastes( Handling & Management) Rules 1998
Better use of aggregates, re-use of
construction and demolition waste
No policy for Minerals
Strategies for -integration of land use and
transport policy, promoting sustainable design
and construction, air quality assessments at
planning stage, promoting cleaner transport
fuels, modeling of scenarios, monitoring plan
Source of pollution, Stress on public
transportation policy, control of designated
industries.
Promoting Energy efficiency and renewable
energy, zero carbon development, technology
and design. Energy assessment of proposed
major developments
Concept of energy efficiency in buildings, Zero-
fossil Development and Energy Audit. Promoting
use of renewable energy as an mandatory
requirement in buildings like use of Solar energy
Demand for Water supplies, Water quality
and strategies, maximizing rainwater
harvesting opportunities, using grey water
recycling systems, repair or replacement of
water supply infrastructure
Demand for water supplies, promoting rainwater
harvesting at building level and site level, concept
of "Zero run-off drainage" protecting the ecology of
aquifers, guidelines for site planning to promote
ground water recharge, waste water recycling.
E
n
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l

C
o
m
p
o
n
e
n
t

C
o
n
s
i
d
e
r
e
d
Energy
Water
Air
Objective considering Environment
Industries
Planning for Waste



57
Table 4.2. Environmental Component in the Plan (Continued)
Improving the present infrastructure in order to
have safe, reliable system and minimizes
environmental damage
Provision of low cost sanitation system where
regular system is not available, Decentralization of
STP's at sub city level and mentions possibility of
recovering energy/ gas as fuel from sewerage
Sustainable Drainage, Promoting Biodiversity,
flood plain and flood defense, Design
guidelines
Source of pollution, indication of measures for
rejuvenation of the river.
spatial Strategies, transportation strategies Permissible limits, implementation of Noise
pollution (level) rules 2000, measures to prevent
noise pollution
Impacts of climate change and strategies issue not considered
Strategies dealing with Hazardous substances Location and storage based on the disaster
management plan.
Affordable housing, Improving conditions for
walking and cycling, design consideration for
disabled, children and old people, developing
the open spaces and recreational area,
biodiversity and nature conservation
conserving the built heritage/ historic
environment and protecting the view.
Housing for poor, planning norms for recreational
and green areas, delineation of heritage zones,
conservation of built heritage, social infrastructure
provision standards(health, education, sport,
security and education)
Climate change
Sewerage system
E
n
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l

C
o
m
p
o
n
e
n
t

C
o
n
s
i
d
e
r
e
d
Hazardous substance
Noise
Living Environment
River

Table 4.3. Implantation and Monitoring
Indicative average annual phasing of growth in
jobs and homes, Phasing of public transport
capacity increases and main stakeholders and
their contribution
Development code
objective-wise London Plan performance
measuring indicators, publish annual
monitoring report- state of strategic planning in
London and set priorities for the coming year
Monitoring framework for development, monitoring
unit
Implementation
Monitoring



58
C
C
h
h
a
a
p
p
t
t
e
e
r
r
5
5
.
.
D De ev ve el lo op pm me en nt t P Pl la an n a an nd d
E En nv vi ir ro on nm me en nt t C Ca as se e o of f A Ah hm me ed da ab ba ad d
5.1. Background
1960 and Ahmedabad was the capital of the state. In 1970 the capital was shifted to Gandhinagar,
but Ahmedabad is still considered the trade capital of Gujarat. The rapid urbanization growth of
urban sprawl of Ahmedabad and increasing population pressure is resulting in deterioration of
infrastructure facilities, loss of productive agricultural lands, green open spaces, loss of surface
water bodies, depletion of ground water aquifers zones, air pollution, water contamination, health
hazards and many micro-climate changes. So in order to guide the growth of the city, a
Development Plan mechanism was needed and was provided by the Gujarat Town Planning and
Urban Development Act, 1976.
5.2. Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976
In the state of Gujarat, the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976 consolidate
and amend the law relating to the making and execution of Development Plans in the state of
Gujarat. In this Act, the Development Plan is defined as a Plan for the development or re-
development or improvement of a development area.
For the first time provision for a Development Plan was made in the Bombay Town Planning Act,
1954, enabling the local authority to prepare the Development Plan for the whole of its area. The
first Development Plan was prepared by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) under the
Bombay Town Planning Act, 1954 and was sanctioned by state government in 1965. The Bombay
Town Planning Act, 1954, provided for preparation of Development Plan for the area of local
municipal authority only. With the increase in trend of urbanization, the development progressed
along the periphery and outside the limits of local authority and there was no control of such
development. Therefore, the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban development Act, 1976, was
enacted which came into force on 01/02/1978. The Act interalia provides that, where the state
government is of the opinion that the object of proper development of any urban area will be best
served by entrusting the work to special authority, it may declare such area as urban development
area, and constitute an urban development Authority for such area
16
.
5.2.1. Delineation of Development area
Under Gujarat Town Planning and Urban development Act, 1976, under section 3 -The state
government may for the purpose of securing planned development of areas within the state,
declare, by notification, and in such other manner as may be prescribed, any area in the state to be
a development area. But there is no basis or criteria for delineation of the development area in the
Act; it is totally left at the discretion of the Government of Gujarat to declare an area as a
development area. Delineation of development area is a political decision, hence one cannot justify
the present form of development area, and the best example is odd shape of the Ahmedabad
development area (refer map 5.1.). In Case of Ahmedabad Development Area, According to the
Draft Development Plan 2011 the basis for delineating the development area is not known till date.

16
AUDA. (1997), Revised draft development plan of AUDA -2011 AD Part ii policies, proposals and programmes,
AUDA, Ahmedabad


59
Map 5.1. AUDA Proposed Landuse 2011 Plan

5.2.2. Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority
The Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976 came into force on the 1
st
February,
1978. The Act, interalia, provides that where the state government is of opinion that the object of
proper development of any urban area will be best served by entrusting the work to a special
authority, it may declare such an area to be an urban development area and constitute an authority
for such area. Accordingly, the government of Gujarat has declared the areas covering Ahmedabad
Municipal Corporation and areas of surrounding other 164 towns and villages to be an urban
development area. Government has also constituted the authority for the said urban development
area to be called the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority(AUDA) under section 22 of the Act.
Function of AUDA
According to section 23 (1) of Gujarat Town & Urban Development Act 1976, the function and
powers are grouped, according to the nature of activities.
(a) Planning Function
To undertake the preparation of Development Plan under the provisions of the act, for the
urban development area.
To undertake the preparation of Town Planning Scheme under the provisions of the act, if
so directed by the state government
To carry out the surveys in the urban development area for the preparation of Development
Plans or town planning schemes.
(b) Implementation Function
To execute works in connection with water supply, disposal of sewerage and provision of
other services and amenities.
Source- AUDA, 1997


60
To carry any development works in the urban development area as may be assigned to it
by the state government from time to time.
(c) Coordination function
To guide assist and direct the local authority or bodies and other authorities functioning in
the urban development areas in the matter pertaining to the planning, development and
regulation of urban area.
(d) Enforcement Function
To control the development activities in accordance with the Development Plan in the
urban development area.
(e) Powers
To acquire, hold, manage and dispose of property, movable or immovable as it deems if
necessary.
To enter into contracts, agreements or with a local authority person or organization as the
urban development may consider necessary for performing functions.
To exercise such other powers and perform such other functions as are supplemental,
incidental or consequential to any of the fore going powers and functions or as may
directed by the state government.
The urban development authority may with the approval of state government delegate any
of its function to the local authority or authorities functioning in the urban development
area.
5.2.3. Content of a Draft Development Plan under Section 12 of the Act.
A draft Development Plan shall generally indicate the manner in which the use of land in the area
covered by it shall be regulated and also indicate the manner in which the development there in
shall be carried out.
In particular, it shall provide, so far as be necessary, for all or any of the following matters, namely:-
a. proposals for designating the use of the land for residential, industrial, commercial,
agricultural and recreational purposes;
b. proposals for the reservation of land for public purposes, such as schools, colleges and
other educational institutions, medical and public health institutions, markets, social welfare
and cultural institutions, theatres and places for public entertainment, public assembly,
museums, art galleries, religious buildings, playground, stadiums, open spaces, diaries and
for such other purposes as may, from time to time, be specified by the state government:
c. proposals for designation of areas for zoological gardens, green belts, natural
reserves and sanctuaries;
d. transport and communications, such as roads, highways, parkways, railways waterways,
canals and airport, including their extension and development:
e. proposals for water supply, drainage, sewage disposal, other public utility amenities and
services including supply of electricity and gas;
f. reservation of land for community facilities and services;
g. proposals for designation of sites for services industries, industrial estates and any other
industrial development on an extensive scale;
h. preservation, conservation and development of areas of natural scenery and
landscape;
i. preservation of features, structures or places of historical, natural, architectural or scientific
interest and of educational value;
j. proposals for flood control and prevention of river pollution;
k. proposals for reservation of land for propose of union, any state, local authority or any
other authority or body established by or under any law for the time being in force;


61
l. the filling up or reclamation of low lying, swampy or unhealthy areas or leveling up of land;
m. provision for controlling and regulating the use and development of land within the
development area, including imposition of conditions and restriction in regard to open
space to be maintained for buildings the percentage of building area for a plot, the location,
number, size, height, number of stories and character of buildings and density of built up
area allowed in specified area, the use and purposes to which a building or specified areas
of land may or may not be appropriated, the sub-divisions of plots, the discontinuance of
objectionable uses of land may or may not be appropriated, the sub-divisions of plots, the
discontinuance of objectionable uses of land in any area in any specified periods, parking
spaces, loading and unloading space for any building and the sizes of projections and
advertisement signs and hoardings and other matters as may be considered necessary for
carrying out the objects of this Act;
n. provision for prevention or removing pollution of water or air caused by the
discharge of waste or other means as a result of the use of land;
o. Such other proposals for public or other purposes as may from time to time be approved by
the area development authority or as may be directed by the state Government in this
behalf.
Shortfall in the Content of a Draft Development Plan under Section 12 of the Act
The content of the Development Plan specifies the use of land in the area, but there is no
mention about the use of water bodies and the river or rivulets. And apart from preventing
water pollution there is no mention of preservation of such water bodies from
encroachment.
There is no proposal for reservation of land in the Development Plan for economically
backward class of people or the urban poor who dwell in the slums. There is only provision
of land for economically backward class in the Town planning scheme (extent of 10%
reservation).
The Development Plan provides for supply of water, there is no provision to control the
ground water extraction which is a major concern in Gujarat.
There is no provision of preservation of areas of social, religious or sentimental value.
The Development Plan does not have provision to identify the riot prone or vulnerable
places which caused major loss in term of life and property to the cities like the riots of
2002.
5.2.4. The Development Plan Making Mechanism
Preparation of the Draft Development Plan
After declaration of an area by the government as a development area, and after constituting an
authority for such area, under section 9.(1) of the act no later than three years after the declaration
of such area as a development area or within such time as the state government may, from time to
time, extend, the development authority has to prepare and submit to the state government a Draft
Development Plan for the whole or any part of the development area in accordance with the
provisions of the Act.

Inspection by the public
After preparation of the Draft Development Plan, and submitted to the state government under
section 9, published it in the official gazette and in such other manner, a copy of the Plan as
prepared under section 9 in respect of any area shall be kept open for inspection by the public
under section 10, during office hours at the head office of the area development authority, or as the
case may be, at the office of the authorized officer, inviting suggestion or objections from any


62
person with respect to the Development Plan within a period of two months from the date of its
publication.

Suggestions or Objections and Modification if required
Within two months of publication of Draft Development Plan, any person communicated in writing to
the area development authority, or, as the case may be, to the authorized officer any suggestion or
objections relating to the Draft Development Plan, the said authority or officer shall consider such
suggestions or objections and may modify such Plan as it or he thinks fit. The Modification made
after publication of Draft Development Plan, is kept inspection by the public for inviting suggestion
and objections from any person with respect to the proposed modifications within a period of two
months from the date of publication of such notice.

Submission of the Draft Development Plan
The Submission of Draft Development Plan to the state government for sanction under section 16.
(1) Of the Act should be within a period of six months from the date of publication of the Draft
Development Plan under section 13. The said period or periods shall be extended but shall not, in
any case, exceed twelve months in the aggregate.
Upon receipt of the Draft Development Plan under section 16, the state government may, by
notification-
1. Sanction the Draft Development Plan and the regulation so received , within the prescribed
period, within the prescribed period, for the whole of the area covered by the Plan or
separately by any apart thereof, either without modification, or subject to such modification,
as it may consider proper;
2. Return the Draft Development Plan and the regulation to the area development authority
or, as the case may be, to the authorized officer, for modifying the Plan and the regulations
in such manner as it may direct:
3. Refuse to accord sanction to the Draft Development Plan and the regulations and direct the
area development authority or the authorized officer to prepare a fresh Development Plan
under the provision of the Act.

Extension or reduction of Development Plan
If at any time after a Development Plan prepared for any area has been sanction, the state
government is of opinion that it is necessary to extend or reduce the limits of such area, it may, by
notification, extended or reduce the limits of such area under section 18. (1). May direct the area
development authority to prepare, publish and submit to the state government for sanction within
the period specified by the state government in this behalf, a Draft Development Plan for the
extended area or, as the case may be, the proposals for the withdrawal of the Plan from the
reduced area after following the procedure prescribed under this Act for the preparation,
publication, and sanction of a Development Plan.

Revision of Development Plan
Under section 21of the Act. at least once in ten years from the date on which a final development
plan comes into force, the area development authority shall revise the Development Plan after
carrying out, if necessary a fresh survey shall be conducted.

Restriction on development after publication of Draft Development Plan
On or after the date on which a draft Development Plan is published in the official gazette under
section 13 in respect of any development area, no person shall carry on any development in any
building or in or over any land, within the limits of the said area without the permission in writing of
the appropriate authority and without obtaining certificate from the appropriate.


63
Figure 5.1. The Development Plan Making Mechanism
5.3. Environment and Development Plan Ahmedabad
As the chief metropolitan of the state, urban planning and development was going on in isolated
manner, confined mainly to the areas of the local authorities of cities and towns. For the first time,
ideas of integrated and area approach to the problems of urban planning and development
programme was introduced through the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act 1976
and the first Development Plan was prepared by Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority
(AUDA) in 1981. Before one starts to prepare a Development Plan, one has to have a demarcated
development area. But in case of Ahmedabad the very basis on which the Ahmedabad urban
development area was delineated, is not available.
17
There is no reasoning or justification for
including or exclusion of certain area in Ahmedabad urban development area.

17
AUDA. (1997), Revised draft development plan of AUDA -2011 AD Part ii policies, proposals and programmes,
AUDA, Ahmedabad.
Six months + Extension = 12 months
Publish Draft Development
Plan
Inspection by the public- inviting
suggestion or objections
Time Span - two months
Modification of the Draft
Development Plan
Draft Development Plan
Development Plan if required
Once in ten years
Within three years
Constitution of Ahmedabad
Urban Development Authority
Declaration of the Urban
Development Area
State Government Approval
Final Development plan
Modifying the Plan and the
regulations in such manner as it
may directed
Refuse to accord sanction and ask
for preparation of a fresh
Development Plan
Revision of the Development
Plan


64
5.3.1. Environmental issues in Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad is one of the textile and industrial city and now developing as pharmaceutical city of
India. Availability of resources for Industrial set-up, very well connectivity to other important cities
and policies favoring development are resulting into fast urbanization, increase in population and
economic development. Along with the advantages, environment degradation, vulnerability to
disasters and poor quality of life are the negative dimensions of an industrial city. Urban areas are
becoming most uncomfortable areas to live due to lack of breathing spaces, open areas and visual
comfort.
The classified images of Ahmedabad city explain spatially the growth of city within a decade (refer
Image 5.1.). The urban sprawl has been taken place in all directions but more significant in south-
east and western region of Ahmedabad. The vegetation in south-east is reduced drastically to
provide the land for development. In western Ahmedabad, expansion as well as densification took
place in last 10 years. The same case is with peripheral development in eastern Ahmedabad
(around walled city). According to the Study conducted by Raykar Pratima (2005), there is increase
in total built up of 157.73 sq km and vegetation cover is decreased by 156.51 sq km.

Source-Raykar, P. (2005)

Classification for 1991 Classification for 2000
Table 5.1. Landcover Comparison
Image 5.1. Satellite Image Classifications
Source-Raykar, P. (2005)
Landcover Area in 1991
(Sq Km)
Area in 2000
(Sq Km)
Difference
(Sq Km)
Very Dense buit-up area 40.1 58.45 18.35
Medium Dense built-up area 26.14 85.53 59.39
Built-up + Sparse Vegetation 87.89 167.87 79.98
Barren 73.79 45.53 -28.26
Sparse Vegetation 291.39 224.79 -66.6
Dense Vegetation 176.52 114.88 -61.65
Water bodies 6.79 3.75 -3.05
Total Sand 2.03 3.87 1.85
Total 704.65 704.65


65
Like any other city Ahmedabad is also facing problem of deteriorating environment. A few of the
environmental issues are mentioned below-
Exploitation of ground water source
Steady decline in water quality
Contamination of water
Untreated waste water disposed in River Sabarmati
Water logging and flooding problems
No primary collection of waste
Disposal of bio-medical wastes with other wastes
No waste segregation done
Rising air pollution levels in the city
Slums
Lack of Recreational Facilities and the decrease of green/ vegetation cover
Much higher noise levels than the permissible limits
Traffic congestion
Note- These issues will be dealt in detail in the subsequent section.
5.3.2. History of Development Plan in Ahmedabad
The Bombay Town Planning Act 1915, was the first act enacted in the erstwhile Bombay state, of
which Gujarat formed a part. It provided for making of town planning scheme for certain selected
areas in the urban centres. Accordingly numbers of town planning schemes were prepared long
back for the different areas of Ahmedabad local authority. The Act however did not provide for
preparation of overall Master Plan/Development Plan for the whole local authority area for
promoting planned and orderly development of the area coming under the jurisdiction of local
authority. For the first time provision was made in the Bombay Town Planning Act, 1954, enabling
the local authority to prepare a Development Plan for a whole of its area and with the enactment of
the Act of 1954, the 1915 Act was repealed.
Under the then Bombay Town Planning Act 1954, the planning function was confided to the area
within the jurisdiction of local bodies. The peripheral areas of the city, outside the jurisdiction of the
municipal limits which are under pressure and have a very good potential of the developments were
not under the control, as per this Act and there was no statutory provision for the planning of the
same. The growth in this area has a tendency, proceeding in an unplanned manner, in absence of
any Development Plan or any development control under a definite statute. This unregulated
development on the peripheral areas snowball into a liability when they become the apart of the
major town or city in so far as provision of the infrastructure facilities and specific amenities are
concerned. Therefore, the Gujarat Town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976, was enacted
which came into force on 01/02/1978. The act provided for declaration of development area which
extends much beyond the boundary of local authority and preparation of Development Plan and
Town Planning Schemes for the development area declared. According to the act, the Government
has constituted the authority for the Ahmedabad urban development area to be called the
Ahmadabad Urban Development Authority and the first Draft Development Plan was prepared by
the Authority in 1981.

