The Role of Women in Urban Planning and Sustainable City Design

Urban planning and city design have changed over the years because of the increased demand for sustainability, inclusiveness, and resilience. Cities are expanding and facing more environmental problems every day, thus highlighting the increasing demand for sustainable development. Women contribute to developing infrastructure that prioritizes inclusivity, community welfare, and long-term sustainability through their creative ideas. 

Women’s Perspective on Urban Planning:

Urban planning has been mostly dominated by men. In the course of history, these urban planners have become increasingly feminized, changing the city with a feminist approach that is still pivotal in the safety, accessibility, and sustainability of cities. Women planners tend to focus on spaces benefitting all people: women, children, old people, and marginalized groups.

One such important area in which women have successfully taken stride is ensuring safer cities. India's cities long have strived to ensure safety for women, especially in public places and while using public transport. Women urban planners design a safer city by providing better street lighting, pedestrian-friendly zones, and transport systems that consider the user's safety. This safety-first perspective is represented by programs like woman-only coaches on the metro or buses.

Case Study of Sustainable Urban Projects Led by Women:

1. Mira Alfassa - The Auroville Project established by Mira Alfassa in Tamil Nadu, advocates for unity, sustainability, and an environmentally friendly setting. UNESCO acknowledges this project as significant for the future of humanity. The global recognition of the Auroville Project is attributed to its goal of attaining human unity and promoting sustainable living. 

2.Anupama Kundoo - Another name for reshaping the architecture in terms of Sustainability is Anupama Kundoo. She prioritizes sustainability, with a fusion of urban design, and creates a structure that is environment-friendly, and affordable. Her project includes “Wall House” in Auroville, India. This project utilizes handmade bricks, and locally sourced materials to create a low-cost, energy-efficient home tailored to the tropical climate.

Breaking Barriers:

Women have made significant achievements in this field, but still architect field to date remains male-dominated, and many women face challenges, and discrimination when it comes to making decisions. However, these challenges have not stopped Indian women from excelling and leading significant change in the sector.

Anu Mridul, Hafeez Contractor, and Brinda Somaya are a few women who have changed the shape of India's urban landscapes into meaningful forms. Their works essentially show how women create diverse perspectives for city planning in more inclusive and people-centric urban settings.

Conclusion:

Through planning and design for sustainable cities, women are transforming India's landscape. Inclusiveness and active engagement with communities and sustainability, the day-to-day efforts of women lead to economically vibrant, socially equitable, and environmentally resilient cities. With women as pioneers of projects that break barriers and transform the cityscape, India's future shines brighter than ever before it's green and inclusive.