The Role of Mangalore's Real Estate in Sustainable Urban Development

Mangalore, a coastal city in Karnataka, India, has seen a tremendous growth in real estate over the past decade. While this growth has brought sheer economic benefits, it has also caused various environmental and social issues. As a result, the role of Mangalore's real estate in sustainable urban development has come under scrutiny.

The city's real estate sector has been driven by growing affluence, increasing disposable income, and rapid urbanization. The demand for housing has led to a surge in construction, particularly in the outskirts of the city. While developers have been able to cater to the growing demand, the sustainability quotient has often been overlooked.

One of the major concerns is resource depletion. The use of excessive amounts of concrete and steel in construction has led to the depletion of natural resources. Furthermore, the destruction of mangroves, wetlands, and water bodies has not only affected the city's ecology but has also disrupted the natural habitat of several species.

Another issue is the lack of green spaces. As the city expands, green cover is lost, giving rise to climate change through increasing temperatures and heat islands. The vulnerability of the city to vector-borne diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya has also increased due to the lack of green spaces.

Moreover, the real estate sector has also given rise to socio-economic disparities. The cost of premium housing and luxury apartments has pushed the lower-income groups to the city's slums, where there is a lack of basic amenities. This has led to a divide between the haves and have-nots, creating social unrest.

In recent years, government and other bodies have taken steps towards sustainability. Initiatives such as the Smart City project, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and the Green India Mission are aimed at mitigating the ill effects of rapid urbanization. These programs focus on the promotion of eco-friendly practices such as rainwater harvesting, waste segregation, and increased green spaces.

The real estate sector has also responded by incorporating sustainable practices into their projects. Developers are now exploring the use of green building materials, rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment and recycling, and the introduction of green spaces. Swacch Mangaluru Abhiyan, an initiative by the city's civic body, has been successful in addressing the issue of waste management by creating awareness among citizens and through scientific disposal methods.

The role of the real estate sector in sustainable urban development goes beyond the incorporation of eco-friendly practices. Stakeholders need to work towards creating affordable housing solutions without compromising on quality. Furthermore, the creation of sustainable livelihoods and the inclusion of the informal sector in decision-making processes would help promote social equity.

In conclusion, Mangalore's real estate sector has played a significant role in the city's rapid development. However, it has come at a cost to the environment and society. With an increase in awareness and initiatives promoting sustainability, the sector has the potential to contribute to the city's growth while also being environmentally conscious and socially inclusive.