Development Plans till Date
Not many seem to know that the AUDA Plan of 1981 is not the first one prepared for development
of the Ahmedabad urban area. In fact it is fifth interestingly, though all the four Plans are intended
to serve almost the same purpose, they differ substantially in orientation, approach, emphasis and


66
interpretation of the direction of urbanization in the region. They show that planning, like most other
things in our land, is not so much hard facts and objectivity, it is often personalities.
The first proposal for Ahmedabad metropolitan area was prepared by a US-trained, flamboyant
Ram Setya, who worked as senior town planner in the state Town Planning and Valuation
Department during 1967-69. His concept was of ribbon development. He emphasized development
of the Ahmedabad- Boroda-Surat-vapi corridor as the potential industrial region of Gujarat. He even
suggested location of an international airport on the north-east side of Mehmadabad town to serve
the area. The physical form of this plan, intended to cover a projected population of 45 lakhs in the
year 2000, was of concentric growth around the existing of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. This
Plan was later reviewed and amended by a three-man committee appointed by the state
government. But the amended Plan was considered of little value as it was not based on any
studies.

After Mr. Setyas departure from the state Town Planning Department, Mr. Deshpande took over as
deputy town planner department. He had a doctorate in transportation planning. Before he took
over, during 1968-72 the state government had sought the assistance of the metropolitan
transportation team headed by Mr. K.L. Rao of the town and country planning organization, New
Delhi, to prepare a Transport Plan for the city and its influence zone. The team after three years of
effort prepared a short-term operational Plan for improving the traffic junctions in the old fort wall-
area and published a preliminary report on the long-term Plan of transportation network in the
Ahmedabad metropolitan region. Using this as basis, Mr. Deshpande prepared a tentative
Structural Plan of the Ahmedabad metropolitan area which emphasized transportation and traffic
linkages with the existing railway and road facilities. It proposed development of a traffic corridor
between Kalol and Mehmadabad and suggested an alternative land use plan to fit with the general
concept of movement efficiency. The plan was unceremoniously shelved after Mr. Deshpandes
departure from the Town Planning Department.

The third preceded the now infamous Urban Land (Ceiling & Regulation) Act of 1976. On the eve of
the enactment of the Act a schematic land use Plan of the Ahmedabad metropolitan area known as
the Urban Land Ceiling Master Plan (ULC Master Plan) was prepared by the chief town planner
and handed over to the revenue department of the state government, exclusively to administer the
ULC Act. The definition of vacant land has a reference to building regulations and unless the mater
plan is prepared the various use-zones, cannot be identified. And without such zoning,
development controls cannot be exercised. Thus was born the ULC Master Plan. It is an open
secret that the said plan is an overnight exercise and consequently lacks a comprehensive frame of
long term development needs.

The AUDA Plan 1981 is fifth in succession. It has taken a line of least resistance by adopting the
revised draft Development Plan of the AMC (the fourth plan) along with modifications suggested by
the state government and also the zoning proposals of the ULC Master Plan prepared under the
Urban Land Ceiling Act, 1976. Let alone its proposals, the AMCs revised Draft Development Plan
for Ahmedabad city covers only a ten-year period and, that too, between 1975-85, but AUDAs plan
period, incidentally, is 1980-2000 and ULC Master Plan is extremely tentative. This question the
whole planning process, what respect will one have either for its perspective or provision of such
Development Plan and what will be the faith of AMC after 1985 and further AUDAs confession on
Page 23 of the 1981 Draft Development Plan document that the fact the very basis on which the
Ahmedabad urban development area was delineated is not available could scarily add to its
credibility. At present sixth successor, the revised Development Plan 1997 is already sanctioned by
the state government. The table below gives the list of Development Plan prepared and sanctioned
under the said Acts for AMC and AUDA area.


67

1981 Draft Development Plan Issues
The 1981 draft master plan was the first master plan prepared under the Gujarat Town Planning
and Urban Development Act, 1976 and sanctioned in 1987. Right from the beginning of The
Assumptions of 1981 Draft Development Plan were questioned. Doubts were expressed about the
validity and authenticity of the information based on which proposals were formulated. The whole
affair looks even more tricky when one considers the constraints and limitation, and the information
systems on which the entire edifice rests and which are quite thin, unscientific, and highly
undependable. In fact the very basis on which the Ahmedabad urban development area was
delineated is not available or not knows to the authority.

Inspection by Public and Transparency
The main concern of the people was the time span for inspection of the document by public.
According to Mr. Kirtee Shah (1982), all sections of the people who have seen the plan are
unanimous in their opinion that a two-month period to comment on such a massive, comprehensive
and long-term plan is woefully inadequate, particularly when the facilities for study and dialogue
were poor and the documents not easily available during the period. After all if AUDA took three
long years to prepare the Plan after many studies and consultations, what was wrong if the 28
lakhs people, who were more or less expected to stand in a queue at the AUDA office to read their
20-year future, needed a little more time to understand it.
when one knows the fate of three previous Master Plans and the Development Plan of the
Ahmedabad city prepared by the Ahmedabad municipal corporation which, thought meant for the
period 1975-85, which was approved in 1983 two year before the end of its term. The question is, if
the development authority could take so long in preparing the plan and if the government could take
whatever time it wills in approving it, why should the people for whom the entire planning process is
meant be given just two months?
One can even question the transparency of the authority in preparing the plan, Mr. H.K. Mewada,
the chief Town planner and convener of the sub-committee during that period, normally a
compulsory insider in such exercises, commenting on the lack of internal dialogue and coordination
during the planning phase, is said to have stated, I havent seen AUDAs Draft Development Plan
though I am in the government.

Fate of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation
Not many seem to realize that the 336-page thick document, which contains development
proposals for 1296 Sq. Kms. Of Ahmedabad urban development area for the next 20 years, and
which will cost Rs. 55,000 lakh to implement barely devotes a few lines to Ahmedabad city itself, for
whose balanced and planned growth, the AUDA was constituted in the first place and according to
Mr. kirtee shah, the Rs. 55,000 lakh budget includes nothing for the Ahmedabad Municipal Area,
where at present 22.50 lakh people live and its own estimates 43 lakh people will be living by the
year 2001. On the fate of this great mass of people, AUDAs document says only this much: For
the Ahmedabad Municipal Area, the revised Draft Development Plan, prepared by the municipal
corporation under the then Bombay Town Planning Act, 1954, along with the necessary
modifications, suggested by the state government is adopted in AUDAs Plan.
Area Prepared on Scantioned Revised on Scantioned
AMC 21-Aug-65 01-Oct-65 26-Dec-74 16-Sep-83
AUDA 25-Jun-81 02-Nov-87 28-Sep-97 18-May-02
Devlopment Plans till Date
Table 5.2. Development plan in Ahmedabad till Date


68
This must be one of the most classic act of evasion, and if it is not so, then the very basis of
AUDAs formation and continued existence must be in question. Does AUDA want us to believe
that the Ahmedabad Development Plan prepared by AMC sometime in 1974 is Valid in the context
in which AUDA is planning urban development? Isnt it a fact that the AMCs Plan lacks the broader
perspective as its horizons are limited to the municipal boundaries only? Will there be any
difference in a plan which confines its limits to the geographical area of 96 sq. kms. and the one
that covers and area of 1294 sq. kms. More importantly, Ahmedabad Municipal Corporations
Development Plan covers the period 1975-85. AUDAs draft Plan is for the years 1980-2001. so the
AUDAs Development Plan from the years 1985 onwards is without any focus for AMC area, or any
base, because what it has incorporated is not valid after that year.

Environment
During the time when AUDA was preparing the Draft Development Plan 1981, the major concern in
term of environment was water, the reason was Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act
1974, was the only major act enacted till than. The plan mentions that on an average the
environment of the authority area is healthy except in the city area. In city area the environmental
conditions has deteriorated and the main cause for these is stated as the rapid growth of industries
and automobiles. The major concern is industrial effluent which is poured into river Sabarmati,
which is the main source of drinking water and also for irrigation. There is also problem of disposal
of waste water and increase of carbon dioxide in air. Noise pollution is felt in some pocket in the old
city which effects the human living environment; this is the level of mention or consideration in the
draft Development Plan of 1981. According to the plan there is an urgent need for development of
infrastructure such as drainage, sewerage and water supply. Regarding the slums, the plan
proposes to a project for providing dwelling unit for slums on government land which is only 25% of
the total slum. While rest will be dealt separately, but there is no elaboration of what it means by
separately.
If one goes through the Draft Revised Development Plan of AMC 1975-85, it might not have a
separate section for environment, but it tries so incorporate or look into minor detail of climate and
natural features of Ahmedabad like wind direction, lakes and pond, it even highlight the fact that
Ahmedabad is an earthquake prone area and shocks are recorded, but no damages were
recorded. It tries also to look at the floods in Ahmedabad and mention about the floods of 1973
which caused the most damage.

Implementation
One of the most important functions which AUDA is required to perform, is implementing the
Development Plan for the Ahmedabad urban development area in a phased programme, according
to priorities to be fixed in terms of location, needs and potential and availability to finance.
In order to organize the development programme, it is envisaged that the urban development
authority will play the role of a coordinating and monitoring agency and will decide the priorities of
the development works. The major public bodies entrusted with the implementation of the
development schemes are Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, State and Central Government
Departments, Districts and Taluka Panchayats, Gujarat Housing Boards, Slum Clearance Boards,
GSTC and Ahmadabad Urban Development Authority. For the effective implementation of the
Development Plan, it is suggested that the entire finance for the various developmental activities to
be carried out by agencies of the state government may be routed through the authority.
In reality, this would mean that what the slum clearance board should activities will be determined
by AUDA. The funds to be spent on laying the water supply lines in Mehmadabad will be channeled
through AUDA and AUDA will advise the Gujarat State Transport Corporation on rationalization of
its uneconomic routes. After knowing the culture and history of institutional autonomy and after lack


69
of transparency in AUDA itself, would this be possible and does AUDA have required the
manpower, skills and experience? Are the question posed by a lot of concerned individuals.

Shortfalls in Sanctioned Development Plan 1981
Preparation
Two-month period to comment on such a massive, comprehensive and long-term plan is
woefully inadequate, particularly when the facilities for study and dialogue were poor and
the documents not easily available during the period
Lack of transparency of the authority in preparing the Plan
The Plan barely devotes a few lines to Ahmedabad city (AMC limit) itself, for whose
balanced and planned growth, the AUDA was constituted in the first place
The validity of incorporation Ahmedabad Development Plan prepared by AMC sometime in
1974 for a period of ten years in the Development Plan prepared by AUDA for a period of
20 years
Implementation
Under-development of designated urbanizable area and reserved land to the extent of 25%
Mismatch between actual development and proposed zone
No recreational facilities have been developed in areas earmarked for the purpose
Areas which were proposed for residential development have remained undeveloped
Sites reserved for the land development schemes by various government, semi-
government and statutory bodies have not been acquired by the respective agencies
No land has been acquired for development of proposed new roads, in the sanctioned
Development Plan
Lack of development of physical infrastructure regarding drainage, drainage and solid
waste
Monitoring and Review
Failure of the growth centers Sanand, Kalol, Mehmdabad and Dehgam.
Negligible growth was experienced in the proposed industrial zones in the growth centers.
Mushrooming of unauthorized small-scale industrial units
No satisfactory progress made in development of river front for recreational purpose
AUDA has not been able to play the role of the coordinator in development works
undertaken by various agencies in AUDA area; all departments undertake their
development works without consultation with AUDA.

After all this shortfalls, the Plan mentions it has reasonably succeeded in direction urban growth
along anticipated lines, and the development has taken place in orderly manner by enforcement of
GDCR, the basic frame of plan of 1981 still holds good. How can basic framework be good if its has
major shortfalls in preparation, implementation and monitoring of the plan as mentioned above.
5.3.3. Revised Draft Development Plan 1997
The Development Plan for Ahmedabad urban development area approved in 1987 was revised by
AUDA in 1997. The Ahmedabad urban development area covers an area of 1294.65 Sq. Km. Apart
from Ahmedabad city it includes the growth centre like Kalol, sanand, Dehgam and Mehemdabad.
In the Development Plan 1987 it was anticipated that incentives like tax relief and other benefits
would be made available by the state government in these growth centers through modifications in
the government industrial policy. But as this did not materialize, these four towns only experience
marginal annual growth rates. The present of Ahmedabad has spread well beyond the present


70
municipal limits and even beyond the AUDA limits on the western side e.g. Beyond the villages of
Ambli and Bopal.
5.3.3.1. The Draft Development Plan 1997 Preparation Process
Review of Previous Development Plan
A review of the sanctioned Development Plan, 1987 was carried out. The AUDA area was
visualized as 3-tier system of development. The major achievements and shortcomings were
identified. The issues that emerged from the review were (1) the urbanizable area which was
proposed in 1987 remains still undeveloped to the extent of 25% (2) in certain cases, there has
been a mismatch between actual development and proposed zoning. (3) The development of
growth centers was not as per expectations. (4) There has been a mushrooming of
unauthorized small-scale industrial units.
Consultation Process with Public and Agencies
Interaction were organized with various agencies ranging from farmers groups to trade and
professional associations, governmental and semi-governmental agencies to take suggestion
before the preparation of the revised draft Development Plan. Suggestions were invited from
various sections of the public like the MPs, MLAs, representative of district panchayats, local
authorities of the growth centers, AMC and various professional institutions The Gujarat
Chamber of Commerce and Industries, prominent citizens, semi-government and autonomous
bodies to review the sanctioned Development Plan and provide inputs for the revised
Development Plan.
Land Suitability Analysis using Remote Sensing by ISRO
A land suitability analysis with the help of remote sensing and GIS was carried out jointly by
Space Application Center (ISRO) and AUDA to assess urban sprawl since 1972 and land
suitability for development. It studied, landuse, hydro-geo-morphology, flood hazard, erosion,
transportation links, ground water prospects, soil, topography etc. review of other studies,
proposals and project experiences were also carried out before arriving at the proposals based
on the inferences derived from them.
Publish Draft Development Plan and Display for Public Scrutiny
The revised Draft Development Plan was published on 27-11-1997 in the official state gazette.
The Development Plan was displayed for public scrutiny for a period of two months from the
date of publication at the AUDA office to invite objections and suggestions.
Presentations were also made at various public forum like the Gujarat Institute of Civil
Engineers and Architects, Gujarat Institute of Housing and Estate Developers, GCCI, School of
Planning (CEPT), etc.
Receiving objections and suggestions
Approximately 35,000 objections and suggestions were received in response to the published
Plan. Most of these were from individual land owners/ Khedut Mandals who were directly
affected by the proposals of the revised draft Development Plan. They specifically pertained to
the proposed ring road alignment, the reservation policy and the proposed special agricultural
Zone. Responses were also received from various institutions in the city. These were reviewed
and based on them; suitable modifications were made in the proposals wherever deemed
necessary.
Modification of the Draft Development Plan
These changes have been indicated in the supplementary document which has been prepared
with inputs from Environmental Planning Collaborative, Ahmedabad. The supplementary
document has been prepared subsequently to modification of the draft Development Plan.


71
Revision of the Development
Plan in 2007
State Government Approval
Final Development plan
Modifying the Plan and the
regulations in such manner as it
may directed
Refuse to accord sanction and ask
for preparation of a fresh
Development Plan
Ahmedabad Urban
Development Authority
Review of Previous
Development Plan
Consultation Process with
Public and Agencies
Publish Draft Development
Plan
Development Plan by EPA and
AUDA
Draft Development Plan
Development Plan if required
Initial Analysis using Remote
Sensing by ISRO

5.3.3.2. The ISRO -GIS and Remote Sensing Approach 1997- Volume 1
For any Development Plan proposal, one has to carry out extensive survey and studies to
understand the area. Basic caveat for this is the availability of systematic, detailed, reliable, timely
and accurate information on various facets of urban environment. Without understanding an area
and its problems a proposal may not caters to the required needs of the city, but by the time the
plan is made using conventional surveys, the data becomes old and the plan may not be suitable
for implementation. So in case of Ahmedabad, this job was allotted to Space Application Centre
(ISRO) to do various studies using GIS and Remote Sensing. It is because of this, ISRO with help
of satellite images and with available data from previous report tried to cover certain area-
Figure 5.2. The Draft Development Plan 1997 preparation process


72

Index

Environmental component
mentioned in the
methodology, but lacking in
the Plan.

