Policy Recommendations to Key Issues in Kerala’s Urbanisation

Urban spaces are essential elements of contemporary cities. As urban populations continue to grow, projections indicate a significant increase in the demand for urban spaces in the coming years. As per the UN projections, over two-thirds of the global population is expected to reside in urban areas by 2050, highlighting the pressing need for well-designed, accessible and environmentally safe urban spaces to accommodate the demographic shift.

Residing on the southern tip of India, the state of Kerala, with a population of more than 3 crore (2011 census), is a highly urbanised state. According to the findings of the “State of the Cities India (2021)” report, comprising 25 indicators assessing the India states on urban parameters, Kerala is the second most urbanised state in India among the seventeen general states. Kerala ranks highest in urbanisation and productivity; however, the state faces challenges in inclusion and environmental safety.

To gain an understanding of why Kerala falls behind in inclusive and environmentally safer cities, a study was undertaken in close collaboration with urban local governments and communities. CPPR’s Urban Fellows studied the challenges confronted by local urban governments in Kerala by conducting in-depth observational studies, engaging in dialogues, and providing region-specific recommendations. The conclusions drawn in the State of Cities India report were reiterated in the studies undertaken.

This policy brief was prepared by analysing the research reports and field studies undertaken by Fellows of the CPPR-FNF Urban Fellowship 2023 to better understand the urban landscape of Kerala.

Policy Brief