Publications

The Department of Urban and Regional Planning at SPA Bhopal actively contributes to academic and professional discourse through a wide range of publications. Faculty and researchers regularly publish in reputed national and international journals, conference proceedings, and edited volumes, covering themes such as urban governance, climate-resilient planning, sustainable development, and public policy. These publications reflect the department’s commitment to advancing knowledge and influencing practice in urban and regional planning.

Pandemic Spread in Metropolitan Cities of India—Spatial Planning Factors

Co-authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi and published in Urban and Transit Planning. Advances in Science, Technology & Innovation. Springer, 2022; this paper titled ‘Pandemic Spread in Metropolitan Cities of India—Spatial Planning Factors’ investigates the influence of urban spatial characteristics on the transmission of COVID-19 across India's major metropolitan cities. The study examines how urban form, population distribution, land-use patterns, accessibility, housing conditions, and the spatial organization of essential services contribute to the spread of infectious diseases in dense urban environments. By integrating geospatial analysis, spatial planning indicators, and pandemic-related data, the research identifies the planning factors that increase urban vulnerability while highlighting the role of well-planned, equitable, and resilient urban systems in mitigating disease transmission. The findings demonstrate the importance of embedding public health considerations into urban and regional planning, advocating evidence-based spatial strategies that strengthen pandemic preparedness, improve urban resilience, and support the development of healthier and more sustainable metropolitan regions.

SDG Monitoring through Earth Observation

Led by Prof. Natraj Kranthi, this GIZ-funded research project, ‘SDG Monitoring through Earth Observation’, was carried out for the Kochi Municipal Corporation (KMC), Kerala, India, with the objective of strengthening SDG monitoring through the application of open geospatial data and Earth observation technologies. As part of the project, a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based web portal was developed to enable spatial visualization, analysis, and dissemination of SDG indicators for informed decision-making.

Security of Tenure of Urban Poor Settlements: Trends and Experiences

Authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi and published in Urban India, this paper titled ‘Security of Tenure of Urban Poor Settlements: Trends and Experiences’ examines the evolving concept of tenure security in urban informal settlements and highlights its critical role in improving the living conditions of the urban poor. The study reviews national and international experiences to demonstrate that security of tenure extends beyond legal land ownership to include social recognition, institutional support, access to basic services, protection from eviction, and residents' confidence in their continued occupation of land. By analysing diverse tenure approaches and policy interventions, the paper identifies the strengths and limitations of conventional land titling programmes while emphasizing the need for flexible, inclusive, and context-specific tenure arrangements. The findings advocate a people-centred approach to tenure security that promotes housing investment, livelihood security, social inclusion, and equitable access to urban services, providing valuable guidance for planners and policymakers in advancing sustainable and inclusive urban development.

Flood Vulnerability Assessment using Geospatial Techniques: Chennai, India

Co-authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi, this paper titled ‘Flood Vulnerability Assessment using Geospatial Techniques: Chennai, India’ presents a comprehensive geospatial framework for assessing flood vulnerability in the Chennai Metropolitan Area following the devastating 2015 floods. The study integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, Digital Elevation Models (DEM), watershed analysis, and satellite-derived indices—including the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI)—to map flood inundation, quantify damage to the built environment and transport infrastructure, and identify vulnerable areas. By combining multi-source satellite imagery with spatial analytical techniques, the research classifies flood-prone zones into different vulnerability levels and provides a scientific basis for disaster risk assessment and emergency planning. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of geospatial technologies in supporting rapid flood damage assessment, enhancing urban resilience, guiding sustainable land-use planning, and strengthening evidence-based disaster management strategies for flood-prone metropolitan regions.

Need for a Shift in Pedagogy for Teaching Fundamentals of Planning Education

Authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi and published in Urban and Regional Planning Education. Springer, 2016; this book chapter titled ‘Need for a Shift in Pedagogy for Teaching Fundamentals of Planning Education’ examines the evolving requirements of planning education in response to rapid urbanization, technological advancements, and the increasing complexity of contemporary cities. The study argues that traditional approaches to teaching planning fundamentals should transition from predominantly theoretical instruction toward experiential, interdisciplinary, and problem-based learning that reflects real-world planning practice. It emphasizes the integration of spatial analysis, field-based learning, collaborative studio pedagogy, digital technologies, and stakeholder engagement to strengthen students' analytical, technical, and decision-making capabilities. By highlighting innovative teaching methodologies and the changing competencies expected of future planners, the paper provides a framework for modernizing planning education to produce professionals who are better equipped to address complex urban challenges and contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban development.

Conceptualizing Perceived Security of Tenure for the Urban Poor

Authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi and published in Urban Sustainable Solutions. Springer, 2026; this book chapter ‘Conceptualizing Perceived Security of Tenure for the Urban Poor’ advances the understanding of tenure security by emphasizing that it should be viewed not only through formal legal ownership (de jure) but also through the lived experiences and perceptions (de facto) of urban poor and low-income residents. Recognizing that perceived security of tenure plays a crucial role in ensuring livelihood security, access to basic urban services, and housing improvements, the study reviews existing concepts and global best practices to identify the factors influencing residents' sense of tenure security. Building on these insights, the author proposes the ‘PST Pyramid of Influence’, a conceptual framework that integrates the multiple social, institutional, economic, and legal dimensions shaping perceived tenure security. The framework provides a structured basis for assessing tenure security beyond property formalization and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals' recognition of perceived land rights, offering valuable guidance for planners and policymakers in promoting inclusive and sustainable urban development.