ECOLOGICAL
CONSERVATION
SUITABLE FOR
INFRASTRUCTURE
SUITABLE FOR OPEN
SPACE
SUITABLE FOR
COMMERCE
SUITABLE FOR
INDUSTRY
COMPREHENSIVE
ANALYSIS OF DATA- By
ISRO
SOIL TEXTURE
EROSION HAZARD
SURFACE WATER
LAND USE
ELEVATION POINTS/
COUNTOURS
RLY STATION
ROAD
BUILT-UP
FLOOD HAZARD
GROUND WATER
OPTIMAL LAND
SUITABILITY- By ISRO
ANTICIPATED
ENVIRONMENTAL
DEVELOPMENTAL IMPACT
ON SITE
SUITABLE FOR
STRUCTURE
SUITABLE FOR
AGRICULTURE
SUITABLE FOR
RESIDENTIAL
STRATERGY OF LAND USE
DESIGN- By AUDA
INTEGRATION OF
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC
DATA
DENSITY AND
THRESHOLD
LAND USE
OPTIMISATION
FUTURE GROWTH AND
DEMAND
DEVELOPMENT OF
ALTERNATIVE CONCEPTUAL
LAND USE PLAN
SELECTION OF THE
OPTIMAL CONCEPTUAL
LAND USE PLAN
DRAFT OF LAND USE PLAN
PUBLIC HEARING
PLAN APPROVAL AND
PUBLICATION
PLAN
IMPLEMENTATION
PLAN MODIFICATION
PHASED DEVELOPMENT
LAND USE PLAN
LAND USE CONTROL
AND REGULATION PLAN
ENVIRONMENTAL
GUIDELINES
Figure 5.3. Detail Methodology for Preparation of the Development Plan
Source- ISRO, 1997


73

Land use mapping, on a grid of 80 Sq km along with cover interpretation.
Study on ground water prospects
Geological study
Slope analysis
Soil analysis
Flood hazard
Surface water bodies
Settlements and transportation network.

Some issues related to The ISRO -GIS and Remote Sensing Approach 1997
The ISRO report was a good initial piece of study. But it mainly failed in the land suitability part.
Identification of suitable land for urban development is one of the critical issues of planning. The
land suitability designates land according to its physical capability regardless of any planners
conceptual interest. ISRO carried out study regarding urban land use suitability, the suitability of the
land for urban development was based on a set of physical parameters but also very much on the
economic criteria, basically based on development constraints for land use for urban use. The
Methodology prepared by ISRO (refer figure 5.3) mentions some environmental component, but in
reality the land suitable does not touch on areas that are environmentally sensitive and need to be
preserved for long term environmental and social benefits. (Ex. Forest, agriculture land etc.)
Note- Ten important physical parameters are considered for the suitability analysis are 1) soil depth 2)
soil texture 3) slope 4) land use/cover 5) Ground water prospects 6) flood hazard 7) erosion hazard
8) surface water bodies 9) distance from road and 10) distance form rail head.
5.3.3.3. The Revised Draft Development Plan 1997 and Environment
The first aim mentioned in the Development plan is To create good environment and to minimize
the environment pollution with green spaces, open spaces and places of public activities with
recreational areas. What does environment mean in this context, what is creating good
environment means? Does it consider only physical environment, than what about the social
environment? And to minimize the environmental pollution with green spaces, can be interpreted as
remedial measures, than preventive measures to curb the environment pollution in Ahmedabad. So
to what extent is Environment considered in the Development Plan, is it only a part of only aim or is
it achieved in the Development Plan? The subsequent section will try to answer these questions.

Population dynamics
The Draft Development Plan mentions that the projected population of 43,46,190 for the year 1991
has not been achieved. Is this a good or a bad sign is what the Development Plan fails to perceive.
It is a healthy sign in case of environment is considered, less population would mean less stress on
resources. But it tries to justify that the population was not achieved because the proposed
development was not developed. Can present natural resources like land and water in Ahmedabad
cater to the projected population and can the required infrastructure be provided in time to prevent
deterioration of environment? All this aspects need a closer look.
18
As discussed earlier in the Delhi
master plan, the whole relevance of the population projection needs to be questioned, since all the
estimation of infrastructure, transportation etc is solely based on it. Can concept like carrying
capacity or holding capacity based on land and resource like water help to understand what

18
According to ISRO (1997), the total groundwater exploitation in AUDA and AMC is 200 MCM/Yr. against the safe
yield of 80 MCM/Yr.


74
Table 5.3. Existing and Proposed Land use of AUC Area (Excluding AMC)
population figures can be dealt by a city like Ahmedabad and what can be sustained over a period
of time. Sustainability is the key issue, the Development Plan projects population of each area and
than identifies suitable land for accommodating this population, the land suitability does not
consider infrastructure as a criteria. Development of Infrastructure is a major problem/ constrain for
any development, the review of last Development Plan mentioned it as a major cause for lack of
development of the identified urbanizable area.

Land use
The economic criteria has tended to dominate the land-use decision-making process in the
Development Plans, which may in long term have resulted in environmental degradation
accompanied by hazards to human life and property, leading loss of green cover and loss of
precious agriculture land. Therefore land use decisions should have been based on environmental
land suitability study, in order to prevent damage to environment and protect the environmentally
sensitive zones (e.g. agriculture land, forests, water bodies and rivers)
The Ahmedabad Development Plan claims that the land use suitability study of ISRO was
considered while proposing the future land use for Ahmedabad, the methodology for proposing land
use is not mentioned. If one takes up an exercise to study the transition of the proposed land use
and understand the changes in land use of Ahmedabad form the Development Plan document, it a
difficult proposition. The land use classification of the existing and the proposed land use are never
classified on the similar basis. The Development Plan (DP) only gives the composition of the
existing area in case of AUDA that too on very broad bases, but no proposed composition is given.
AUC area has been increased from 9126 to 28787 hectares, but the original composition of the
increased area is not given. It consider the composition of the 9126 hectors of AUC area and than
proposes landuse for the 28787 hector of AUC area (refer table 5.3). AMC case is also similar
where the classification of existing and the proposed dont match. The existing land use shows
classification of open / vacant land and there is no segregation of this open area into agriculture,
recreational, gardens and the proposed land use gives a clubed total of all land use, which is 8.61%
of the total land use, so effectively it is very difficult to know how much open space is proposed
(refer table 5.4). The main reason for giving such kinds of classification is that, the A.M.C. area
Sr.
No.
Land Use Area in
Hect.
% of
Developed
Area
Sr. No. Land Use Area in
Hect.
% of
Developed
Area
1 Residential, Roads,
Public and Semi-Public
Type 1 (old residential
area)
9938 34.523
Type 2 (new residential
area)
4624.92 16.066
2 Public Activity Area 552 1.918
3 Public and Semi- Public 243 0.844
3 Commercial 276 3.02 4 Commercial 1071.92 3.724
4 Industrial 647 7.09 5 Industrial 987.58 3.431
5 Garden open space
and P.G.
41 0.46 6 Recreational 6300 21.885
6 Railway/ Roads/
Airport
406 4.45 7 Treatment Plants
(AUDA, AMC)
745.16 2.589
8 High flood hazards 524 1.82
9 Agriculture 3800.42 13.202
Total 9126 100 Total area 28787 100
39.72
Source- Revised Draft Development Plan of AUDA- 2011 AD Part 1, Vol. 2
3559 Residential include
Gamtal
7 Water way and tank 3625
Existing Landuse of AUC Area (Excluding AMC
Area) (1997)
Proposed Landuse of AUC (Excluding AMC Limit) (2011
A.D.)
38.99
2 Public & Semi- Public 572 6.27
1


75

does not have any documentation of the existing land use, the land use proposed in the previous
Development Plan, 1981 is considered to be the existing land use and there is no actual
documentation done. Hence it is a very difficult or next to impossible from the DP to understand the
transition of land use and do a comparative analysis.
Table 5.4. Existing and Proposed Land use of AMC area
The old city of Ahmedabad is one of the most congested and the most dense area with narrow road
approaches without any parking facilities, rather than reducing the congestion and density problem
the Development Plan suggests to develop the closed mills in the eastern part of the city to be used
as commercial as well as for low income housing group which may again led to densification of the
area. Some of these areas can de develop as open area, as there is a greater need of open spaces
in the eastern part of the city.
Figure 5.6. Ahmedabad old Textile mill Land
Sr.
No.
Land Use Area in
Hect.
% of Total
Area
Sr.
No.
Land Use Area in
Hect.
% of Total
Area
1 Residential 6664.44 34.92 1 Residential 8340.22 43.7
2 Village Site / Gamtal 895.59 4.69 2 Walled City and Village
Sites (Gamtal)
645.56 3.38
3 Commercial 472.64 2.47 3 Commercial 263.06 1.38
4 General Industrial 2006.51 10.51
5 Special Industrial 786.72 4.12
5 Open / vacant Land 4473.36 23.44 6 Agriculture/ Recreational/
Open Space/ Gardens
1643 8.61
6 Education 344.19 1.8 7 Education 387.3 2.03
7 Roads 1426.65 7.47
8 Railway land 372 1.96
9 Water bodies 850.55 4.46 9 Water bodies (Including
rivers)
937.97 4.92
10 Hospitals 98.36 0.52
11 Burial Ground / Grave
Yard
86.54 0.45
12 AMC Plots 467.18 2.45
Total 19084 100 Total 19084 100
10.25
Source- Revised Draft Development Plan of AUDA- 2011 AD Part 1, Vol. 2
10 Area Under Reservations
now designated as special
development area
1955.37
2932.78 15.37
Roads and Railways 2117.67 11.1 8
Existing Landuse of AMC Area (1997) Proposed Landuse of AMC Area (2011 A.D.)
4 Industrial
Source- CDP, Ahmedabad, 2006


76
Figure 5.4. Depletion of Water Table
The Development Plan permits commercial use on the ground and first floor of any property
abutting a road of width 18m or more, in all urbanizable zones. This has been done on the basis of
observed recent trends and the realization that regulations completely contrary to the market
realities are bound to fail. In other terms there has been violation of the previous GDCR and it is an
attempt to regularize the said development. This kind of development usually causing congestion
on roads due to the parking necessity, so along with changes in GDCR there are other factor which
are related need to be incorporated.
The Development Plan proposes a compact city form in order to ensure that precious urban land is
used efficiently. But the term compact needs more elaboration, since in the analysis volume 1 of
the Development Plan mentions that, high rise structures are zooming up on the western side of the
city which may worsen the quality of life. Does compact mean high rise structure, or low rise dense
development need clarification in the Plan.

Industries
Rapid industrial development, creation of slums and discharge of untreated industrial wastes in
river, are some of the apparent reasons of air and water pollution in Ahmedabad. Environmental
conditions has steadily deteriorated and thus created problems of health for the society. The other
feature which intensifies the problems of public health is overcrowding in dwelling units and
resulted substandard living conditions.
Most of the industries in the study area are located with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation
(AMC) limits. There are three major industrial estates within AMC which have various types of
industries ranging from chemical, dyes and dyestuffs, engineering, rolling mills, pharmaceuticals,
plastics etc. Due to the revised national industrial policy, no new large industrial projects will come
up in AUDA area but are being set up on outside the urban development area in the region/district.
Industries are encouraged to be located away from existing developed areas of Ahmedabad and
because of this that most of the new industries are coming up outside the AUDA limits on the
western part. But this might still have an impact on the air quality of the region.

Water
Groundwater
The groundwater is being extensively utilized to meet the heavy industrial, civil and domestic water
demand. This has led to a sharp decline in water levels over the years. The total groundwater
exploitation in AUDA and AMC is 200 MCM/YR against the safe yield of 80 MCM/YR (ISRO, 1997).
The unconfined aquifer has
nearly been rendered
waterless and the current
water demand is mainly met
by the confined aquifer system
being tapped by numerous
tubewells. The water levels
have been declining fast over
the years. This is due to
uncontrolled pumping, over-
exploitation and above all, lack
of proper legislation on
groundwater exploitation. As a
result, theres an ever
increasing threat to the quality
and the quality of the
groundwater available.
Source- CDP, Ahmedabad, 2006


77
Presently there is inadequate coverage in term of water supply, only 85% of the AMC population
receives piped water supply. Rest of the population, specially the AUDA depends on ground water,
which is extracted through bore wells. In absence of perennial source in the city dependence on
ground water is high. This is seriously affecting the ground water level. This is depleting at the rate
of 2-3 M annually.
During the study by ISRO, it was felt that Detailed and systematic hydro geological study is
required to access the utilization and developmental potential of the groundwater system
quantitatively in the AUDA area. A systematic survey involving collection of groundwater sample for
quality analysis is required to access the potential of the water precisely. ISRO also suggested
taking up a systematic and detailed study to draw a meaningful and effective water resource
Development Plan of AUDA area. Such a Plan would indicate combination of sites suitable for
water harvesting/artificial recharge along with appropriate zones/sites for ground water abstraction
for sustaining adequate supply against the necessary water demand in future
The Development Plan does not consider the problem of contamination of water supply due to old
service connections. Neither there is a Plan for sustainable withdrawal of water and recharging the
ground water source. The increasing land sealing due to development of Ahmedabad has also
contributed to loss of ground water recharge area. The DCR only regulate the control of water
pollution but there is no control on extraction, but it provides for provision of percolating well for
building unit exceeding 1500 sq. mtrs for promoting ground water recharge
River Sabarmati
The Sabarmati River is being highly polluted due to the development around with untreated sewage
left into the river along with industrial effluent released in the river which is the main source of
drinking water. And since the Development Plan study mention that the bed of the river is highly
porous in nature, it can lead to contamination of ground water. There are attempts to clean the
Sabarmati River through Sabarmati river action Plan under National River Conservation Plan.
Lakes and Ponds
In year 2000 there were three special civil application filed in Gujarat High Court at Ahmedabad, all
the petitions centered around the question of protecting, preserving and improving the water-bodies
in Ahmedabad and safeguarding them against encroachment. The first application No. 10621 was
for removing all encroachments on the land of Lake Chandola and for executing the work for
distillation, reviving feeder streams and taking effective steps for reviving and recharging it. The
second application No. 11635 was for removing unauthorized encroachment from Lakhudi talavadi
in Navrangpura and the third application No. 11049 stated that instead of developing the ponds at
Memnagar and Vastrapur, illegal constructions were allowed to come up and no action was being
taken by the authorities to remove them.
Constitutional and statutory provisions clearly bring to fore the paramount duty of the State
Government, Municipal and Panchayat authorities, the Area Development Authorities and other
legal authorities, to protect and improve water-bodies as a part of environment. There are ample
legislation to arm these authorities with the power to preserve these natural resources and prevent
their abuse. But Most of the water-bodies in Ahmedabad have virtually been destroyed or
encroached on account of negligence of the authorities. It is also noted that, natural drainage
channels drainage connecting different water ponds have either encroached or blocked and due to
which the water that used to be stored in the ponds is lost in form of run-off. The court directed the
authorities that care should be taken that water bodies are not converted to any other use in the
Town Planning Schemes / Development Plans that may be made hereafter. The present revised
Development Plan 1997 supplementary report mentions about development of talavs/lakes and the
GDCR provides for protection and development of talav/lakes through restricting development
within 9 meter of the water body. The distance of 9 meter has no justification and was even under
debate in the special application in the high court.



78
Hazards and Disaster
Flood hazard- the initial development study identifies only river Sabarmati as a potential
flood hazard prone zone. And the Development Plan mentions some areas in the western
Ahmedabad like Naroda area, which have been built in low lying areas without any proper
planning. But in reality Ahmedabad city has major water logging and flooding problems.
City experience it worst floods in 2000 when large area of western (which is suppose to be
a planned area) and eastern Ahmedabad were affected. This floods were caused because
of poor storm water drains coverage and the planning within considering the natural
topography and slope of the land.
Riots- there are no demarking of areas prone or vulnerable to riots in the Development
Plan. This is one of the most important issues in Ahmedabad and thought-out most of the
cities of Gujarat. The riots of 2002 caused heavy loss of life and property. Therefore there
is a need to study the riot prone area and demarcate them as sensitive zones.
Earthquake- the planning for Ahmedabad originally didnt consider the fact that
Ahmedabad falls in the earthquake prone area (zone-3). Because of this reason there was
mass destruction of property and heavy losses of lives in the earthquake of that shook
Gujarat in 2002 and hence latter on, the GDCR for Ahmedabad was revised and provision
were made for structural safety of the building.
There is no consideration for a Disaster Management Plan for AUDA as a whole. The
planning process is a piece meal process. Major consideration like the project for gas
supply in the city is not even considered in the Development Plan.

Pollution
Air and water- The GDCR mentions that competent authority may stipulate conditions for
controlling air and water pollution, since the provision in the GDCR is very general, there is
Air and water pollution caused by industries. There are projects like the Sabarmati
conservation plan which are addressing the issues of river pollution. Apart from this the
current industrial location policy, through its incentive mechanisms, favors the location of
large scale and obnoxious industrial outside the urban area rather than inside it. But this
reduces only the pollution level in the urban area and causing problem in the outside area.
Noise- is not given importance in the Development Plan. Noise pollution is major problem
in urban area which causes a lot of mental problems. The Development Plan mention
about the noise pollution in some areas, but they are not mapped.

Physical and Social Infrastructure
The Development Plan feels that, it will be difficult to adopt uniform standards and find out the exact
requirements of these physical and social infrastructure facilities for AUDA area. It feels that it
would also be difficult to show the locations of the various services and amenities, location of
college, secondary schools, hospitals and dispensaries, town hall, auditorium, city club, community
hall etc., at macro level planning of the Development Plan. So only standards are mentioned in the
Development Plan, which are as per Delhi development Authority. The Development Plan mentions
that, the provision of all these services and amenities will still however be worked out in the Town
Planning (T.P.) Scheme proposals or at micro level planning. A T.P scheme involves planning of
about 100 hectare of land and one could understand if community level infrastructure was provide
through a T.P scheme, but locating city level infrastructure through T.P scheme can be debated.

