Detection of urban system in India: Urban hierarchy revisited

Abstract This paper uses concepts and measures from the central place theory to describe and analyze the settlement hierarchy in India. Using statistical analysis, a mismatch between the population-based hierarchy and the functional hierarchy is identified. Large cities lack adequate provision of urban amenities compared to small urban centers, which are relatively better provided to sustain future population growth. The findings confirm that spatial disparities might be exacerbated by large investment projects like the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor in the absence of regional planning. The paper argues for a strong institutional structure and advocates for place-based policies in order to facilitate implementation of large-scale cross-border infrastructure projects and to harness the potential of smaller urban centers.