Author(s) :

Atharv Bhatt.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study examines vertical urbanism—the strategy of building upward rather than outward—as a response to rapid urbanization and land scarcity in India. It compares two mid-sized cities: Bhopal (the “City of Lakes”) and Ahmedabad (a major industrial and cultural hub). A mixed-methods approach was used, combining extensive literature review, analysis of planning documents and satellite data. Key objectives included assessing how vertical development affects land use, housing affordability, environmental quality, and socio-cultural dynamics in each city. Findings indicate that vertical development can substantially increase built-up area and preserve greenfield land. For instance, increasing density can lead to lower service costs, with water and sanitation services in densely populated areas being 30–50% less expensive than in sprawling regions. Incorporating green building features, such as vertical gardens, helps reduce heat-island effects. Without inclusive policies, high-rise buildings may amplify wealth concentration and socio-economic divides. In Bhopal, it is essential to balance vertical expansion with the preservation of lakes, heritage sites, and water resources. In Ahmedabad, which has experienced rapid population growth (from 2.76 million in 1971 to 7.21 million in 2011), vertical development presents a solution for managing density, but it must also prioritize affordable housing and cultural integrity. The report concludes that vertical urbanism, when combined with sustainable design practices (like green roofs and mixed-use zoning) and fair policies, can facilitate India's overall urban transformation. Recommendations focus on how each city can pursue vertical growth while improving infrastructure, safeguarding cultural heritage, and enhancing environmental resilience.

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