Solid Waste
Solid waste problem is of least consideration for the Development Plan (DP), the Draft DP part 1,
volume-2, surveys, studies and analysis, dedicates about five lines to solid waste and there is no


79
proposal for solid waste in the Draft DP. Hence it gives a feel that solid waste is no issue for
Ahmedabad. The DP does not even mention the amount of waste generated and the way the solid
waste is handled and disposed.
According to CDP Ahmedabad 2006, there is no primary collection of solid waste in the AUDA
area. There are major problem of disposal of bio-medical waste. 6% of the total 604 private hospital
are tied with AMC. No waste segregation done, unscientific techniques are used in waste disposal.
The laws governing the urban local bodies make it obligatory to ensure regular cleaning of public
streets and disposal of wastes collected there from. The private roads, or the slum pockets, which
are generally situated on the private plots, therefore do not get the SWM services. In absence of
adequate legal provision, even the citizens in general do not organize themselves for the proper
storage of wastes at source, for its community collection and for its disposal in to the municipal
system. There is a gap in legislation as it neither makes it mandatory for the people to have a
domestic bin and community bin and to dispose of their wastes into municipal systems nor makes it
compulsory for the urban local bodies to make door-step collection of wastes or community based
collection, resulting in unsanitary conditions in the urban areas affecting the environment
substantially. There are also other issues like the interface area between the Nagar Palikas, the
interface area or the boundary area of the Nagar Pallika which is a an imaginary line on paper, are
always area of dispute between Nagar Palikas. Hence there is usually no solid waste collection
from such areas.
The formation of the AUDA was based on the urban planning and controlling the development
activities. After 1990, AUDA was involved in the different infrastructure project such as roads, over
bridges, street lights, parks and gardens, drainage, storm water line, housing projects and fire
station. Despite of the fact that AUDAs role is limited to undertaking planning and infrastructure
development, people expect it to fulfill all municipal functions, such as solid waste management,
maintenance of roads and maintenance of other infrastructure. In fact, these functions are
supposed to be carried out by Nagarpalikas and Gram Panchayats within AUDA area. However,
they have poor resources and are unable to adequately carry out their functions. As per the
Municipal Solid Wastes (Management and Handling) Rules 2000, every municipal authority is
responsible for collection, segregation, storage, transportation, processing and disposal of
municipal solid waste. While the Development Authorities is only responsible for identifying the
landfill sites and hand over the sites to the concerned municipal Authority for development.

Sewerage Systems
There is inadequate sewage system coverage in the AUDA area. The sewage network in
Ahmedabad city presently caters only to 75% of the area. Untreated sewage is disposed in the river
Sabarmati, due inadequate treatment facility. There is also a problem in the way the individual
soak-pits and septic tanks used are maintained in some the city leading to choking and overflows.
Only half the sewerage is being treated which the rest of it is disposed off in Sabarmati River. Less
polluting industries are also disposing off their wastes either in Kharicut canal or within the estate,
while the rest of the industries of Ahmedabad are putting their effluent into manholes have been
reported. Infiltration of rainwater into the sewage lines is some areas further aggregates the
problems during the monsoon months.
The present method of disposal of sewage by pumping into the river is a very crude wasteful and
objectionable method. The present system also is not capable of delivering the total quantity of
sewage to the outfalls. The Development Plan feels the need of completely redesigning the sewer
system.

Urban Environment
The environment essay in the Draft Development Plan, 1981 and the Draft Development Plan,
1997 part-1, volume-2, is almost same with minute modification in language. Even after more than


80
a decade of development and change the attitude of the authority towards environment havent
changed much.
Environmental monitoring of urban activities has relied mostly on regulations that stipulate what
cannot be done. Air, water and soil pollution is monitored by appropriate public agencies like
Gujarat pollution control board with the exclusive mandate to do so.
In urban Development Plans urban environmental management is mainly done through the
mechanisms of development control regulations, and zoning. Development control regulations
contain stipulations on the densities of development, open spaces, building heights, etc. While
such mechanisms continue to be important, it is essential what we also include positive pro-active
actions that would enable the city to offer itself the opportunities to enhance the larger built
environment. It is important that a Development Plan should include the Development Projects
which are formulated whit a view to enhance the overall urban environment.

Road and Transportation
The peripheral areas of Ahmedabad have poor connectivity with Ahmedabad. The area which were
incorporated within city limits in 1986, are not very well connected and the road network is not fully
develop as proposed in the Development Plan 1987. Partially develop right of ways, poor junction
design and parking. The Ahmedabad lacks public transport and there is a need for a mass or rapid
transport system required which is mentioned as a concern in the D. P. The experience has shown
that failure of the mass transport service to cope up with the demand has brought about increase in
the number of vehicles, without corresponding increase in length and area under roads. One
cannot expect better results with only 20% of total trips being carried by bus transport and the
number of two-wheelers getting doubled in only five years, without improvement in carrying
capacity of the road network.
The heavy volume of traffic coupled with heterogeneous mixed composed of slow and fast vehicles
and stray cattle competing on narrow outdated roads of central area has brought down the average
speed of motor vehicles to almost crawling level in the old city. This has not also adversely affected
the operational efficiency of the major functions but also brought with it the problems of
environment pollution due to noise, exhaust gases etc.
The city is facing the problem of traffic congestion since long and it becomes acute day by day with
the increase of development activities on the fringe area year by year particularly in the eastern and
western part of the city where the rate of growth and trend of development is more to north and
south direction. The work place situated in the central and the eastern part and the residential
areas located on the western part causes the movement of people in remarkable manner from west
to east in the morning and from east to west in the evening. The pick-hours timing makes the
movement very difficult causing the wastage of time and creating lot of pollution. Therefore there is
an urgent need that the Development Plan should consider land use and transportation together to
avoid such mistake in future.

Housing Consideration
The economical breakup of population is very important, on the basis of this the type and amount of
housing target required for each group will be determined. The Development Plan only focuses on
the total existing housing stock and its shortfall. But it there is no mention about, what type of
housing is in shortfall.
It is expected in the Development Plan that public housing agencies particularly AMC, GHB, GRHB,
etc., would separately take up schemes for 25% of total slum dwelling. And the rest slum families
will be remaining and it is expected that this population will have to be dealt separately, there is no
details given in the Plan for dealing with the 75% of sum dwelling.



81
Open Spaces
Open spaces will be basically serving as air lungs to the city in addition to their basic function as
parks, playground, recreation etc., which is badly required to take care of pollution and enhance the
total environmental conditions. At present the city lacks large city level open spaces as well as
neighborhood level open spaces.
AUDA has provided open spaces in its T.P. Schemes, but none of the plots have been developed
till date, according to the Plan. The existing mechanisms for developing open spaces are through
T.P. Schemes and specific reservations for open space. As per todays practice, only 2-3% of the
scheme area goes into open spaces. So in order to improve the green spaces in the city the GDCR
provides for compulsory provision tree during approval of building plan and the trees to be provided
at the rate of 1 tree for every 100 Sq.mts of building unit, but the issue here is that by provision can
we ensure that in reality that number of trees will be planted? And if planted will they be cared for?

Heritage Conservation
Historic, archeological or otherwise culturally significant structure and places, includes buildings
and natural area, contribute a sense of time and scale and identity to the build environment. At
present, there is an immediate need for implementation of heritage conservation regulations, as the
city of Ahmedabad is experiencing indiscriminate partial selling of historic wooden facades, neglect
of buildings and their surroundings, destruction of natural features, vandalism, thoughtless
exploitation of heritage and blatant encroachments.
Hence the Development Plan proposes to introduce special heritage conservation regulation as a
part of the GDCR for the entire city. But this wont be effective in absence of comprehensive listing
of heritage buildings/precincts, so there is a need for comprehensive list of heritage property

Proposed Projects
Slum up gradation
It is proposed that slum networking should be carried out in Ahmedabad. It is a comprehensive
project for upgrading/providing infrastructure in the slums and integrating it with the citys
infrastructure. The slum networking project is addressing the current infrastructure demand in
slums keeping in the view the number of dwelling unit existing in each slums. Simultaneously
expansion / densification of the slums are taking place at a rapid pace. In such a scenario the
infrastructure provided in the slums will become wholly inadequate, over stressed and may nullify
improvement made and leading to degradation of the environment. Therefore there is a need of
slum checking.
Slums are most vulnerable to fire. There is not concern show about fire hazards in low income
housing development as well as slum up gradation in the GDCR.
The Sabarmati river front development project
The Development Plan, 1997 proposed to develop Sabarmati river bank with open spaces of
different nature, appropriate landscaping and other improvement by undertaking a detail separate
project itself. Open space according to the zoning of GDCR allows no construction.
River was a large continuous open space the largest one left in Ahmedabad. Once upon a time this
river acted as a major open space in the summer due to the river bed drying out. Which is lost as
there is barrage built that retain water in the river throughout the year.
The Sabarmati river front development project proposes to reclaim land from either side of the river,
which will reduce the width of the river causing major changes to the natural water body. Reducing
the width of the river will cause reduction in carrying capacity of the river may cause flooding and
heavy erosion. To rectify the carrying capacity there will be a need for dredging the river at a larger
extends which will led to loss of the river bed. The river is not only a city subject, it has a regional
context, such development may lead to a larger regional impact.


82
Map 5.2. Growth Centers in Ahmedabad Urban Development Area
Apart from this the project mentions that 42.08 Hectare of reclaim land will be available for an open
space which is only 26.3% of the total reclaim land. And the rest of the land will be used for
developmental purpose like roads; services etc. and 20% of this land will be used for commercial
and development purpose. So rather than decongesting the existing old city area the project add on
more development, which in fact may led to more congestion.

Issues of the Growth Centers
The wisdom of developing Sanand, Dehgam, Mehmadabad and Kalol as growth centers (for
location of this growth centers refer Map 5.2). However, the assumption that they would check the
flow of migration and direct it away from Ahmedabad, which would ease the pressure on the city, is
certainly open to debate. Some of these questions that require studied answers are: is it wise to
attract population in the newly developing urban centers within the radius of 20 kms from the main
city? Is the proposed level of investment adequate? Even if it is adequate for the internal
development of the concerned town, it is sufficient for it to function as Ahmedabad alter ego? If in
these growth centers jobs are created through new industrial and if other infrastructure
development lags behind, or if due to paucity of resources or change in the strategy due to political
or other reasons if development is stalled temporarily or stopped permanently wont the floating
population jump to Ahmedabad? In that case, will not the effort be counter-productive?
Till date some lands have been acquired for township in these towns by AUDA but no infrastructure
services and facilities for township area. No other lands reserved for public purpose for AUDA and
Local Authorities in these four centres have been acquired as proposed in the sanctioned
Development Plan. Hence the questions raised above are quite valid.

Sanand
Mehmedabad
Kalol
Degham
Source- AUDA, 1997


83
GDCR Provisions
General Development Control Regulation is a very important part of the Development Plan; it
proposes the procedures for developing any area within the legislation of the Development Plan. It
is a control mechanism for controlling the growth of the city in a planned way, in line with the
Development Plan. The GDCR of Ahmedabad Development Plan gives details about the way an
application should be made for any development permission. This application will contain detail of
services provided, the structural safety of the building and fire safety.
All the development should also confirm to other acts and regulations, like the Petroleum Pipelines
(Acquisition of right of user in land) Act, 1962, the Indian Oil, Mines Regulations, 1933,the
Indian Electricity Rules, 1956, regulated as per the provisions of Civil Aviation Department,
Gujarat Smoke Nuisance Act, 1963, Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and Air
Pollution Control Act-1981.
Considering the safety of the citizens and in order to protect the environment and prevent
environmental deterioration, the GDCR prescribes certain condition for a site for construction of the
buildings. The requirement are based on health and sanitary point of view, topography and
drainage aspects, impact on urban aesthetic of environment or ecology and/or on historical/
architectural/esthetical buildings and earthquake intensity.
19

Fire safety and safety of lifts in high rise buildings have been given enough thought in the GDCR.
The prescribed distance from water courses in GDCR doesnt have any justification and there is no
regulation for use of the water body or land use around the water bodies. In case of industrial
development, the GDCR mentions that no industrial effluent shall be disposed or exposed so as to
cause nuisance and endanger public health and there are general provision for controlling air and
water pollution
The GDCR also provides for provisions for special developments like regulations for Gandhi
Ashram: comprehensive area improvement scheme, regulation for existing slum redevelopment
rehabilitation schemes on self financing basis and for Sabarmati river front development scheme.
The GDCR also gives consideration for Physically Handicap Person, but these regulations only
apply to the buildings of physically handicapped persons and buildings and facilities used by the
public, but it does not apply to private & public residences. So what happens to a handicap staying
or going into a residential colony?
5.3.3.4. Implementation
Reservation of Land
The Development Plan prepared in 1981 reserved a total of 800 ha of land under green belt along
the whole of Ahmedabad city. The study carried by ISRO from the Remote Sensing Data 1997, it is
observed that now only 292 ha are lying vacate while the other area has been either encroached or
occupied.
Implementation of 1981 Development Plan has revealed that by one or other reason such as lack
of finances, lack of desire, Urban Land Ceiling Act, opposition from the land owners for the total
deprivation of their land etc. the lands of different reservations have not been acquired and have
been put to respective uses as anticipated in the sanctioned Development Plan by the various
organizations. Ultimately the fate of the lands falling within the reservations is sealed and it has
encouraged litigations and unauthorized encroachment. The most potential land thus is unused and
idle only because of reservations. The noble intention and ideology of the reservations as
envisaged under the act has not achieved. So the present Development Plan proposes special
area T.P. Scheme on top priority for that the 928 hectare of land reserved.

19
The original GDCR of 1997 didnt have any consideration for earthquake, but after the earthquake of 2001
earthquake become an important component for prescribing regulations in the GDCR.


84
Town Planning Scheme (TPS)
Town planning scheme is considered to be most effective instrument for implementing the
Development Plan proposal. Under section 40. (3) A town planning scheme act gives the list of
items that T.P. Scheme can make provision for, some of the important one are listed below-
The preservation of objects of historical or national interest or natural beauty, and of
buildings actually used for religious purpose;
the reservation of land to the extent of 10 % or such percentage as near thereto as
possible of the total area covered under the scheme, for the purpose of providing housing
accommodation to the members of socially and economically backward classes of people;
Allotment of land
The allotment of land from the total area covered under the scheme, to the extent of
I. Fifteen percent for road
II. Five percent for parks, playgrounds, gardens and open spaces,
III. Five percent for social infrastructure such as school, dispensary, fire brigade, public utility
place as earmarked in the draft Town Planning Scheme, and
IV. Fifteen percent for sale by appropriate authority for residential, commercial or industrial use
depending upon the nature of development.
Implementing the Development Plan through T.P. Scheme
At present there are only tow main methods for developing land: Bulk Land Acquisition and Town
Planning Scheme. Bulk Land Acquisition carried out under the Land Acquisition Act ,1894 where
the agency acquire the land and compensation is paid to the owner. The land acquisition procedure
is time consuming, need capital to acquire the land and the compensation is paid on basis of
prevailing price while after developing, the agency sell it at the market price. Due to the
complexities of the land acquisition act, 1984, the land pooling Town Planning Scheme have gain
popularity and The Development Plan of Ahmedabad however totally depends on the TPS for
implementing most of its proposals.
The Development Plan mentions that, the provision of all services and amenities will be however be
worked out in the Town Planning Scheme proposals. TPS is a micro planning instrument, where as
Development plan is a macro planning instrument which envisages the city as one entity. The
Development Plan of Ahmedabad leaves most of the location decision of important services,
infrastructure and amenities to the TPS. How can a TPS meant for an area of about 100 hectare
take decision of locating city level infrastructure, services and amenities? Therefore there is a need
for clearly identifying the component the Development Plan which can be dealt through a Town
Planning Scheme.
The Development Plan has no proposal for housing for weaker section, while it was town planning
scheme that has provision for providing housing for weaker section, but that to extent of 10%. That
means that it can be lower than that. The present draft Development Plan 1997 proposes deduction
of 40% of original plot area shall be made for scheme purpose and the rest of 60% of original
holding shall be allotted to the owner in the form of final plots. The 40% deduction doesnt have any
provision for housing for weaker section. After National Environment policy 2004 stating The key
environmental challenges that the country faces relate to the nexus of environmental degradation
with poverty in its many dimensions. These challenges are intrinsically connected with the state of
environmental resources, such as land, water, air and their flora and fauna. With the present Town
planning scheme provision, the draft Development Plan 1997 total eliminates the provision of
housing for weaker section.

Issues of Town Planning Scheme
It is time consuming and laborious
Delay in sanction to the draft scheme, preliminary scheme and final scheme by govt.


85
Delay in survey of the scheme area and demarcation of proposals of the scheme. Firstly
declaration of intention to prepare town planning scheme takes time, possible due to
absence of appropriate administration structure and shortage of trained staff. Secondly, the
delay in finalization of scheme by the state government encouraging unauthorized
construction and encroachment of reserved plots in TPS. Within AMC area, till now only 40
T.P. schemes have been approved covering only 40 % of the total area and another 16 are
lined up for approval.
Also, certain processes like minor variation in the TPS have to undergo same process as
the preparation of TPS. This results in unnecessary wastage of time and increases that the
cost. Also certain procedures like sending the plan to the TP committee for their approval,
which is not on pre-requisite as per the TP Act, causes delay.
The original Development Plan 1981 of Ahmedabad envisaged provision of green belt in
the city periphery. While preparing the town planning schemes, the reserved area for green
belt was not taken into account. As a result DP green belt was removed but during the
intervening period the entire area got covered with buildings and schemes areas and either
side remained unconnected.
Considerable time passes for implementation of the scheme proposals and collection of
incremental contribution.
Due to delay in every level, estimate of cost of work escalates.
Environmental impact assessment is not evaluated.

Monitoring
Plan monitoring has two main objectives:
The socio-economic and functional efficiency of the performance of human settlement has
to be monitored and evaluated so that changes required to improve the quality of life could
be identified and put into action through the appropriate measures.
The plan should be continuously made responsive to the emerging socio-economic forces.
Development Plan feels that, during the Plan implementation all aspects of development i.e.
housing, transport, work centres, recreation, infrastructure etc., need study and research to make
the plan effective in providing high quality living environment. There is also a requirement of
monitoring frame work to evaluate the achievement of physical targets prescribed in the Plan and
identification of physical and socio-economic change in the city to review the plan policies.
5.4. City Development Strategy (CDS) Ahmedabad
After the 74
th
constitutional amendment act 1992, the urban local bodies in India were given
constitutional status and were endowed with power and functions. The city development stratergy
approach, supported by the World Bank, was a major step in this direction. This concept was first
introduced in India in Tamil Nadu in 1999 where in CDS was prepared for the towns of tirupur and
Coimbatore. Ahmedabad CDS was initiated in 1999 as an integral part of a comprehensive
approach to urban development. The objective of Ahmedabad CDS is to make the cities
sustainable by improving the level and quality of basic services. CDS is a short term plan which
extent to a period of five years prepared for Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation

Vision and goals of the CDS
Formulation of vision and goals are identified in a CDS through a series of consultations with Govt.
officials, Institution and public. This makes the process more participatory, and through this process
the issues are identified and prioritized.


