Discerning land use transitions in peri-urban areas of India: The relevance of mixed-methods research

By Manisha Jain (Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development) |

The 21st century urbanisation process unfolding under globalisation and neoliberalisation in the global South is characterised by rapid transition of land uses in peri-urban areas, specifically juxtaposition of rural and urban uses, neglect of formal policy and planning, inequality, informal structures (for infrastructure delivery) and environmental degradation. These transformation processes are often linked and shape peri-urban areas. As urban areas expand into peripheral areas, land use transition take place from primarily agricultural or vacant land to residential, commercial, transport and recreational uses. Recent research has established substantial urban expansion at the cost of arable land and surface water, and predicts further similar trend in Asian and African regions. Given the predicted increase in urban population and further increased pressure on natural resources, management of peri-urban spaces (land uses) poses significant challenges for planners. These spaces have become critical sustainability frontiers and present an opportunity for reforming governance structures for framing a sustainable development pathway.

In this speed talk, I argue that the opportunities presented by peri-urban areas cannot be realized by relying on traditional approaches and instruments or through existing institutions. I take the case of census towns in India to explain land use transitions in peri-urban areas. I exemplify the use of mixed-methods research in discerning complexities associated with the peri-urban land use transitions.