You have got Mumbai, a bustling
megacity on one hand, and Tokyo, one of the most vibrant megalopolises on the
other. At first glance, they seem as different as night and day. What's the
common thread, you ask, beyond the obvious crowds and rapid development?
Urban design
and planning serve as the creative tools that sculpt our cityscapes. During
this dynamic session, expert architects and designers will dive deep into the
interplay of art, culture, and history in crafting inclusive urban
environments. Together, they will uncover the strategies for harnessing Tokyo’s
visionary urban planning and leveraging cross-cultural collaborations to craft
Mumbai’s sustainable growth.
Join us as
we foster innovative thinking through an engaging presentation followed by an
inspiring panel discussion explore the profound influence of public engagement
in creating cities that are not just spaces but living works of art.
Urban Planning
Urban planning is defined as the design and regulation of the uses of space that focus on the physical form, economic functions, and social impacts of the urban environment and on the location of different activities within it. Urban planning encompasses the development of open lands, often referred to as greenfield sites, as well as the modernization of existing city areas. Currently, almost 55% of the global population lives in urban areas. Hence, we are witnessing a rise in the designing and implementation of future cityscape projects that cater to aspects like environmental sustainability, affordability, equity, and public health as part of smart cities and urban planning.
Role of
Community Engagement in Urban Planning
Community is fundamental to most urban planning projects. Community engagement involves an array of participatory processes where the public is involved in urban planning. It aims to achieve a fair-handed and meaningful participation and contribution of the residents and other stakeholders in the growth and expansion of their living environments. The community engagement process allows the citizens to share their ideas and feedback on the multiple planning projects in the initial stage of development, in the budget-related decisions, or in any other processes involved. This allows the contribution and incorporation of local knowledge and experience of the community to develop more sustainable surroundings to live in.
Significance of
Creative and Cultural Hubs in Cities
The arts and cultural sectors form the most optimistic pathway to revive a fresh approach in cities and neighborhoods. A city without a vibrant and diverse cultural life holds no appeal in modern times. With global cities housing the world’s half the population, they are the principal locations where the formation of new strategies, policies, and initiatives aimed at making culture and creative sectors take place keeping in mind sustainable development and urban regeneration while ensuring growth, innovation, and promotion of harmony in the community, their well-being and fostering intercultural dialogue.
Tokyo’s
Once-in-a-Century Urban Development Plan
Tokyo is currently undergoing large-scale redevelopment plans in Shibuya. Shibuya has been a leading setter of trends and is one of the most sought-after work locations in the metropolis and home to many IT companies. These plans include the construction of high-rise buildings, new transport links, and disaster preparedness. The upliftment plan of Tokyo has taken into account various aspects including geological forecasts, timetable reconstruction, and the capital’s growing pockets. The redevelopment plan aims to accommodate new urban changes of people post-COVID-19 with technological advancements for the next generation and make Shibuya a magnet for new lifestyles, businesses, and industries.