86
The CDS have identified environmental issues identified and these issues are dealt in detail. First
the present situation and issues in each section are identified and than based on issues future
requirement strategies and action Plans/ tasks are identified along with the concern institutions.
The environmental issues dealt by CDS can be categorized in the following way-

Environmental services
Water supply, sewerage system, storm water drainage, solid waste management
Living Environment
Housing and slums- Housing, Slums, Slum Networking Project
Social Amenities- Educational Facilities, Health Facilities, Open Spaces.
Cultural heritage
Physical Environment
Environment Water, Air quality and Noise Pollution.

Issues Related to CDS
CDS is a corporate plan; it is not a statutory Plan like the Development Plan and its an optional
proposition, the Ahmedabad CDS was prepared by the funding of World Bank and it lasted for a
period a period of 3-year. CDS uses the participatory approach for planning, but it major constrains
is its implementation. Implementation is a major concern as the financial alternatives are not
provided in the plan. The strength of CDS lies in its issue identification, prioritization of these issues
and proposal of strategies and actions.
5.5. City Development Plan (CDP) Ahmedabad
In Ahmedabad, in May 2005, in line with the Vibrant Gujarat Vision of the Government of Gujarat,
AMC and AUDA conceived a six-year-plan to ensure delivery of basic infrastructure services to the
entire area under their jurisdiction and set the stage for the next level of development. The
Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (2005-06) also gave the city an opportunity to carry
forward this initiative and place the reform process on a higher plane. This would also be an
opportunity for the city to undertake a mid-course assessment and re-position its priorities with
changing needs within the JNURM framework.
5.5.1. City Development Plan Preparation Process
The City Development Plan presents a perspective of and a vision for future development of the
city. The framework for preparing CDP as outlined in JNNURM toolkit is presented below in figure
5.5. The key aspect of preparation of CDP is that of involving community in decision process. The
city of Ahmedabad has adopted an elaborate consultative process.

Consultations
The underlying principle of the City Development Strategy is to enable cities move in the direction
of becoming more competitive, better managed, livable and bankable. The main objective of the
City Consultations was to develop a long-term vision of Ahmedabads development through a
participatory process involving a wide cross section of citizen including elected representatives,
professionals and other stakeholder groups, identifying the most pressing issues facing the city and
evaluate strategies to achieve the objective.
The stages of consultation process in given below-
Phase-I Consultations: City Visioning and Strategy Formulation.
Phase-II Consultations- The primary objective was to identify projects, assess possible
environmental and social consequences of projects and evolve a management framework.


87
Phase-III Consultations: Detailed Project Formulation- The project identified for this are The
Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project and Bus Rapid Transit Project.

Issues Related to CDP
The City Development Plan is conceived within the JNURM framework, to avail fund from the
central government for developing city level infrastructure. The CDP is more of a city development
project proposal and lacks statutory status.
5.6. City Development Plan and City Development Strategy
Environmental issues in CDP and CDS of Ahmedabad are dealt in detail rather than the
Development Plan. They both identify and proposes strategies for environmental issues like
environmental services (Water supply, Drainage, Sewerage and solid waste), urban environment
(Air, water, Noise) and living environment (Housing and slums- Housing, Social Amenities-
Educational Facilities, Health Facilities, Open Spaces, Cultural Heritage). But Development Plan is
a statutory plan, while CDP and CDS are corporate Plan has no statutory status.
CDP is actually an updated version of CDS and the only difference between the CDS and CDP is
that the CDP proposes Financial Operation Plan for the identified projects in each sector. Since
CDP is prepared under the JNURM, and since a part of the project will be funded through JNURM
this plan implementation will be more viable.
5.7. Inferences and Findings
The Plan Preparation Process
The Town planning/ Development Act
The Town planning/ Development Act specify the procedure for preparing a Development Plan for a
city and through this Acts a development Authority is constituted for planning and regulating the
development of the city. The Town planning/ Development Act of the cities considered for the study
have been enacted at different point of time. The earliest being Delhi Development Act 1957,
followed by Gujarat Town & Urban Development Act 1976 and latter The Greater London Authority

Source CDP Ahmedabad
Figure 5.5. City Development Plan Preparation Process


88
Act 1999. Among all these Acts, it is only the Gujarat Town & Urban Development Act 1976, which
specify the content of the Draft Development Plan and there were come environmental shortfall that
were observed in the content of the Draft Development Plan and they are as follow-
Physical Environment
The content of the Development Plan specifies the use of land in the area, but there is no
mention about the use of water bodies and the river or rivulets. And apart from preventing
water pollution there is no mention of preservation of such water bodies from
encroachment.
The Development Plan provides for supply of water, there is no provision to control the
Living Environment
There is no proposal for reservation of land in the Development Plan for economically
backward class of people or the urban poor who dwell in the slums. There is only provision
of land for economically backward class in the Town planning scheme (extent of 10%
reservation).
There is no provision of preservation of areas of social, religious or sentimental value.
The Development Plan does not have provision to identify the riot prone or vulnerable
places which caused major loss in term of life and property to the cities like the riots of
2002.
Delineation of Development Area
None of the Acts, of the cities considered for the study specifies the basis or criteria for delineation
of development; it is totally left at the discretion of the Government to declare an area as a
development area. Delineation of development area is a political decision; hence one cannot justify
the present form of the development areas.

London Plan 2004 Delhi Master Plan 2021 Ahmedabad Development
Plan 2011
Mayor + Greater London
Authority
Delhi Development Authority
(DDA)
Ahmedabad Urban
Development Authority (AUDA)
The Greater London Authority Act
1999
The Delhi Development Act
1957
Gujarat Town & Urban
Development Act 1976
Mayor's Vision + Consulatation of
the citizens
DDA's Vision AUDA's Vision
Yes No No
15-20 years 20 years 20 Years
3- months 3-months 2- months
Yes Yes No
Responsible Authority
Act under which the Plan is conceived
Vision
Time span of the Plan
Public consulataion period
Exclusive panel Public hearing
P
l
a
n

P
r
e
p
a
r
a
t
i
o
n

Vision
From Development Plan document of Ahmedabad the overall vision of Ahmedabad is not apparent.
While in case London and Delhi plan the Vision is clear conceived and environment and
sustainability are integral part of the vision. The Development Plan of Ahmedabad or the Delhi
Master Plan lacks the initial consultancy process for developing the vision like the London plan. In
case of Ahmedabad D.P 1997 and Delhi MPD 2021 the vision of the city is conceived by the
concern development authority (an appointed body), while in case of London the Mayor (elected
Table 5.5. Summary of the Preparation Process of the Development Plans


89
representative of the city) through a consultation process along with the citizens conceives the
vision, making the process more democratic and participatory.
London Plan goes through a Sustainable Appraisal process during the preparation stage, which
increases the environmental credibility of the Plan, while Delhi and Ahmedabad Plan has no such
provision during the preparation process.
Public consultation/ Inspection by Public
London Plan and the Master Plan of Delhi have a public consultation period of 3-Months, while
citizens Ahmedabad has only 2-month time for going through the Development Plan and making
suggestion. In case of Ahmedabad the people who have seen the plan are unanimous in their
opinion that a two-month period to comment on such a massive, comprehensive and long-term
Plan is woefully inadequate, Particularly when the facilities for study and dialogue are poor and the
documents not easily available during the period.
The suggestion and objection to the London Plan and the Master Plan of Delhi goes through an
exclusive panel public hearing where all the objection and suggestion are considered and a report
is sent to the concern authority for reflection. The Exclusive panel in case of London is appointed
by the elected Government (democratic), while in Delhi it is appointed by the Delhi development
Authority. In case of Ahmedabad Development Plan no such panel is appointed. The London plan
preparation process is more sensitive towards environment and is more participatory than the Delhi
and Ahmedabad Master/ Development Plan.

Environmental Consideration in the Development Plan
Environment, sustainability and green cities are very common word used in formulating the
objective of a Development Plan. In case of environmental consideration in the plans, both the
London and Delhi Plans have tried to incorporate their environmental objective in the Plan. While in
case of Ahmedabad it is just another common word. The environmental objective of the Plan, is no
where reflected in the Plan, except for some provision in the GDCR. As mention earlier the
environmental attitude in Ahmedabad have not changed much over a decade, the same
environmental essay of 1981 have been repeated in the plan prepared in 1997 with minor language
modifications. This actually portrays the attitude of the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority
towards environment. The London and Delhi Plans are much more sensitive towards environment
than the Ahmedabad Development Plan. The levels of the environmental consideration in the plans
are given below in the table5.6.
Table 5.6. Environmental Components in the Plans
Plan 2011
To accommodate Londons
growth within its boundaries
without encroaching on
open spaces and to make
London a more attractive,
well-designed and green city
Creation of a sustainable
physical and social
environment for improving
quality of life
To create good environment
and to minimize the
environment pollution
Support the establishment
of green Industries and
green practices
Spell out norms for industries
based on environmental
consideration
No major environmental
consideration except for
regulation to control effluent
disposal
Industries
Objective considering Environment
E
n
v
i
r
o
n
m
e
n
t
a
l

C
o
m
p
o
n
e
n
t

C
o
n
s
i
d
e
r
e
d


90
Table 5.6 Environmental Components in the Plans (Continued)

Plan 2011
Reduction of waste,
Municipal solid waste
management strategy for the
area, spatial policies, criteria
for selection of sites for
waste management and
disposal, waste produced
and disposal method.
Recycling of solid waste,
alternative to landfills like-
vermiculture, fossilization and
composting, constitution of
Waste Minimization Circles and
implementation and monitoring
of Bio-Medical Wastes( Handling
& Management) Rules 1998
Waste is of least concern, no
study of solid waste situation
and no proposal for
management.
Better use of aggregates, re-
use of construction and
demolition waste
No policy for Minerals No policy for Minerals
Strategies for -integration of
land use and transport
policy, promoting
sustainable design and
construction, air quality
assessments at planning
stage, promoting cleaner
transport fuels, modeling of
scenarios, monitoring plan
Source of pollution, Stress on
public transportation policy,
control of designated industries.
Mentions about problem of Air
pollution, DCR mentions that
competent authority may
stipulate conditions for
controlling air pollution.
Promoting Energy efficiency
and renewable energy, zero
carbon development,
promoting technology and
design to conserve energy.
Energy assessment of
proposed major
developments
Concept of energy efficiency in
buildings, Zero-fossil
Development and Energy Audit.
Promoting use of renewable
energy as an mandatory
requirement in buildings like use
of Solar energy
Only mention of agency dealing
with power supply.
Demand for Water supplies,
Water quality and strategies,
maximizing rainwater
harvesting opportunities,
using grey water recycling
systems, repair or
replacement of water supply
infrastructure
Demand for water supplies,
promoting rainwater harvesting
at building level and site level,
concept of "Zero run-off
drainage" protecting the ecology
of aquifers, guidelines for site
planning to promote ground
water recharge, waste water
recycling.
Demand for water supplies,
need to investigate sources of
supply, existing water supply
coverage, GDCR provides for
provision of percolation well for
building unit exceeding 1500 sq.
mtrs for promoting ground water
recharge. Mentions about
proposal for developing
Talav/lakes
Improving the present
infrastructure in order to
have safe, reliable system
and minimizes
environmental damage
Provision of low cost sanitation
system where regular system is
not available, Decentralization of
STP's at sub city level and
mentions possibility of
recovering energy/ gas as fuel
from sewerage
Existing problems, need to
redesign, enlarge and extend
the present sewerage system
E
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d
Planning for Waste
Sewerage system
Water
Air
Energy


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Table 5.6. Environmental Component in the Plans (Continued)

Environment is a major force driving London and hence the Plan proposes to use resource
efficiently, hence it proposes to accommodate growth without encroaching on green space,
while Delhi and Ahmedabad are increasing their spread of the cities and hence loosing out
the green space for development.
London Plan proposes to use natural resources more efficiently, increase its re-use of
resources and reduce levels of waste and environmental degradation, while no such
concern are shown in Ahmedabad Development Plan, while Delhi master plan attempts to
re-use resource it water resource.
The London Plan gives an opportunity to plan growth in ways that make better use of key
resources such as land, buildings and construction materials, water, energy and waste, it
proposes policies for land utilization, re-use of construction material, use of grey water and
harvesting rainwater, use of renewable energy and Energy assessment of building and
Plan 2011
Sustainable Drainage,
promoting biodiversity, flood
plain and flood defense,
promotion of Design
guidelines
Source of pollution,
identification of measures for
rejuvenation of the river.
Source of pollution, mentions
proposal for river front
development
spatial Strategies,
transportation strategies
Permissible limits,
implementation of Noise
pollution (level) rules 2000,
measures to prevent noise
pollution
Mention about the problem of
noise pollution in some areas-
no details provided.
Impacts of climate change
and strategies
issue not considered Issue not considered
Strategies dealing with
Hazardous substances
Location and storage based on
the disaster management plan.
No consideration
Affordable housing,
Improving conditions for
walking and cycling, design
consideration for disabled,
children and old people,
developing the open spaces
and recreational area,
biodiversity and nature
conservation, conserving the
built heritage/ historic
environment and protecting
the view. social infrastructure
(health, sport, security and
education)
Housing for poor, planning
norms for recreational and
green areas, declination of
heritage zones, conservation of
built heritage, social
infrastructure provision
standards (health, education,
sport, security and education)
Social infrastructure provision
standards(health, education,
sport, security and education)
based on Delhi master plan,
Provision for physically
handicap in building design
used by them, compulsory
provision of trees during
building approval, Slum
upgradation, conditions for site
construction based on
environmental consideration,
proposes to introduce special
heritage conservation
regulation
Hazardous substance
Living Environment
River
E
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Noise
Climate change


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waste management. While incase of Ahmedabad no such attempts are made. While Delhi
master plan provides for rainwater harvesting, recycle of waste waster, use of non
renewable energy, energy assessment of buildings and solid waste with innovative
methods to prevent the need of landfills.
Ambient noise and Air quality along with biodiversity is considered in the London Plan.
Ahmedabad Development Plan has a mentioned about the air and noise pollution problem
but no effective remedies have been proposed. Delhi is still trying to reduce the Air
pollution and try to reduce Noise pollution through development policies.
The London Plan as well as the Delhi Master Plan has given enough thought about
disaster management while Ahmedabad has to yet evolve a strategy.
The London Plan gives enough consideration for housing affordability, housing deficits and
culture and ethnic composition of the population and provides policies for it. While in Delhi
the housing requirement is calculated along with the composition of housing but lack
consideration for affordability of housing and the culture of the people. Ahmedabad is an
extreme case where it gives details of vacant houses, slum and housing deficits, but it
doesnt consider affordability of housing and culture. The plan proposes only to deal with
25% of the slum population and it does not give the detail composition of the housing type
proposed.

Other issues influencing Environment
The Population - existing population and projected population figure are very important to
determine the level of services the city should provide today and in future. Resources like land,
water are scare; population beyond holding capacity will lead to deterioration of over all
environment. The whole concept of population projection need to questioned, since all the
estimation of infrastructure, amenities and other services are solely based on it.

Land use- most of the land use decisions are dominated by economic criterias, the land suitability
study focuses mostly on potential of developing the land. Land use decision plays the most
important role for protecting and improving the overall environment. The land use classification
also needs to be consistent in order to understand the kind of land use changes that a
Development Plan has proposed.

Flood hazards, Earthquake and Disaster management- the Development Plan of Ahmedabad give
no consideration for disaster management. The attitudes towards such disasters are re-active, after
the disaster certain changes were made in the GDCR. The Ahmedabad D.P is yet to give a
comprehensive pro-active thought for a disaster management.

Implementation and Monitoring
Implementation and monitoring are the most important component of the Development Plan, what
is the use of the Development Plan document if the proposal and the strategies are not
implemented. The past experience of the previous Development Plan of Ahmedabad reveals that
there has been little practical convergence between the Development Plan and the actual
development. The Delhi Master Plan and the Ahmedabad D.P only prescribe development control
norms, which are apparently and frequently violated leading to growing variation between the plan
and the actual city of the ground. In case of London Plan, it prescribes annual phasing plan for
phasing the London plan proposals and it also identifies the stakeholders and their contribution,
which is very much lacking in Ahmedabad and Delhi Plan. Apart from implementation monitoring of
the plan is very essential.


93
Incase London Plan lays down objective-wise performance indicator for the plan monitoring and
published an annual monitoring report, based on the report suitable changes are made in the plan,
this kind of mechanism are presently absent in Master Plan of Delhi and Development Plan of
Ahmedabad. But Master plan Delhi at least has Monitoring framework and there are attempts made
to setup a monitoring unit (Table 5.7. gives the summary of the implementation and monitoring
programme of each plan).

