CHANGE FROM RESIDENTIAL USE INTO COMMERCIAL: A CASE STUDY OF SINAMANGAL LANDPOOLING AREA

Abstract

Change in urban land use is a global phenomenon occurring over time. In a developing country like Nepal, using a residential property for commercial purposes has become a popular choice for thousands of people living in urban areas which is a cost-effective and time-saving option. The aim of the study is to find the influencing factor and impact due to change in use from residential into the commercial in the Sinamangal Landpooling area especially designed and approved for the residential purposes by the Government of Nepal which reflect the less understanding of the market forces and future trends by the planning authority. The purpose and intent of the Land pooling project have not been met. Among the different factors for the increase in the commercial activities profit maximization and the population growth and demands are the major factors for the change in use. Due to the increase in the encroachment of commercial activities in the major as well as in the residential street causes overstretching of infrastructure, lack of parking space, Overcrowding, abuse of planning standards, high increase of the property value etc. destroying the peaceful residential environment. If the raising pressure on commercial land use is not controlled and maintained the commercial use will be sprawling all over the area contributing to the rapid decaying of the planned area (urban fabric) and making the LP techniques failures in the future. To control the haphazard development of the commercial use in the LP area, the policy needs to be updated or modified in order to incorporate the other aspects of the planning as well as the inhabitants and the local government of the area should be actively involved and control the extensive use of the commercial activities to make the peaceful living environment. Moreover, Land pooling area sshould be designated as a "comprehensive development zone". Then, planning standards and Urban design guidelines should be created to create a better urban environment.