Smaller cities and towns across India are undergoing rapid transitions in land use and patterns of urbanisation, compounded by large scale infrastructure projects that challenge the very identity of a place. Such interventions are also valuable opportunities for course correction in the region’s growth trajectory. 

The Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) envisaged to better connect the twin cities of Hubli and Dharwad opened several opportunities for intervention in resource management of the region. Quite like most other urban centres, provision of fresh water, management of waste water and solid waste are pressing problems in the twin city region. 

Rather than follow the conventional route of centralised, piped solutions, the proposal involved examining the potential of natural systems within the urban fabric to service the city.

The conception of green infrastructure with specific reference to the adjoining urban fabric revealed several opportunities for addressing water and waste management issues. The ecosystem services potential offered by the natural systems

including seasonal and perennial streams, lakes and ponds, open spaces, etc., were calibrated with pilot proposals to demonstrate their value to the city region and their practical application in specific site contexts.

The lead consultant for the project was IBI on behalf of the Department of Urban land Transport, Government of Karnataka.