Table 5.7. Implementation and Monitoring
London Plan 2004 Delhi Master Plan 2021 Ahmedabad Development Plan
2011
Indicative average annual phasing
of growth in jobs and homes,
Phasing of public transport
capacity increases and main
stakeholders and their contribution
Development code Development Control Regulation,
Formulation of Draft T.P. Scheme,
stakeholders involvement.
objective-wise London Plan
performance measuring indicators,
publish annual monitoring report-
state of strategic planning in
London and set priorities for the
coming year
Monitoring framework for
development, monitoring unit
Mentions about the need for a
monitoring framework
Monitoring
Implementation



94
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C Co on nc cl lu us si io on ns s a an nd d P Pr ro op po os sa al l
6.1. Conclusions
Over time with the increasing environmental problem in cities, various attempts were made to
protect and prevent environmental deterioration. In India, today there are about 200 legislation,
policies and regulation to protect environment and many more yet to come. Even after existence of
all these planning and protective laws, the environment of cities in India is deteriorating. City like
Ahmedabad have been preparing Development Plan for past two decades and hence the
Development Plans contribution towards its environment is becoming a concern. From the previous
chapter it is unmistakably evident that lack of environmental consideration in the statutory
Development Plan is partly responsible for the environmental deterioration in the Ahmedabad.
The London Plan and Delhi Master Plan have tried their best to incorporate their respective
environmental issues in the Plan, while the Development Plan of Ahmedabad only talks about the
environment as a part of its aim, but this aim doesnt reflect much in the Development Plan; apart to
it concern about air and water pollution. Around the globe the environmental emphasis has
changed because of the realization that environmental considerations should not be limited to
concerns about just pollution control but should be more positive in aiming to create more
comfortable, pleasant and stimulating surroundings natural and manmade environments.
All the Plans considered for the study were prepared in different point of time, the Ahmedabad
Development Plan was prepared in 1997, London Plan in 2004 and Delhi Master Plan in 2005,
hence it is not actually desirable to compare London Plan and Delhi Plan with Ahmedabad D.P.
But after comparing the last two Development Plans of Ahmedabad (1981 and 1997), it can be
concluded that the attitude towards environment in Ahmedabad have not changed for more than a
decade. Planning is a continuous process, with time new issues emerge and new legislations are
enacted to protect environment. The Development Plan is a long term plan and hence it cant afford
to be static and rigid, it needs to be continues process where there should be timely incorporation
of the emerging issues and the new legislations in the Development Plan.
The development planning process of Ahmedabad needs to be more democratic, like the case of
London Plan. Ahmedabad Development Plan needs to incorporate the public consultancy
mechanism before preparing the Plan. The public consultancy will help the development authority
to make the whole planning process more participatory and will help to understand the citizens
aspiration towards the city. Through the consultancy process a vision of the city can be proposed
with public and authorities co-operation. Apart from this, the duration two month for public
inspection of the Development Plan is inadequate to serve the purpose within the mention time,
while the citizens of London and Delhi get a period of 3 month for public inspection, in order to raise
objection and suggest changes.
The content of the Draft Development Plan in town planning act needs to be review since there are
certain changes required as pointed out in section 5.2.3. The environmental components should be
given more importance in the content, which will help to preserve and protect the environment of
the area. Although a significant amount of time and resource are spent, AUDA still does not have a
comprehensive, up to-date database, environmental components are not addressed explicitly and
study maps do not cover all ecological characteristics. The whole planning process is affected due
to lack of up-to-date base maps, and limitations of data create difficulties in quantifying and
assessing the existing situation. Hence there is a need to build a good accurate and reliable data
base for the city. Apart from building good accurate database and maps, there is also a need to
address the current environmental issues in the Development Plan. This would help in making the
Development Plan more sensitive towards the environment and will protect and enhance the
environment of the Ahmedabad.


95
that the Development Plan is properly implemented within the plan period. Like the areas proposed
to be developed as open space in the Development Plan 1987 have not been implemented and
thus have now been encroached upon by unauthorized development often leading to uncontrolled
and haphazard development. This is due to either lack of will shown by the authority to implement
the plan or due to financial constrain. There is a need to set up a monitoring unit to monitor both the
implementation of the plan and the functioning of the authority and publishes a performance review,
which would help in making timely adjustment in the plan. There are even problems in caused due
to delay in sanctioned Development Plan/ town planning schemes by government. Like the
Development Plan prepared in 1997 was sanctioned in May 2002. Sanctioning of the Plan is a
political issue and looking at the present political system it a difficult proposition to expect any
speedy sanction. Even the Town Planning Scheme which is considered by the Development Plan
as an important instrument for implementing the plan are delayed, since time limit is specified in
1976 town planning act for publication of draft schemes but there is no time limit for Town planning
officer to complete the scheme.
Development Plan is an important mechanism for development of an urban area, but in real life
development is taking place on it own without any concern for the plan. Hence the Development
Plan remains a costly piece of document which doesnt consider environment and the need of the
area and the people. Hence present environmental problem of Ahmedabad is partly due to lacuna
in the development planning system. Based on the lacunas identified in the study, an attempt is
made to prepare a framework for preparing an environmentally sensitive Development Plan.
6.2. Proposal
Based on the finding of the study, an attempt is made to prepare a framework which would help in
conceiving an environmental sensitive Development Plan for Ahmedabad. This framework is
divided into three major heads, that is -
The Plan Preparation
The Development Plan Document and its Components
Implementation, Monitoring and Review
6.2.1. The Plan Preparation
Delineation of Development Area
Delineation of development area is a political issue. The present odd shape of the Ahmedabad
development area is a product of a political decision, which includes town as far as 30 km away
and ignores developing area 6km away. There is an urgent need to re-define the boundary of the
Ahmedabad urban development area, and the decision should be based on a scientific study and
not political interest.

Vision
The presently the vision of Ahmedabad is not apparent in the Development Plan document. Before
the Plan is prepared, there should be a public consultancy process carried out. The public
consultancy will help the development authority to make the whole planning process more
participatory and will help to understand the citizens aspiration towards the city. Apart from public
participation there is also a need of involving the state government, the local bodies, other
authorities and department functioning in the development area, together they can develop a vision
for the development area. The vision should also consider the state and national level policies.



96

Identifying and Prioritizing the Issues
Presently the development authority identify the issues, the process can be made more
participatory involving public, the local bodies, other authorities and public institutions functioning
Ahmedabad Urban Development
Area
Existing
Delineation of the
Development Area
The State
Government
Based on a
Scientific Study
Development
Authority
Political Decision
Vision
Existing Policies-
State / Central
Public
Participation
Identify and Prioritize
Issues
In General
Environmental

The Town Planning & Urban
Development Act
The Content of the
Development Plan
Addition in the Act-
refer section 5.2.3.
Inspection by
Public 2- Months
Option 1- Inspection by Public 3
Months
Local bodies,
other Authorities
and public
Institutions
Option 2- Improve the Facilities for
Public inspection
Exclusive Panel hearing required to
make the process more participatory
Objection & suggestion considered
by the Development Authority
Development Plan
Existing
Proposed
Additions
Proposed
Additions
Figure 6.1. Proposed Framework for Plan Preparation


97
within the development area. Through this process the issues should be clearly identified as
general and issues of environmental importance and further they can be given priority.
The Town planning and Urban Development Act
Content of the Development Plan
The environmental components should be given more importance in the content, which will help to
preserve and protect the environment of the area. The environmental component observed are-
The content of the development specifies the use of land in the area, but there is also need
to specify the use of water bodies and the river or rivulets. And apart from preventing water
pollution, it should also include preservation of such water bodies from encroachment.
There is need for reservation of land in the Development Plan for economically backward
class of people or the urban poor who dwell in the slums.
The Development Plan provides for supply of water, it also needs provision to control the
There is a need for preservation of areas of social, religious or sentimental value.
The Development Plan should have provision to identify the riot prone or vulnerable places
which caused major loss in term of life and property to the cities like the riots of 2002.
The Inspection by Public
The duration two month for public inspection of the Development Plan is inadequate to serve the
purpose within the mention time, while the citizens of London and Delhi get a period of 3 month for
public inspection, in order to raise objection and suggest changes. There is a need either to
increase the time frame to 3 month or improve the facilities for public inspection, like making the
plan available on time, making the plan available online and copies for all local bodies functioning
within the area. Apart from this there is also a need for appointing an exclusive panel for hearing
the suggestion and objection towards the plan and this panel will submit a report to the authority
about the changes required in the Development Plan. This process will help in making the process
more participatory and democratic.
6.2.2. The Development Plan Document and its Components
Figure 6.2. Framework for the Development Plan Document

Database and Studies
Although a significant amount of time and resource are spent, AUDA still does not have a
comprehensive, up to-date database, environmental components are not addressed explicitly and
study maps do not cover all ecological characteristics. Hence there is a need to build a good
accurate and reliable database for the city. The kind of database the authority should build and
update is given below.
Develop an accurate and reliable
database and conduct relevant studies
Environment components to be
considered
Acts, regulation and Policies to be
integrated in the Development Plan
Development Plan


98
Demographic: population size, population distribution in relation to holding capacity, age
sex structure, household size, rate of migration, causes of migration and Education level.
Accurate base map of the development area.
Existing Landuse map including computation of FSI consumed.
Topography, soil, slope details (contour map) and climate data.
Existing levels of infrastructure road, water supply, sewerage, storm water drainage,
power supply, communication networks.
Details of proposed and ongoing city level projects and their implementation status (both
public and private)
Environment: Air quality, Water potential and quality (surface water, ground water and
piped water supply) and noise level (mapped within the Development area), access of
population to safe drinking water, access to sanitation, removal of solid waste.
Transport: traffic volume, model split, trip length, trip purpose, vehicle ownership, vehicle
population, age of vehicles, public transport
Housing: Slum and squatter settlements, housing type and composition, distribution of
households by income, vacancy rate and housing stress areas.
Economic Aspects: occupation, Income distribution, Employment, Participation rate,
Employment in different sectors and shifting pattern.
Industries: Type and scale of industries
Social infrastructure: level and distribution of Health facilities, distribution of police and fire
services, distribution of recreational facilities and level and distribution education facilities.
Natural Disasters: Floods intensity areas & effected population, Earthquake and any other
natural disasters etc.
Studies Required in Ahmedabad
The various kinds of studies which would help in conceiving the Development Plan are given below.
Land Suitability Study- based on environmental consideration and anticipation
environmental impact.
Holding Capacity of the city based on its natural resource.
Detailed hydro geological study is required to access the utilization and developmental
potential of the groundwater system quantitatively in the AUDA area.
A systematic survey involving collection of groundwater sample for quality analysis is
required to access the potential of the water precisely.

Environment Components to be Considered
The present level of environmental deterioration is because of lack of Environmental concerns in
the Development Plan. The study have tried to identify the lacuna in the present Development Plan
and thereby proposing the environmental components that need to be integrated in the
Development Plan. The following component are listed below, there is also an attempt made to list
down some new environmental concept in their respective components.
Industries: Integrate Green practices, integrating eco-industrial estate development,
development norm should consider environment, clearly spelling out strategies for
managing industrial pollution and waste, integrate the rule the Environment (Siting for
Industrial Projects) Rules, 1999 relating to planning industrial area and integrate the Acts
dealing with industrial pollution.
Planning for Waste: the Development Plan should assess the waste generated and
develop waste reduction, management and handling strategies. Promote recycling of
waste, Identify the site for safe disposal of waste and even alternative to landfills can be
developed like vermiculture, fossilation and composting. The waste should be handled and


99
managed according to Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) rules, 2000,
Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000, and Bio-Medical Waste
(Management and Handling) rules, 2003.
Planning for Minerals: with the development of cities there is increase in demand for
construction material. Since most of the construction materials are derived from nature.
There is a need of timely intervention before the resources get exhausted. The
Development Plan can promote the better use of aggregates, re-use of construction and
demolition waste.
Air: there is a need of integration of land use and transportation policy. Identify the pollution
sources and carry out air quality assessment, promote cleaner transportation fuels, prepare
a Monitoring Plan and integrate the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
Energy: assess the demand for power, promote energy efficiency and renewable energy;
introduce concepts like energy efficiency in building, zero-fossil development and energy
audit. Promoting use of renewable energy (solar energy) through development code.
Requirement for energy assessment of proposed development.
Water: assess the demand for water supplies, maximizing rainwater harvesting
opportunities, guidelines to promote ground water recharge, waste water recycling and
integrating The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
Sewerage: installing reliable system and prevent untreated disposal, decentralization of
STPs can be an option.
Noise: spatial strategies to reduce noise pollution, implementation of Noise Pollution
(Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
Living environment: provision of affordable housing and improving condition for pedestrian
and cyclist. Design consideration for disabled, children and old people. Protection and
development of open spaces and recreational area. Delineation and conservation of
heritage / historic environment and standards for social infrastructure provision.
Disaster Management: along with Development Plan, prepare a disaster management plan
for Ahmedabad.
Plan for natural and Man-made Hazards.

Other Acts, Regulation and Policies to be Integrated
Below is the list of Acts that needs to be considered in the Development Plan.
Environment Acts
The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
The Chemical Accidents (Emergency Planning, Preparedness and Response) Rules, 1996
The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
The Environment (Siting for Industrial Projects) Rules, 1999
Hazardous Wastes (Management and Handling) rules, 2000
Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2000
Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000
Bio-Medical Waste (Management and Handling) rules, 2003
Draft National Environment Policy, 2004
EIA- Draft Notification for projects, 2005
Other Acts related to Planning
The Easement Act, 1882
The land Acquisition Act, 1894


100
The Bombay Provincial Municipal Corporation Act 1949
Indian Electricity Rules, 1956
The Gujarat Municipal Act, 1963
The Gujarat town Planning and Urban Development Act, 1976
The Constitution of 74th Amendment Act, 1992
Draft National Slum Policy, 1999
The Gujarat State Disaster Management Act, 2003
Draft National Urban Housing and Habitat Policy, 2005
6.2.3. Implementation, Monitoring and Review
Figure 6.3. Framework for Implementation, Monitoring and Review

Implementation
that the Development Plan is properly implemented within the plan period. To achieve timely
implementation an annual phasing plan of each component of the Development Plan can be
formulated and prioritizes can be decided. Along with phasing plan all the main stakeholders and
the implementation agency should identified and their role in the implementing the Development
Plan needs to be specified. The Town Planning Scheme or Land Acquisition are the instrument
available for implementation of the Development Plan, but the choice of the instrument for
implementing a particular development project or any component of the project should be specified
in the Development Plan. Apart from all these, the Development Plan will also propose a detailed
Annual Phasing Plan
Development Plan
Stakeholders and
Implementation Agency
The implementation
Instrument
Development Code
Relevant Acts, Regulation and
Policies
Monitoring Framework
Performance Measurement AUDA D.P
Annual Monitoring Report
Adjustment in the Development Plan


101
development code, which is commonly known as General Development Control Regulation in
Gujarat. The relevant Acts, Regulation and Policies mentioned earlier in the section 6.2.2 should
also be integrated in the development codes.

Monitoring and Review
The Development Authority will prepare a Monitoring framework for the components of the
Development Plan and specify the period for monitoring. The relevant Acts, Regulation and Policies
mentioned earlier in the section 6.2.2 should also be integrated in the monitoring framework, to
prevent violation of the legislations. Apart from this an annul Monitoring report will be prepared by
the authority and suitable adjustment made to the Development Plan based on the annual report
published. To assess the credibility of the Authority and the Development Plan, an exclusive panel
should be appointed by the state Govt. to measure their performance. This process will help in
carrying out timely adjustment in the development planning process and prevent damage to the
environment.