Transformative Potential of GeoAI for Preparation of Master Plans

Authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi, this article titled ‘Transformative Potential of GeoAI for Preparation of Master Plans’ explores how Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) is revolutionizing the preparation of statutory master plans by integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, machine learning, and big data analytics into urban planning workflows. The article presents a comprehensive GeoAI framework based on three core capabilities—object detection, pattern recognition, and pattern prediction—to streamline key planning activities such as basemap preparation, land-use mapping, spatial analysis, change detection, population projection, and predictive urban modelling. It further highlights the role of GeoAI in enabling automated geospatial analysis, 3D visualization through Digital Twins, and enhanced public participation, thereby improving the accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness of planning processes. Drawing on international examples and practical urban planning applications, the article demonstrates how GeoAI can significantly reduce the time required for master plan preparation while supporting evidence-based decision-making, sustainable urban development, and the creation of more resilient, inclusive, and future-ready cities.

Geospatial Modeling of Urban Development-Induced Landslide Susceptibility in Shimla, India

Co-authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi and published in ITPI journal 2026, this paper titled ‘Geospatial Modeling of Urban Development-Induced Landslide Susceptibility in Shimla, India’ presents a geospatial framework for assessing how rapid urban development influences landslide susceptibility in the fragile Himalayan city of Shimla. The study integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, terrain analysis, and spatial modelling techniques to identify areas where expanding urbanization has increased slope instability and landslide risk. By examining the relationship between land-use changes, topography, geological conditions, and urban growth, the research provides a scientific basis for identifying vulnerable zones and supports risk-informed urban planning. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating geospatial hazard assessment into development planning to improve disaster resilience, guide sustainable land-use decisions, and minimize the adverse impacts of urban expansion in environmentally sensitive hill regions.

The Power of City Information Modelling for Smarter Urban Monitor

Authored by Prof. Natraj Kranthi, this article titled. The article titled ‘The Power of City Information Modelling for Smarter Urban Monitoring’ explores how City Information Modelling (CIM) can transform urban governance through continuous, data-driven monitoring. The article demonstrates the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, Internet of Things (IoT), Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI), and geospatial analytics to create intelligent digitalcity models capable of real-time monitoring and decision-making. It highlights practical applications such as automated detection of planning violations, encroachments, and regulatory compliance monitoring, while advocating the integration of master plans and planning regulations within a unified CIM framework to support sustainable, efficient, and evidence-based urban management.

Sustainable Urbanism - Making Indian Religious Cities Accessible

Led by Dr. Kakoli Saha, this book chapter attempts to assess sustainable urbanism of an Indian religious city from the perspective of physical mobility of a visitor with disability taking Madurai as case study city.

Impact of Plantation on Infectious Diseases

Led by Dr. Kakoli Saha, this research is an attempt to understand the direct and indirect impact of forest degradation on infectious disease outbreaks in a specific context of the Wayanad district in Kerala, India.

Early Detection Model for improving Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance

The research paper is based on BPLAN thesis done by Abhishek Raisinghani (Batch 2020–2024) guided by Dr. Kakoli Saha. The research developed an Early Detection Model for improving Vector-Borne Disease Surveillance in Bhopal city.

Geospatial Technique to make Indian Cities Accessible

Led by Dr. Kakoli Saha, this study explores the potential of geospatial approach has been explored to assess universal accessibility of Indian cities taking Bhopal city, Madhya Pradesh as Geospatial Technique to make Indian Cities Accessible case study city.

Assessing Universal Accessibility using AI/ML technique

Led by Dr. Kakoli Saha, this study focuses on assessing the universal accessibility of the built environment in the disaster-impacted zone using Sentiment Analysis.

Predictive Modeling of UHI in Jaipur city

The research paper is based on B. PLAN thesis done by Aryan Yadav (Batch 2021–2025) guided by Dr. Kakoli Saha. The study integrates GIS, remote sensing, and Random Forest machine learning to analyze historical Urban Heat Island patterns and forecast future heat hotspots in Jaipur city, Rajasthan.

Learning GIS Using Open Source Software

Authored by Dr. Kakoli Saha, the book provides step by step instruction to learn GIS through open-source software like QGIS using data relevant to SE Asia. The book contains both GIS concepts and hands-on tutorials in QGIS. Published by Routledge India, the book has every potential to be considered as text book for a GIS class in disciplines like planning, geology, geography, environmental science, civil engineering etc.

