Applicability of Nature-Based Solution Through Green Infrastructure Approach to Enhance Green Cover in Urban Transition Scenario

Abstract

Urban Green Spaces (UGSs) are relatively understudied in Indian context and needs immediate attention under severe pressure of destruction and degradation due to rapid urbanization. To protect and optimize the benefits received with increasing urbanization, it is utmost to understand potential role and current status of UGSs to achieve overall urban sustainability. Currently, UGS planning lacks holistic framework to create, maintain and enhance the UGSs, so the chapter explores possibility of applying NbS (Nature-based Solution) framework with a Green Infrastructure (GI) approach in emerging urban centres of India and the associated ground level challenges. The qualitative data was collected through 48 face to face key informant interviews (KII) in Nagpur city, to gain insights into affected greens in urban transition and the driver of change. Overall, 63% interviewee agreed with urban transition scenario, while water bodies, agriculture land and tree lined roads being the most effected UGSs. Amongst the key drivers, unplanned and haphazard development and overarching infrastructure demand are identified by KII. In terms of familiarity with NbS and GI concept, the awareness is poor, but overall discussion with informant indicated relevance of NbS concepts to enhance the UGSs of the city. This is further accentuated by review of different cases identifying the benefits of NbS to promote strategic planning through co-creation of knowledge with stakeholders and local citizens. Lastly, the applicability of NbS and GI concept is discussed as a potential way forward to guide UGS planning which looks at greens holistically with tailored approach for GI expansion.