Cities for Every Generation

Cities are more than physical environments; they shape the health, safety, and well-being of the people who live in them. As rapid urbanization transforms Indian cities, families increasingly face challenges such as inadequate public spaces, unsafe streets, limited accessibility, traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and unequal access to essential services. These issues particularly affect children, older adults, caregivers, and persons with disabilities, highlighting the need for urban planning approaches that prioritize families as a fundamental unit of society.

This thesis investigates the role of urban planning in creating family-friendly cities, using Kochi, Kerala, as the primary study area. It examines how planning principles, urban design strategies, mobility networks, public open spaces, housing, community facilities, and social infrastructure influence the quality of life for families. Through literature review, policy analysis, case studies, field observations, and spatial assessment, the research identifies the strengths and limitations of Kochi's existing urban environment.

The study proposes a comprehensive planning framework that integrates safety, inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability, and community well-being into future urban development. It emphasizes walkable neighbourhoods, child-friendly public spaces, universal accessibility, mixed-use development, green infrastructure, and equitable access to services as key components of a family-friendly city.

By combining research with practical planning recommendations, this thesis demonstrates how urban planning can create resilient and people-centered cities that support families across different ages, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds. The findings contribute to the growing discourse on inclusive urban development and provide a framework for integrating family-friendly principles into planning policies and future city-making initiatives.