Cultivating Community: Addressing Social Sustainability in Rapidly Urbanizing Hyderabad City, Pakistan

Abstract

In the modern dialogue of urban planning, social sustainability emerges as a crucial focus, especially in swiftly expanding cities like Hyderabad, Pakistan. Despite its importance, social sustainability is frequently overlooked, particularly in developing regions. This research examines the planning frameworks shaping socially sustainable residential areas in Qasimabad Taluka, Hyderabad City. Once lush farmland, Qasimabad has swiftly transformed into residential sectors. This transition has led to declining living standards and weakened social sustainability metrics. Through meticulous analysis, this study evaluates the community engagement, inclusivity and accessibility, social cohesion and safety, and facilities and amenities factors of social sustainability in the residential neighborhoods of Qasimabad Taluka using field visits and a comprehensive questionnaire survey with a sample size of 307 adopting cluster and quota sampling techniques. Data analysis with SPSS-22, supported by reliability, exploratory factor analysis, and Yeh’s satisfaction index model reveals key elements such as community accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal. The findings reveal deteriorating infrastructure in Qasimabad, emphasizing the necessity for substantial interventions in infrastructure development, public space revitalization, and the cultivation of civic consciousness. Addressing these issues is vital for fostering neighborhoods that are both livable and socially cohesive. By shedding light on these critical needs, urban planners can effectively create sustainable living environments in Qasimabad Taluka.