Urban design plays a critical role in shaping the quality, identity, and functionality of cities. In historic urban precincts like Mumbai’s Fort Area, sensitive design interventions are essential to balance infrastructure improvements with heritage conservation. UDRI’s work in urban design began with detailed precinct studies in the Fort Area in 1994, generating comprehensive data on the physical and institutional challenges of the area. The proposals developed through this work were published in five precinct booklets and implemented through several restoration projects. In 2003, UDRI prepared the Fort Management Plan, a comprehensive framework to coordinate infrastructure improvements while preserving the heritage character of the precinct. The organisation is currently working on a local area plan and pedestrian strategy for the Fort Area, integrating the newly introduced Aqualine metro stations and improving public realm connectivity.

Mumbai’s built heritage reflects its layered history and urban identity. However, rapid urban development often places historic precincts and buildings under significant pressure. UDRI has played a key role in shaping the discourse and practice of heritage conservation in Mumbai since the early 1990s. Beginning with the 1993 seminar Conserving an Image Centre, UDRI initiated a series of studies and advocacy efforts focused on the Fort Area and other historic precincts. The organisation continues to monitor heritage issues and is currently working on updating GIS metadata for heritage buildings in Ward A, consolidating fragmented information to support informed conservation strategies.

Large-scale infrastructure and redevelopment projects play a transformative role in shaping the spatial and economic future of cities. Strategic planning is essential to ensure that such projects benefit the wider urban public. UDRI has engaged with infrastructure planning in Mumbai through research and policy advisory work. Its Eastern Waterfront Study (2000) was among the first to examine Mumbai’s eastern edge as a single integrated urban site, highlighting its potential as a public and economic asset. In 2014, UDRI was part of the Rani Jadhav Committee, which developed strategies and scenarios for the future redevelopment of Mumbai’s eastern portlands.

Urban development often places traditional livelihoods at risk, particularly for indigenous and informal communities whose economic activities are closely tied to the city’s geography. UDRI has worked to protect the livelihoods of Mumbai’s indigenous Koli fishing communities, whose coastal settlements face pressure from redevelopment, regulatory changes, and declining fish catch. The organisation studied the impact of urban development on these communities and advocated for recognition of their settlements, markets, and livelihood infrastructure within planning frameworks. Between 2017 and 2021, UDRI worked with Koli communities and government agencies to secure greater recognition and protection for these settlements.