The Challenge:

Quetta, a city prone to seismic activities like earthquakes, faces challenges in urban planning that can accommodate natural disasters while also improving the quality of life for its residents. Traditional infrastructure often falls short in providing environmental benefits or enhancing ecological resilience, which is crucial in disaster-prone areas. Click here to verify

The Solution:

To address these challenges, Green Infrastructure Development was initiated to integrate ecological features into Quetta’s urban landscape. This innovative approach includes the implementation of green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, aiming to enhance biodiversity, improve water management, and increase the city's ecological resilience against natural disasters.

"Introducing green infrastructure is a step towards not only making our city safer but also more livable and environmentally friendly." - Ayesha (Urban Planner)

The Implementation:

Imran, an experienced landscape architect, was at the forefront of planning and designing these green infrastructure projects. Collaborating with urban planners and ecologists, Imran helped create designs that were both aesthetically pleasing and functional, considering Quetta’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Efforts were made to ensure that new developments included green features, and existing structures were retrofitted where feasible. Public awareness campaigns and community workshops played a critical role in educating residents about the benefits of green infrastructure, which facilitated greater public involvement and support for the projects.

"Seeing the community come together to support and participate in these initiatives has been incredibly rewarding." - Imran (Landscape Architect)

The Impact:

The introduction of green infrastructure in Quetta has led to a noticeable improvement in urban biodiversity and ecological resilience. The city has seen an increase in native species and a reduction in runoff water, thanks to features like rain gardens and permeable pavements. Moreover, these initiatives have bolstered the community's engagement with urban development, making them active participants in shaping a sustainable urban environment.

"Our city feels rejuvenated. We now have functional and beautiful spaces that protect us while connecting us closer to nature." - Bilal (Local Resident)

Lessons Learned:

·    Collaborative Design Processes: Involving a range of experts and stakeholders in the planning and design of green infrastructure ensured that the projects met both ecological and social needs effectively.

·    Public Engagement and Education: Raising awareness and involving the community in the development process were essential for gaining public support and ensuring the successful adoption and maintenance of green infrastructure.

·    Policy Support: Working closely with local government to adjust policies and regulations was crucial in facilitating the integration of green infrastructure into Quetta’s urban planning. These adjustments helped create a supportive environment for sustainable urban development.