Spatial Planning as an Approach Towards Geoconservation: Promoting Geotourism in Kutch, India
摘要
Biodiversity and Geodiversity are two aspects of nature. Geodiversity elements, humans associate value(s) with, form our Geoheritage. In the absence of protection measures, Geoheritage becomes susceptible to anthropogenic use. This study explored the nexus between people, culture, landscape and Geotourism to suggest proper measures of Geoconservation through Urban Planning. The three Geoheritage sites; Khari Gorge, Tapkeshwari Hills and Kadiyo Dhrow from Kutch, Gujarat were studied in detail to form strategy to promote Geotourism. This study, an inductive exploratory research based on mixed methods evaluated scientific, educational, potential-use, tourist, historical, socio-cultural, ecological, and aesthetic values of the three Geoheritage sites. Qualitative data was analysed using framework analysis and quantitative data was analysed through Analytic Hierarchy Process and Pearson’s chi-square test. Recommendations are provided at policy and spatial level to ensure adequate integration of Geoheritage sites with urban planning. The outcome concludes; Geoheritage, an integral natural resource, forms an important link between the people and the culture of Kutch. In the study period (2021–2022), extending even today, Geoheritage lacks any protection status in India and remains unaddressed by any existing statutory planning instrument. If conserved, it possesses the intrinsic quality to additionally aid in the sustainable development of the region through Geotourism.