FORM BASED CODES IN KERLA: A CASE OF PALLICHAL AND BALARAMAPURAM

Current development regulations in India largely depend on land-use zoning and building rules, often resulting in monotonous and unpredictable built environments.Form-Based Codes (FBCs) present an alternative approach to urban development by prioritizing physical form and the quality of the public realm over traditional land-use classifications.In Kerala, regulatory frameworks are primarily governed by land-use zoning and the Kerala Building Rules.This one-size-fits-all approach neglects the state's urban-to-rural diversity, limiting the scope for contextsensitive planning.As rapid urbanization transforms both urban and semi-rural areas, there is an urgent need for more adaptable, place-based regulatory frameworks that encourage sustainable growth and enhance public spaces.FBCs, with their inherently contextual nature, offer flexibility suited to Kerala's varied landscapes and settlement patterns.However, the absence of region-specific FBC guidelines poses a significant challenge to their large-scale adoption.This study explores the potential for the contextual adaptation of Form-Based Codes in Kerala by critically analyzing existing planning regulations.It identifies the opportunities and barriers associated with FBC implementation and presents strategic recommendations to aid policymakers and urban planners in effectively integrating FBC principles within Kerala's diverse urban and rural environments.