Understanding the macro-micro dynamics of urban densification: A case study of different sized Indian cities

Abstract Indian cities face unplanned and rapid urbanization, yet limited studies investigate their urban growth dynamics systematically. Urban land density (ULD) analysis is crucial for developing countries worldwide, especially for populous countries like India. To understand the complexities of urban structure and its expansion, we propose a framework for quantifying urban densification by integrating its macro structure and micro dynamics. Five Indian cities are chosen as study areas based on economic categorization and city size. The macro-structure analysis is performed through a non-linear fitting of concentric density zones to derive an urban land density function (ULDF). The parameters of ULDF define the compactness and dispersion of urban expansion. The micro-urban form analysis is carried out by examining the spatial configuration of ULD. The study reveals that Tier-I city suffered from high compact urban growth. In contrast, Tier-II city with the elevated topography is found to have the highest urban land density at the city center in all studied years compared to the remaining chosen cities. The study also reveals that Tier-II city with plane topography has shown a significant increase in urban land density at boundaries. The rest of the chosen cities of Tier-III have contributed more toward dispersive growth. The spatial configuration of urban densities indicates that Tier-I and Tier-II cities have a close relationship in urban patches and class dynamics. Overall results from macro structure analysis depict that Tier-I and Tier-II cities are interrelated and consistent w.r.t. the ULDF, whereas, Tier-III city and town are explainable inconsistent. This inconsistency can be explained through a micro-urban form analysis. The study reveals the varied characteristics of developing cities, which would help policymakers and urban planners enhance the quality of urbanization and promote sustainable development.