LARAS NATA

The rapid urban growth occurring in rapidly urbanizing regions often results in city development that is predominantly adult-centric, prioritizing economic functions and vehicular mobility over the social needs and public spaces of its citizens, especially children. As a result, many Green Open Spaces (GOS) and safe, free, and easily accessible play areas are declining or being displaced by other interests.

The diminishing availability of play spaces for children in the age span of 3 to 12 years old in developing countries has become a serious concern, indicating inequitable accessibility and a lack of child-focused considerations in urban planning. Studies have reported a decrease in green space around elementary schools from 21% to just 11% over 13 years, due to land conversions for residential and commercial purposes. Furthermore, approximately 70% of urban parks in several areas have undergone shrinkage or functional transformation, exacerbating the unequal distribution of recreational spaces. Consequently, over 70% of children in densely populated urban areas lack access to proper playgrounds, often resorting to hazardous spaces such as streets, drainage areas, and vacant lots to play.