ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Urban Growth, Land Fragmentation, and Community Livelihoods in the Varanasi Rural-Urban Interface

ABSTRACT It can be seen that, over the last few decades, significant socio-spatial changes are observed in the rural-urban fringe of Varanasi, reflecting pressure from rapid urbanization invading traditionally rural spaces. Understanding these dynamics would therefore be crucial for sustainable development, especially in the case of Varanasi's future as a Smart City. According to the 2011 Indian Census, Varanasi had 1.2 million urban residents, with population growth in the rural-urban periphery rising by over 25% between 2001 and 2011, mainly driven by rural migration and urban sprawl. This paper examines the patterns of land use, infrastructure development, and demographic change within the rural-urban interface of Varanasi, focusing on challenges of resource allocation, displacement, and environmental degradation while focusing on opportunities for improved infrastructure and economic growth. It therefore requires strategic management of the growth of the Varanasi rural-urban fringe to protect the livelihoods, ecosystems, and cultural landscapes of rural communities. Sustainable development of Varanasi's edge would need integrated urban-rural planning and targeted policy interventions for inclusive growth for the city and the peri-urban population. Keywords: Smart City, Urbanization, Rural-Urban Fringe, Sustainable Development