102
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Development Plan and Environment - A case of Ahmedabad
Year Relevant Acts, Program's, Events and
Policies , amendments
Country Salient features / remark
2700-
1700
bc.
Indus valley civilization India Advanced by 2500 b.c -these cities were laid out
according to some preconceived plans, with high
standards of public health. The people of Mohenjo-Daro
and Harappa took aims to plan baths, lavatories, drains
and fresh water tanks. This reflected their concerns for
community sanitation and health
18th -
19th
Industrial Revolution England landscape of English was reshaped by the industrial
revolution.
Industrialization was accompanied by rapid urbanization
1845 The great Indian peninsular railway company England/India 1852 made trial runs
1859 Forest and Herbiage Act southern Africa Govt,. Of Cape town colony- allowing the state to
intervene and take over areas of wild and forest
threatened with destruction
1860 Bombay Irrigation Act India Sec. 61 penalizes the person who corrupts or fouls water
of any canal.
1860 The Indian penal code India Chapter XIV and particularly sec. 268 and 277 deal with
public nuisances and offences affecting the public health
and safety
1864 Appointment of the sanitary commissions India for three presidencies of Bengal, Bombay and madras-
under direction of the royal sanitary commission
appointed by British parliament in 1859
1864 Indian forest department established by
British
India India is one of the First countries in the world to have
stated scientific management of its forests. Dr. Dietrich
Brandis, a German Forest officer was appointed as
Inspector General of Forests in 1866. Established having
recognized the need to have a premier forest service to
mange the varied natural resources of the vast country
and to organize the affairs of the Imperial Forest
Department
1870 Railway colonies and towns originated India
1872 Bombay Municipal Act India The duties of the Corporation were set out
1873 North India Canal and Drainage Act India prevent damage to any stream or river
1882 Indian Easements Act India allows private rights to use a resource that is,
groundwater, by viewing it as an attachment to the land. It
also states that all surface water belongs to the state and
is a state property and protects riparian owners against
unreasonable pollution by upstream users
1878 comprehensive Indian forest act India supersede a preliminary act of 1865, Forests were divided
into reserve forests, protected forests and village forests.
Several restrictions were imposed upon the peoples
rights over forest land and produce in the protected and
reserved forests.
1892 1st national park created America yellow stone
1894 The Land Acquisition Act India was enacted for the purpose of compulsorily acquiring of
land required for public purpose or for purpose of
companies and for determination of the amount of
compensation to be paid on account of such acquisition
1896 The code of Criminal Procedure India sec 133 and 144 provide for removal of public nuisance.
1897 Indian fisheries Act. India establishes two sets of penal offences whereby the
government can sue any person who uses dynamite or
other explosivesubstance in any way (whether coastal or
inland) with intent to catch or destroy any fish or
poisonous fish in order to kill
Appendix - A
Urban Planning and Environment- Acts and Regulations
Rohit Nadkarni
School of Planning,CEPT 105 Appendix- A
1898 1st city improvement trust in the country -
Bombay
India In response to the plague epidemic of 1896, through an
Act of the Parliament, It undertook a host of measures to
improve sanitary and living conditions in the city, repealed
in 1925
1900 1st international environment conference London topic was the protection of wildlife of Africa
1900 Kharagpur built by the Bengal Nagpur
railways
India Railway settlement
1903 City Improvement Trust -Mysore India
1907 Jamshedpur built India Modern layout
1908 Indian Ports Act India Enactment relating to ports and port charges. Provides for
rules for the safety of shipping and conservation of ports.
1909 British housing and town planning act Britain legislation to bring the new residential standards into more
general use
1911 City Improvement Trust -Calcutta India
1911 Delhi declared the new capital of British India
Empire
India
1912 Hyderabad improvement trust India
1913 Town planning acts was enacted in Bombay India On the lines of the British housing and town planning act
1909. This enabled local authorities to regulate suburban
development's layout and density
1915 Patric Geddes visited India India Geddes unsparingly explained that survey was more
important than good surface planning. The planner must
consider the citizen's potential and evolution within his
environment
1919 The Uttar Pradesh Town Improvement Act India
1919 City Improvement Trust -Lucknow, Kanpur India
1919 Delhi improvement trust India Extension of U.P. Act 1919
1919 Poisons Act India
1920 Town planning acts was enacted in Madras India On the lines of the British housing and town planning act
1909
1920 city improvement trust -Allahabad India Created under the united provinces town improvement act
of 1919
1922 Town Improvement Act -Punjab India brought into effect only in1936 by constituting Lahore
Improvement Act.
1923 Indian Boilers Act India prohibits the use of unregistered and uncertified Boilers
1927 Indian forest Act India is one of the many surviving colonial statutes. It was
enacted to consolidate the law related to forest, the
transit of forest produce, and the duty leviable on timber
and other forest produce.
1928 the ghandian view of the simple life India
1928 The protection of rural England England the growth of agrarian parties in eastern Europe to defend
the peasants from exploitation by the city dwellers
1931 New Delhi planned and design by Edward
lutyens completed
India New capital of India designed on modern town planning
principles
1933 Bombay improvement act merged with
Bombay municipal corporation.
India
1936 The Nagpur Improvement Trust Act India Certain schemes of the Corporation such as underground
drainage scheme, schemes for improvement of road
junctions are executed by the Trust on behalf of the
Corporation
1937 town improvement act -Nagpur India
1945 The city of Bangalore improvement Act India Repealed in1976
1945 The Kanpur Urban Area (Development) Act India
1945 Minamata Disease Japan suffering is all a result of the very wrongful and negligent
acts
of the Chisso Corporation who dumped mercury into the
sea water and
poisoned the people of Japan
1945 Hiroshima bombing Japan
Rohit Nadkarni
1946 Madras improvement act India
1946 the health survey and development
committee (HSDC)
India it discussed several aspects of town planning, while
dealing with problems of improving mans physical
environment.
1946 The blood of the village India
1947 Mines and mineral (Regulation and
Development) Act
India lays down the legal frame-work for the regulation of mines
and development of all minerals other than petroleum and
natural gas
1948 The West Bengal Land Development and
Planning Act
India
1948 The Bihar Restriction of uses of Land Act India
1948 The Madhya Pradesh Town Planning Act
1948 The Factories Act India Was the first to express concern for the working
environment of the workers. the 1987 amendment to the
factories act empowers the state to appoints site appraisal
committees to advise on initial location of factories using
hazardous process and deal with disposal of water
effluents
1949 The Bombay Provincial Municipal
Corporation Act
India Chapters XII and XVII and sections 310 to 314 of this act
deal with the subject of pollution
1950 Environment issues- reflected in the
constitution of the Republic of India
India
1950 The Madras City Improvement Trust Act India
1951 Industries (Development and Regulation) Act India An Act to provide for the development and regulation of
certain industries
1951 Town planning Act - Bihar India
1951 The Hyderabad city improvement Act India
1951-
56
1st five year plan India Need to link up various solutions to the housing problems
of India permanently with sound town and country
planning.
1952 Mines Act India seeks to regulate the working conditions in mines by
providing measures to be taken for the safety of the
workers employed therein
1954 Bombay town planning Act India incorporated the provisions of Bombay Town Planning
Act, 1915, and in addition made it obligatory on every loca
authority (barring village panchayats) to prepare a
development plan for the entire area within its jurisdiction.
Came into force in 1957
1956-
61
2nd five year plan India Each state should have a phased programme for the
survey and preparation of master plans for all important
town. These should providefor integration of land use and
zoning principles in each town or area with a view to
obtaining the maximum amount of efficiency and
economy in working and living condition. town and country
planning legislation should be enacted in all the states and
necessary machinery for its implementation should be set
up.
1956 River Boards Act India enables the states to enroll the central government in
setting up an Advisory River Board to resolve issues in
inter-state cooperation
1956 Slum areas (Improvement and Clearance)
Act
India
1956 The Orissa Town Planning and Improvement
Act
India
1956 Indian Electricity Rules India regulates and controlles the horizontal and vertical clear
distances to be kept open to sky near vicinity of grid
lines.
1957 Delhi Development Act India Provision for master plan and replaced the Delhi
improvement trust
1958 Ancient monuments and Archaeological Act India
1959 The Assam Town and Country Planning Act India
1960 the Radioactive Protection Act U.K.
Rohit Nadkarni
1961-
66
3rd five year plan India Master plans for 61 class i and class ii cities and regional
plan for 11 regions. Central regional and urban planning
organization. A general approach to industrial location was
adopted in the early sixties.
1961 the Karnataka Town and Country Planning
Act
Amended in1965- i) Constitution of a high power State
Town Planning Board at State level for evolving
policies, programmes on Town Planning.
ii) Constitution of Planning Authorities at City and Town
level for preparation of Development Plan and
enforcement.
1961 The Gujarat Pancahyat Act. India this act enables the district panchayat to make bye-laws
fro purification and protection and protection from
pollution of sources of water and for other connected
matters
1962 American movements date its beginning to
Rachel Carsons book on pesticide pollution,
Silent spring
U.S.A the bible and founding event of the modern
environmentalism
1962 The Atomic Energy Act India
1962 1st Delhi Master Plan India Aim- to ensure that the spatial pattern of development,
and use of land, could conform to the development plan
and infrastructure and services could be laid out to the
match the same.
1962 Petroleum Pipelines (Acquisition of right of
user in land) Act
India
1963 The Gujarat Municipal Act. India this act include in the functions of municipality the duty
and functions of regulating or abating offensive or
dangerous trades or practices, taking steps to prevent
damages to the health of the inhabitants from the
insufficiency or unwholesomeness of the existing water
supply
1963 Fazlore rehman committee on urban land
policy
India To examine the problems of urban land and suggest
policy measures on the subject
1965 Solid Waste Disposal Act. U.S.A U.S. Congress financed a statewide survey of dumps and
landfills to better understand the scope of waste disposal
problems in the U.S. The Act also provided more waste
management safeguards
1965 The nuclear Installation Act U.K. Establishes the nuclear licensing system and third party
liability obligations
1966 The Maharashtra Urban and Regional
Planning Act
India to prepare regional plans, development plans arid town
plan-ning schemes under the provisions of the
Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act
1968 Insecticide Act India ensure availability of quality, safe and efficacious
pesticides to the farming community
1969 4th five year plan Legislative process was initiated for prevention of water
courses
1969 National environmental protection act U.S.A mandating all federal agencies and departments to
consider and assess the environmental effects of
proposals for legislation and other major projects.
1970 Establishment of the National Committee of
Environmental planning and co-ordination.
India The NCEPC functioned as an apex advisory body in all
matters relating to environmental protection and
improvement. However due to bureaucratic problems, that
NCEPC faced in coordination with the Department of
Science and Technology, it was replaced by a National
Committee on Environmental Planning (NCEP) with
almost the same functions
1970 the German green party Germany
1970 The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board the first state pollution control board in India to begin
operating
1970 The Radiological protection Act U.K. the purpose of disseminating information about the
protection of mankind from radiation hazards
1971 Radiation Protection Rules India
1971 The Tamilnadu Town and Country Planning
Act
India the first Master Plan did not come until the Chennai
metropolitan development authority was set up in 1971,
although the Act was of 1920
Rohit Nadkarni
1972 Stockholm Conference on Environment (the
Magna carta on human environment)
International Cautioned that the natural resources of the earth,
including air, water, land, flora and fauna and especially
the represented samples of natural eco-systems must be
safeguarded for the benefit of the present and future
generations through careful planning and management,
as appropriate inter generational equity. India a signatory
1972 The Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act India provides for the protection of birds and animals and for all
matters that are connected to it whether it be their habitat
or the waterhole or the forests that sustain them.
1972 The Pesticide Control Act U.S.A control of pesticides for reduction of unreasonable risks to
man and the environment
1973 Chipko Movement India
1974 Toxic substance control act U.S.A
1974 The Water (Prevention and Control of
Pollution) Act, amended 1988
India Passed for restoration and maintenance of
wholesomeness and cleanliness in our national aquatic
resources. To implement the provisions of the act, central
state pollution boards were formed. It vets authority in the
state pollution control board to establish and enforce
effluent standards and the quality of receiving waters. the
act provides for prevention and control of water pollution
and the maintaining or restoring of wholesomeness of
water
1974 The Pollution Control Act U.K. provides various regulatory and control measure to wastes
disposal
1974 The Gujarat Pollution Control Board started India As a requirement of the The Water (Prevention and
Control of Pollution) Act, to implement the provisions of
the act the pollution control board was formed
1975 High powered committee on urban waste India GoI set up a high-level committee for review of problems
of urban waste in India. The committee, in its report made
76 recommendations, covering eight important areas of
waste management
1975 The Andhra Pradesh Urban Area
(development) Act
India
1976 The Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act
U.S.A protect human health and the environment from the
potential hazards of waste disposal, to conserve energy
and natural resources, to reduce the amount of waste
generated, and to ensure that wastes are managed in an
environmentally sound manner. RCRA regulates the
management of solid waste (e.g., garbage), hazardous
waste, and underground storage tanks holding petroleum
products or certain chemicals.
1976 2 articles dealing with environment were
incorporated in the Indian constitution
Article 48-A and article 51-A(g) as a commitment to
Stockholm Conference
1976 Urban Land (Ceiling and Regulation) Act India Dealing with availability of urban land
1976 The Bangalore Development Authority Act India
1976 The Karnataka Improvement Boards Act India
1976 the Gujarat town planning and urban
development act
India Came into force in February 1978
1977 The Toxic Substance Control Act U.S.A the act gave the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
the power to acquire the plausible
information on all new and existing chemical substances.
If it was found that any of these chemical
substances caused an excessive risk to the public or the
environment, the EPA was authorized to control
these unhealthy substances as they saw fit
Rohit Nadkarni
Pollution) Cess Act, amended 1992
India provides for the levy and collection of Cess or fees on
water consuming industries and local authorities. In order
to provide the pollution control boards resources for
equipment and technical personnel and to prompt water
conservation by recycling
1978 US Council for Environmental Quality
(USCEQ)
U.S.A issues regulations for NEPA which apply to USAID and
specific requirements for programmatic assessments.
1979 Three miles island incidents U.S.A nuclear power plants disaster
1979 Silent valley Case- Palghat, Kerala India Hydro-electric proposed in the tropical forest- the high
court of Kerala refused to interfere in the matter and relied
heavily on government position
1979 The Bombay Metropolitan regional
Development Authority Act
India an apex body for planning and co-ordination of
development activities in the Region
1979 The West Bengal Town and Country
(Planning and Development) Act
India
1980 6th five year plan India Environment improvement of slum.
1980 Department of Environment (DOE) India DOE performed an oversight role for the central
government. DOE did environmental appraisals of
development projects, monitored air and water quality,
established an environmental information system,
promoted research, and coordinated activities between
federal, state and local governments
1980 Forest (Conservation) Act India Prohibits state government from allotting any forestland or
any portion thereof for any non-forest purpose without
approval from central government
1980 The tiwari committee India To suggests the administrative and legislative measures
that ought to be taken for the protection of the
environment. Five suggestions- 1) land and water
management 2) Natural living resource 3) Environmental
pollution and E.I.A 4) Human settlements 5)
Environmental education and awareness
1981 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution)
Act, amended 1987
India It provides for prevention, control and abatement of air
pollution. It entrusts the power of enforcing this act to the
CPCB. It lays down air pollution standards and is
administered by the SPCB.
Rules
India defines the procedures of the meetings of the Boards and
the powers entrusted to them.
1982 The Atomic Energy Act India deals with the radioactive waste
1982 The Nuclear Waste policy Act U.S.A
1984 Bhopal gas Tragedy India
1985 Bhopal gas disaster Act India Led to Passing of Environment Protection Act.
1985 Ministry of Environment and Forest of Govt.
of India
India defines the procedures of the meetings of the Boards and
the powers entrusted to them.
1985 National Capital Region Planning Board Act India NCR of Delhi -divided into 15 zones
1985 7th five year plan India Comprehensive plan for urban development
1985 workshop on physical inputs to planning India Organized by the town and country planning organization
+ IIRS,dehradun
1986 The Environment (Protection) Act, amended
1991
India The umbrella legislation. This is applicable to entire
country and overrules other legislation, including local
laws, which empowered the central government to take all
necessary measures to protect and improve the
environment. Obligation under the Stockholm declaration
1986 The Environment (Protection) Rules India lay down procedures for setting standards of emission or
discharge of environmental pollutants.
Rohit Nadkarni
1986 Chernobyl (USSR) Atomic reactor USSR
Amendment Act
India empowers the central and state pollution control boards to
meet with grave emergencies of air pollution
1988 The central motor vehicles Act. India introduced nation-wide emissions levels for both petrol
and diesel driven vehicles.
1989 the Brundtland commission report- our
common future
International the world commission on environment and development -
suggested 22 legal principal for environmental protection
and sustainable development.
1989 Under EPA, government mandated the
Hazardous waste (Management and
handling) rules
India Is to control the generation, collection, treatment, import,
storage, and handling of hazardous waste.
1989 The Manufacture, Storage, and Import of
Hazardous Rules
define the terms used in this context, and sets up an
authority to inspect, once a year, the industrial activity
connected with hazardous chemicals and isolated storage
facilities. It also mandated the manufacture , storage and
import of hazardous chemicals rules.
1990 Earth day International Described as the largest organized demonstration in
human history
1990 Environmental appraisal of these
development plans originated in UK
Uk The European Economic Community issues the first
proposal for a Directive on the Environmental Assessment
of Policies, Plans and Programmes
1990 New policy framework and strategy have
been spelt out by world bank to redefine the
urban challenge
International Reversing the deterioration of the urban environment.
1990 National waste management council was
constituted
India One of the NWMC objectives was municipal solid waste
management. The council is engaged at present in a
survey of 22 municipalities to estimate the quantity of
recyclable waste and its fate during waste collection,
transportation and disposal.
1991 The UNECE Convention on EIA TransboundaryContext promotes the applicationof EA for
policies, plans and programmes
1991 The Public Liability Insurance Act and Rules
and Amendment,1992
India was drawn up to provide for public liability insurance for
the purpose of providing immediate relief to the persons
affected by accident while handling any hazardous
substance.
1991 Policy appraisal Uk Publication of policy appraisal and the environment
1991 Coastal regulation Zone Notification India Declaration of Coastal Stretches as Coastal Regulation
Zone (CRZ) amended 3/10/2001- puts regulations on
various activities, including construction, are regulated. It
gives some protection to the backwaters and estuaries.
1991 the ministry of environment and forests
issued guidelines for management and
handling of hazardous waste
India
1992 Network of air quality monitoring station
across the country approved
India
1992 8th five year plan India the conventional city plans should be modified to
incorporate measures required to restore healthy urban
environment
1992 Development plans and regional guidance
(DOE, 1992)
Uk the beginning of EA of local authority development plan in
the UK.
1992 the Rio de Janeiro "Earth Summit" International Declared that human beings are entitled to a healthy and
productive life of harmony with nature.
Rohit Nadkarni
1992 the Constitution of 73rd and 74th
amendment Act
India A three-tier system of local governance, through
Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in rural areas and
through Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in urban areas was
established. State legislatures were empowered to entrust
local bodies with necessary power and authority to enable
them to function as institutions of local self-government
1992 the National Conservation Strategy and
Policy Statement on Environment and
Development,
India laying down the guidelines that will help to weave
environmental considerations into the fabric of our
national life and of our development process. It is an
expression of our commitment for reorienting policies and
action in unison with the environmental perspective.
1993 Environmental appraisal of development
plans: a good practice guide.
Uk (DOE, 1993)
1993 the national waste management council
constituted the national plastic waste
management task force.
India
1994 Environmental Impact Assessment India Restrictions & Prohibitions on the Expansion &
Modernization of any activity or new projects unless
Environmental Clearance has been accorded, amended
2001
1994 The National Housing Policy India Formulated to implement the recommendations of
Agenda 21 for developingsustainable human settlements.
Main objective was providing access to adequate shelter
for all.
1995 The UNDP introduces the environmental
overview as a planning tool
International
1995 National Environment Tribunal Act India This has been created to award compensation for
damages to persons, property and the environment
arising from any activity involving hazardous substance
1995 Another high powered committee on urban
waste
India The Ministry of Environment and Forests and the Central
Pollution Control Board organized a meeting with
municipal authorities and other concerned ministers in
March 1995 to evolve a strategy for the management of
municipal solid wastes
1995 CPCB established an Environmental
Planning Cell and introduced an
environmental (land use) planning
programme known as Zoning Atlas for
Siting of Industries
India for identifying sites/zones for industries based on
environmental considerations
1996 Govt. published guidelines for safe road
transportation of hazardous waste
India
1996 The Chemical Accidents (Emergency
Planning, Preparedness and Response)
Rules
India To deal with major chemical accidents and to provide
expert guidance for handling major chemical accidents.
1997 The Council of the European Union adopts a
proposal for a Council Directive on the
assessment of the effects of certain plans
and programmes on the environment
1997 National environment Appellate Authority Act India Address appeals with respect to restrictions of areas in
which classes of industries etc. are carried out or
prescribed subject to certain safeguards under the EPA.
The objective is to bring in transparency and
accountability and to ensure the smooth and Expenditiuos
implementation of developmental schemes and projects.
1997 Central Ground Water Board Authority,
amended 2000
India
Rohit Nadkarni
1998 Bio-Medical waste (Management and
handling) rules were issued
India Is a legal binding on the health care institutions to
streamline the process of proper handling of hospital
waste such as segregation, disposal, collection, and
treatment.
1998 Draft municipal solid waste (management
and handling) rules were issued
India apply to every municipal authority responsible for the
collection, segregation, storage, transportation,
processing, and disposal of municipal solid wastes
1998 Constitution of National Coastal Zone
Management Authority
India
1998 the recommendations of the national plastic
waste management task force, set up by the
national waste management council
India
1999 The Environment (Siting for Industrial
Projects) Rules, 1999
India lay down detailed provisions relating to areas to be
avoidedfor siting of industries, precautionary measures to
be taken for site selecting as also the aspects of
environmental protection which should have been
incorporated during the implementation of the industrial
development projects
1999 Final recycled plastic manufacture and usage
rules
India
1999 The Urban Land ( Ceilling and Regulation )
Repeal Act 1999
India An Act to repeal the Urban Land (Ceiling and Regulation )
Act 1976.
2000 The Biodiversity Bill India with an aim to protect and conserve biodiversity and
sustainable use of its components the biodiversity. Bill is
being placed in parliament.
2000 Hazardous wastes (management and
handling) rules
India The rules lay down the procedure for waste collection,
segregation, storage, transportation, processing, and
disposal
2000 Final Municipal solid waste (management
and handling) rules
India Declares that every municipal authority shall be
responsible for the implementation of the rules and for
any infrastructure fro collection, storage, segregation,
transportation, processing and disposal of Municipal solid
waste
2000 Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control)
Rules
India Rules lay down such terms and conditions as are
necessary to reduce noise pollution
2000 The Ozone Depleting Substances
(Regulation and Control) Rules
India have been laid down for the regulation of production and
consumption of ozone depleting substances
2001 The Batteries (Management and Handling)
Rules
India These rules shall apply to every manufacturer, importer,
re-conditioner, assembler, dealer, auctioneer, consumer,
and bulk consumer involved in the manufacture,
processing, sale, purchase, and use of batteries or
components so as to regulate and ensure the
environmentally safe disposal of used batteries
2001 The UNECE issues a draft protocol on
Strategic Environmental Assessment
applying to policies, plans and programmes
International
2001 Council of the European Union adopts the
Council Directive 2001/42/CE on 27 June on
the assessment of the effects of certain
plans and programmes on the environment
European union
2002 Coastal Zone Management Authorities
formed
India
2002 The Noise Pollution (Regulation and
Control) (Amendment) Rules
India Rules lay down such terms and conditions as are
necessary to reduce noise pollution, permit use of loud
speakers or public address systems during night hours
(between 10:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight) on or during any
cultural or religious festive occasion
Rohit Nadkarni
2002 The Wild Life (Protection) Amendment Act India An Act to provide for the protection of wild animals, birds
and plants and for matters connected therewith or
ancillary or incidental thereto with a view to ensuring the
ecological and environmental security of the country
2002 The National Water Policy India
2002 The Biological Diversity Act India is an act to provide for the conservation of biological
diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and
equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the use of
biological resources and knowledge associated with it

