27
made collection, compilation and interpretation
of geo-spatial data in real time possible. On the
other hand, quantum jumps in Information
Technology and use of social media calls for the
use of such real time geo-spatial data for problem
solving and decision making.
Around the same time, the legal regime
pertaining to development planning has
undergone drastic changes with the 73rd & 74th
Constitutional Amendment Acts in 1992 and the
subsequent State legislations for Municipalities
and Panchayaths. The new legal regime focuses
on public participation in local self government
and makes development planning exclusive
prerogative of the Local Self Government. This
has resulted in changes in the way the Town
& Country Planning Department functions in
the State and has culminated in Kerala Town &
Country Planning Act, 2016 in short.
What all these changes mean to the Town &
Country Planning Department and the Town
Planning fraternity in the State? First of all,
the town planning schemes (master plans and
DTP Schemes) as we know now may not have
much relevance in the future being too rigid
and inelastic. When changes are taking place in
the economy, technology and hence business
models in very short span of time, these plans
which require years together for making as well
as revising is not likely to succeed as model
prescriptions for spatial development. Besides,
with the multitude of issues, especially with
concern for social inclusion, one stop solutions
for development issues are hard to come by.
A thorough process for assimilating various
opinions and view points through consistent and
persuading discussions has become essential. So,
the planning process has got to be a continuous
dialogue between various stakeholders and one
that ensures give and take attitude creating win-
win situations.
Evolution of a new model has become
imperative in this context. This model essentially
has to shed the rigidity in the system to be
effective in the present day context. Which
means what we need would be a set of fluid plans
which goes on evolving as being implemented
within a broad framework. Ideas like tactical
urbanism have lot to do in such a model and
are likely to get public support and involvement