Managing urban parks and gardens in developing countries: a case from an Indian city

Abstract

The Chandigarh City of India is known for its urban parks, gardens and well planned landscaping. In a research case study undertaken during 2002-2006, an assessment about the annual recreational value of this city's urban greenery was made by using travel cost method on the domestic tourists. The consumer surplus per visit enjoyed by domestic tourists was estimated. Governments in developing countries are generally facing resource crunch for the maintenance of existing parks/gardens and for the creation of new ones. A mechanism of charging a proper entrance fee for the city's parks and gardens has been discussed by meaningfully utilising this consumer surplus on one hand and revenue generation for the local administration, on the other. The results of the study would be useful for green space and urban land use planning as well as for overall sustainable urban development.