2003 Environmental impact directive article 3 of
European directive
European union Implemented by 25 Jan 2005
2003 Hazardous Wastes (Management and
Handling) Amendment Rules
India Clarification on the definition of Hazardous
Wastes.
2003 Bio-Medical Waste (Management and
Handling) (Amendment) Rules
India legal binding on the health care institutions to streamline
the process of proper handling of hospital waste such as
segregation, disposal, collection, and treatment
2003 Constitution of the National Board for Wild
Life
India The Central Government shall, within three months from
the date of commencement of the Wild Life (Protection)
Amendment Act, 2002, constitute the National Board for
Wild Life
2003 Forest (Conservation) Rules, 2003 India super session of the Forest (Conservation) Rules, 1981
Pollution) Cess (Amendment) Act.
India provides for the levy and collection of cess or fees on
water consuming industries and local authorities
2003 The Gujarat State Disaster Management Act India to provide for effective management of disaster, for
mitigation of effects of disaster, for administering,
facilitating, coordinating and
monitoring emergency relief during and after occurrence
of disasters
2005 EIA draft notification for projects India Revised Draft notification
2005 National Urban Housing and Habitat Policy, India Continuation of the national housing policy with objective
to promote sustainable development of habitat in the
country, with a view to ensure equitable supply of land,
shelter and services at affordable prices
Rohit Nadkarni

Rohit nadkarni
School of Planning, CEPT

115
Appendix-B
Appendix - B
THE CONSTITUTION OF INDIA
PART IXA
THE MUNICIPALITIES
243W. Powers, authority and responsibilities of Municipalities, etc.Subj ect to
the provi si ons of thi s Consti tuti on, the Legi sl ature of a State may, by l aw, endow
(a) the Muni ci pal i ti es wi th such powers and authori ty as may be necessary to
enabl e them to functi on as i nsti tuti ons of sel f-government and such l aw may contai n
provi si ons for the devol uti on of powers and responsi bi l i ti es upon Muni ci pal i ti es,
subj ect to such condi ti ons as may be speci fi ed therei n, wi th respect to
(i ) the preparati on of pl ans for economi c devel opment and soci al j usti ce;
(i i ) the performance of functi ons and the i mpl ementati on of schemes as may be
entrusted to them i ncl udi ng those i n rel ati on to the matters l i sted i n the Twel fth
Schedul e;
(b) the Commi ttees wi th such powers and authori ty as may be necessary to enable
them to carry out the responsi bi l i ti es conferred upon them i ncl udi ng those i n rel ati on
to the matters l i sted i n the Twel fth Schedul e.
243ZD. Committee for district planning.(1) There shal l be consti tuted i n every
State at the di stri ct l evel a Di stri ct Pl anni ng Commi ttee to consol i date the pl ans
prepared by the Panchayats and the Muni ci pal i ti es i n the di stri ct and to prepare a draft
devel opment pl an for the di stri ct as a whol e.
(2) The Legi sl ature of a State may, by l aw, make provi si on wi th respect to
(a) the composi ti on of the Di stri ct Pl anni ng Commi ttees;
(b) the manner i n whi ch the seats i n such Commi ttees shal l be fi l l ed:
Provi ded that not l ess than four-fi fths of the total number of members of such
Commi ttee shal l be el ected by, and from amongst, the el ected members of the
Panchayat at the di stri ct l evel and of the Muni ci pal i ti es i n the di stri ct i n proporti on to
the rati o between the popul ati on of the rural areas and of the urban areas i n the
di stri ct;
(c) the functi ons rel ati ng to di stri ct pl anni ng whi ch may be assi gned to such
Commi ttees;
(d) the manner i n whi ch the Chairpersons of such Commi ttees shal l be chosen.
(3) Every Di stri ct Pl anni ng Commi ttee shall , i n prepari ng the draft devel opment
pl an,
(a) have regard to
(i ) matters of common i nterest between the Panchayats and the Muni ci pal i ti es
i ncl udi ng spati al pl anni ng, shari ng of water and other physi cal and natural
resources, the i ntegrated devel opment of i nfrastructure and envi ronmental
conservati on;
(i i ) the extent and type of avai l abl e resources whether fi nanci al or otherwi se;


Rohit nadkarni
School of Planning, CEPT

116
Appendix-B
(b) consul t such i nsti tuti ons and organi sati ons as the Governor may, by order,
speci fy.
(4) The Chai rperson of every Di stri ct Pl anni ng Commi ttee shal l forward the
devel opment pl an, as recommended by such Commi ttee, to the Government of the
State.
243ZE. Committee for Metropolitan planning.(1) There shal l be consti tuted i n
every Metropol i tan area a Metropol i tan Pl anni ng Commi ttee to prepare a draft
devel opment pl an for the Metropol i tan area as a whol e.
(2) The Legi sl ature of a State may, by l aw, make provi si on wi th respect to
(a) the composi ti on of the Metropol i tan Pl anni ng Commi ttees;
(b) the manner i n whi ch the seats i n such Commi ttees shal l be fi l l ed:
Provi ded that not l ess than two-thi rds of the members of such Commi ttee shal l be
el ected by, and from amongst, the el ected members of the Muni ci pal iti es and
Chai rpersons of the Panchayats i n the Metropol i tan area i n proporti on to the rati o
between the popul ati on of the Muni ci pal i ti es and of the Panchayats i n that area;
(c) the representati on i n such Commi ttees of the Government of Indi a and the
Government of the State and of such organi sati ons and Insti tuti ons as may be
deemed necessary for carryi ng out the functi ons assi gned to such Commi ttees;
(d) the functi ons rel ati ng to pl anni ng and coordi nati on for the Metropol i tan area
whi ch may be assi gned to such Commi ttees;
(e) the manner i n whi ch the Chairpersons of such Commi ttees shal l be chosen.
(3) Every Metropol i tan Pl anni ng Commi ttee shal l , i n prepari ng the draft devel opment
pl an,
(a) have regard to
(i ) the pl ans prepared by the Muni ci pal i ti es and the Panchayats i n the
Metropol i tan area;
(i i ) matters of common i nterest between the Muni ci pal i ti es and the Panchayats,
i ncl udi ng co-ordi nated spati al pl anni ng of the area, shari ng of water and other
physi cal and natural resources, the i ntegrated devel opment of i nfrastructure and
envi ronmental conservati on;
(i i i ) the overal l obj ecti ves and pri ori ti es set by the Government of Indi a and the
Government of the State;
(i v) the extent and nature of i nvestments l i kel y to be made i n the Metropol i tan
area by agenci es of the Government of Indi a and of the Government of the State
and other avai l abl e resources whether fi nanci al or otherwi se;
(b) consul t such i nsti tuti ons and organi sati ons as the Governor may, by order,
speci fy.
(4) The Chai rperson of every Metropol i tan Pl anni ng Commi ttee shal l forward the
devel opment pl an, as recommended by such Commi ttee, to the Government of the
State.
Development Plan and Environment : A Case of Ahmedabad
Discription London Remarks
Vision
Mayor's and citizens vision

Time Span
20 years
Integration of national
policies/ international
obligations
Issues effecting london
Odjectives considering
enviornment

Open space, london a better living city and gren city
policies to achieve the objectives
Population Growth
Map showing population growth in last decade

Job growth
Map showing job growth in last decade

Population Projection
Range, No., population change over decade.

Natural growth

pattern of growth
migration

pattern of migration
Age group

composition
Employment
Work age population
based on ethinicity
Present employment structure
Sector wise
Projected employment
Sector wise
equilesed income distribution

weekly household income
Opputunity areas and areas
for intensification
Map showing the spatial distribution

Identifying areas for
regeneration

based on poverty, dependency, health, education
and housing
strategic employment
location

Access to public transport
Map base on PTAL method, framework for

assessing
public transport accessibility
Housing
projected housing

additional housing, annual target to achieved sub-
region/ borough wise
existing shortage (Backlog)

till 2001
Utilizing the existing stock

reduction of vacancy rate
Affordable housing

assuring housing to all section of the population
Disabled people/ old people
and children/ women

Polices for safety, social infrastructure- (health and
Education)
Economy
Demand for office based jobs

Growth and demand for office accomodation
Appendix -C
Content of London Plan 2004
Rohit nadkarni
School of Planning, CEPT 117 Appendix-C
Manufacturing and wholesale
distribution

Demand, jobs, location
Stock required

Indicative distribution in housing types
Emerging growth sectors

policies for Information Communication Technology
infrastructure, e-government and e-business,
Creative industries (Fashion, music etc), Tourism
industry, Environmental industries (green
industries)
Transportation
Closer integration of transport and

spatial development

Proposed major transport schemes and
development oppurtunities.
Land for transport functions

Land requirement
Enhancing international, national and
regional transport links

Airport development, Heliport development, rail
networks
public transport

Increasing the capacity, quality and Indicative
phasing of transport schemes
Improving conditions for walking and
cycling

Londons strategic network of promoted walking
routes
Parking strategy and standards

Parking Standards, Transport Assessments and
Public Transport
Accessibility Levels (Parking for disabled people,
cycle parking and Motor cycle parking)
freight movements and the distribution
of goods
and services
Commercial, tourism, sports

and leisure

Londons network of town centres

Locations for retail and leisure

Cultural Areas

International, national and regional
sports facilities

Tourism

Demand for hotels, spatial distribution of tourist
places.
open space

Londons strategic open space network, open space
hierachy,
Sites of Importance for nature
conservation in London

biodiversity, habitats and species
Enviornment
Planning for waste

Waste strategic policy and targets, Municipal Waste
Management Strategy, Waste Strategy 2000,
Spatial policies, selection of sites for waste
management
and disposal, waste produced and disposal method,
Planning for minerals

demand, Better use of aggregates, re-use
of construction and demolition waste.
Improving air quality

Stratergies-integration of land use and transport
policy, promoting sustainable design and
construction, air quality assessments at planning
stage, promoting cleaner transport fuels, modelling
of scenarious, monitoring plan
Rohit nadkarni
Improving the use of energy

Promoting Energy efficiency and renewable energy,
zero carbon development, technology and design.
Energy assessment of proposed major
developments
Efficient use of water

demand for Water supplies, Water quality and
stretargies, maximising rainwater harvesting
opportunities, using grey water recycling systems
Reducing noise

spatial Stratergies, trsnsportation stratergies
Tackling climate change

impacts of climate change and stratergies
Contaminated land

Bringing contaminated land into beneficial use
Hazardous substances

stratergies dealing with Hazardous substances
Design principles of london
compact city, Maximising the potential of sites,

Density location and parking, sustainable
environmental friendly design, Built heritage and
views (View Protection Framework and View
Project Blue Ribbon
Network

inter-relationships of all of Londons waterways and
water bodies, map showing the blue network,
Natural resources, forces and human heritage,
Flood plains and flood defence (map fo flood risk
area), Sustainable drainage, Historic environment,
Passenger and tourism uses, Design guidelines and
implementaion
sub-regions
approach to sub-regional
development, Population growth, housing (Spatial
location of housing sites by gross capacity) , and
employment growth, Economic growth, Transport
accessibility and capacity and Planning For Waste
Implemetation
Indicative average annual phasing of

growth in jobs and homes

Region- wise
Phasing of public transport capacity
increases

Region- wise
main stakeholders and their
contribution

Monitoring
London Plan Performance Indicators

Objective wise
Looking beyound 2020
It will need to address issues beyond 2020

Rohit nadkarni
Discription DDP-2021 Remarks
Vision
Time Span
20 years
Population Projection
Range, No.
Natural growth

No., %
migration

In/Out migration
Age group

Elderly and children population
Projection of Work force
% and No.
Sector wise in NCTD

for NCTD
Holding Capacity of Polulation
Zone wise
Facilities/Aminities
Based on hierachy of urban development-

Guidelines
Housing
Existing housing stock

According to Census
Backlog

Till 2001
Stock required

Indicative distribution in housing types
Planning and Building guidelines for
Unathorised colonies

Infrastructure (physical and social), Circulation,
control for buildings
Housing for urban poor

Atleast 10% reservation in new development
(EWS)
Infrastructure requirement for residential
neighbourhood
Education, Shopping, Other Community

facilities, recreational, utilities, transportation.
rainwater harvesting

intregrated with storm water drainage plan
natural drainage
not to be disturbed
dual pipe system of recycled water
recommended in new areas and redevelopment

schemes
use of non-conventional sources of energy
recommended for public areas

decentralized sewerage treatment plant

provision while formulating layout plan
Trade and Commerce
roof top harvesting system

to be incorporated in the proposal
separate dry and wet dustbins

arrangements for solid waste disposal

preliminary effluent treatment

energy audits

For scantioning building plan
Industry
No. of industries

Economic survey of delhi
No. of employment

Economic survey of delhi
Classification of Industries

Industries permitted in different zones, Base for
classification
Industrial Use zone guidelines/
development controls

guidelines include Envi. Issues like preservation
of water bodies, provision of green buffer,
rainwater harvesting, provision of CETP's, solid
waste treatment plant, disaster planning
Appendix -D
Content of Delhi Master Plan 2021
Rohit nadkarni
School of Planning, CEPT 120 Appendix- D
Environment
Ground water Assessment

present situation in million cubic meters
Source of water

Source of pollution
Annual rainfall

In mm
Rainwater harvesting potential

In billion litres
Air

Source of pollution, stress on public
transportation poilicy
Noise

permissible limits, Noise pollution (level) rules
2000
landscaping for noise
Green buffer, mounds, etc

Natural features

River Yamuna, aravali ridge
Norm for recreation and Green asrea

city park, district park, community park.
Conservation of Built Heritage
Heritage zones

delinaition of area
Archaeological park

Transportation
Types of mode

Bus, Bycycle, Rail, Air, Cycle-rikshaw etc
Model split projection
Public and private

Goods traffic

at the outer cordons
Social Infrastructure
Health

Planning norms, Standards
Education

Sport Facilities

Communication

Security- police

Safety
Fire, Disaster Management, planning norms/

standards
Physical Infrastructure
Availibilty / Projected Requirement
Water, Sewerage, Power and Solid waste

Proposal / stratergies

Water, Sewerage, Power (Zero-fossil
Development) and Solid waste
Landuse Plan
Policies, zonal development plan

Development code
Land use zones, Location of zones, permission

for use of primisses in the zone, building
controls
Plan review and monitoring
Monitoring framework, monitoring unit.

Rohit nadkarni
School of Planning, CEPT 121 Appendix- D

Development Plan and Environment: A Case of Ahmedabad. Master of Planning Dissertation by - Rohit Nadkarni

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30

Mayor's and citizens vision

Issues effecting london

Map showing population growth in last decade

Map showing job growth in last decade

Range, No., population change over decade.

Work age population

Map showing the spatial distribution

Map base on PTAL method, framework for

Demand for office based jobs

Closer integration of transport and

Commercial, tourism, sports

Planning for waste

compact city, Maximising the potential of sites,

Indicative average annual phasing of

London Plan Performance Indicators

It will need to address issues beyond 2020

Based on hierachy of urban development-

Existing housing stock

Education, Shopping, Other Community

recommended in new areas and redevelopment

recommended for public areas

roof top harvesting system

to be incorporated in the proposal

Ground water Assessment

Green buffer, mounds, etc

Public and private

Fire, Disaster Management, planning norms/

Availibilty / Projected Requirement

Water, Sewerage, Power and Solid waste

Policies, zonal development plan

Land use zones, Location of zones, permission

Monitoring framework, monitoring unit.

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