A MICRO-LEVEL AN ALYSIS: SPATIAL DISTRIBUTION OF URBAN PARKS AND QUALITY OF LIFE CONCERNS - A CASE STUDY OF GULSHAN TOWN

Urban parks are essential for sustainable urban living, offering spaces that integrate nature with the built environment, while fostering social interaction, physical activity, and emotional well-being. This study examines the spatial distribution and availability of urban parks in Gulshan Town, Karachi, against the backdrop of rapid urbanization and population growth. Employing Geographic Information System (GIS) tools such as ArcGIS 10.8 and Google Earth Engine (GEE), the research maps green space per capita and evaluates it against international standards, including those proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). The findings reveal a significant shortage of accessible green spaces relative to the population, alongside notable spatial disparities influenced by socio-economic factors. These results underscore the inequitable allocation of urban parks and their broader implications for residents’ quality of life. By offering a detailed analysis of park distribution and accessibility, this study provides critical insights into urban green space planning and recommends for evidence-driven policies to ensure equitable and sustainable urban development. Keywords: Urban parks, spatial analysis, ArcGIS, proxbilty, accessibility, urban green spaces