IN-PERSON Barcelona Livable Cities. Section B

Abstract

Developing nations are undergoing rapid urbanisation. India is at the forefront of urban growth, which has precipitated a significant increase in urban crime, posing substantial challenges to urban governance and policing. This paper examines the prevalence of crimes against women in India, focusing on assault, molestation, and harassment data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) spanning 10 years (2012-2022) and its correlation with community participation to create safety and security in urban environments. Gender-based violence in public spaces remains a significant barrier to women’s full participation in urban life, impacting their sense of safety and equality. The analysis reveals that cities with more inclusive, accessible, and well-planned urban spaces report lower rates of gender-based violence. Conversely, areas with limited infrastructure, poor lighting, and restricted visibility tended to exhibit higher rates of assault, molestation, and harassment. The findings suggest that key urban policy measures and proactive design strategies not only mitigate crime, but also foster a supportive environment that encourages active participation in urban life. The paper concludes by recommending that urban planners, policymakers, and community stakeholders adopt a gender-sensitive approach to the built environment design to ultimately contribute to broader social and economic development by reducing crime and increasing safety. This study emphasizes the need for comprehensive, data-informed urban policies at the early planning stages that prioritise women’s safety and participation in public spaces, setting a foundation for more inclusive and equitable urban environments in India.