Using GIS for urban planning and development

Abstract

Urban planning and development demand accurate, data-driven approaches to address the challenges of rapid urbanization, resource management, and sustainable growth. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have become an essential tool for urban planners, offering advanced capabilities to collect, analyze, and visualize spatial and non-spatial data. This paper explores the role of GIS in various aspects of urban development, including land use planning, infrastructure management, transportation systems, environmental monitoring, disaster risk reduction, housing, public health, and policy formulation. Case studies from India, Singapore, the United States, and Brazil highlight practical applications and demonstrate the transformative impact of GIS in shaping modern cities. The advantages of GIS-such as accuracy, efficiency, integration, and participatory planning-are discussed along with challenges like data limitations, cost, and technical complexity. Looking ahead, the integration of GIS with emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Internet of Things (IoT) will further enhance its potential to support smart, resilient, and sustainable urban futures.