Urban Planning and Environmental Health in India: a Comprehensive Literature Mapping

Led by Pallavi Tiwari, this research explores the interconnections of environmental public health and urban planning in Indian context. It included an in-depth review of the existing literature to develop literature mapping on the intersection of urban planning and environmental health in India. The study reveals an interesting shift in the research domain post COVID-19, while also highlights the underexplored areas. This research is published in Journal of Public Health Policy.

Developing Metro Rail-Based Accessibility in India: Existing Challenges and Prospects

Led by Paulose N. Kuriakose, this study explores the pivotal role of transportation in shaping the socio-economic dynamics of Indian cities. With rapid urbanization intensifying the demand for efficient transit, metro rail emerges as a sustainable solution. However, the mismatch between high infrastructure costs and low ridership raises concerns about its effectiveness. The paper critiques the replication of metro projects without proper feasibility studies and advocates for integrated planning, financing, and governance. It further highlights the need to bridge policy-practice gaps, address stakeholder coordination, and boost ridership to enhance urban quality of life.

Policy-Implementation Dynamics of National Housing Programmes in India – Evidence from Madhya Pradesh

Authored by Dr. Sheuli Mitra and published in the International Journal of Housing Policy (2022), this study examines the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) implementation in Madhya Pradesh. It used interviews with officials from the Directorate of Urban Administration and Development (20-30 estimated) and household surveys in small towns (300-500 households), alongside PMAY data (2015-2020). Focused on four PMAY components—In-Situ Slum Redevelopment, Affordable Housing in Partnership, Beneficiary-Led Construction, and Credit-Linked Subsidy Scheme—it analysed land, financing, and coordination issues in cities like Bhopal and smaller towns, noting Madhya Pradesh’s high sanction rate (over 1 million houses).

Smart Environment Through Smart Tools and Technologies for Urban Green Spaces: Case Study – Chandigarh, India

Published in Smart Environment for Smart Cities (Springer, January 2020) by Dr. Kshma Puntambekar, Kapil Gupta, and co-authors from SPA Bhopal, this study examines the application of GIS, remote sensing, and ICT for managing urban green spaces (UGS) in Chandigarh. Focusing on the city’s greenbelt and parks (~25% of 114 km²), it proposes a smart management framework using satellite imagery and field surveys. The study showcases how smart technologies can support ecological planning in modernist cities like Chandigarh, offering a replicable model for other urbanizing regions.

Geospatial Approach to Enhance Religious Tourism in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Led by Dr. Kakoli Saha, this research applied GIS and remote sensing to map Ujjain’s religious sites, particularly during the Kumbh Mela. The team digitized pilgrimage routes analysed crowd flow (using data from ~1 million attendees), and assessed infrastructure gaps (e.g., sanitation, transport). Outputs included spatial plans for heritage conservation and traffic management.

Estimating Solar PV Potential for Sustainable Energy Planning in Bhopal

With rising electricity demand in Indian cities, rooftop solar PV is emerging as a viable solution. This paper, authored by Kakoli Saha and Nikhil Mandal, combines automated object-oriented image analysis and GIS to assess rooftop solar potential in Bhopal. Using WorldView-2 stereo and multispectral imagery, a residential neighbourhood was analysed, revealing the potential to meet 265% of its daily energy demand via rooftop solar. Expanding this, ~10,000 buildings were mapped across Bhopal using satellite imagery and ground-truthing. The study estimated an average solar insolation of ~5.5 kWh/m²/day and a total citywide potential of 500 MW, accounting for building typology and shading. Despite JNNSM efforts, rooftop PV adoption remains limited, highlighting the need for targeted policy support in tier-II cities like Bhopal.

City profile: Kochi, city region - Planning measures to make Kochi smart and creative

Led by Paulose N. Kuriakose, this paper presents Kochi as a dynamic urban centre, Kerala’s emerging cosmopolitan and commercial capital with a rich historical and cultural legacy. Known for its distinctive lifestyle and diversity, Kochi is among the 100 Indian cities selected for smart city development. With its population projected to reach 2.27 million by 2031, the city faces critical challenges in infrastructure planning and ecosystem management. Beyond the smart city framework, the paper envisions Kochi as a creative city, leveraging its multicultural heritage, architecture, and cuisine to promote knowledge-based economic activities. It calls for strategies to foster education and employment opportunities that can nurture a thriving creative class.

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Department of Urban and Regional Planning, SPA, Neelbad Road, Bhauri, Bhopal - 462030 M.P (India)

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0755-2526800

hodurp@spabhopal.ac.in

SPA Bhopal

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Address- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, SPA, Neelbad Road, Bhauri, Bhopal - 462030 M.P (India)

Ph. no- 0755-2526800

Email- hodurp@spabhopal.ac.in

Health Data for Urban Planning in India: Gaps, Stakeholder Insights, and a Framework for Action

Led by Pallavi Tiwari, this research aimed at exploring institutional and data barriers in the existing health survey ecosystems which make it difficult to use health as an input in mainstream urban planning processes. The study reviewed the existing health data sources and reports to compare the granularity of data, standardization, spatial linkages and usability for planning analysis and decisions. The outcome of the research is the development of an integrated health data management framework intended to support future spatial public health analysis and evidence-based planning across cities. This research is published in Cities and Health.