Harmonizing ancient wisdom with modern urban planning: Integrating geopathic energy and Vastu Shastra in sustainable urban development in Delhi NCR

Abstract

Focusing on their possible benefits for economic feasibility and livability in metropolitan regions, this paper investigated the integration of geopathic energy and Vastu Shastra concepts into sustainable urban development. Aligning Vastu Shastra concepts with geopathic energy management was hypothesised to help urban development to be sustainable. The study focused on the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR), where many proposed stalled real estate developments indicated underlying geopathic stress and non-compliance with Vastu standards. Data were gathered by means of a mixed-methods approach comprising field observations, interviews, and questionnaires. Project delays and financial losses were assessed using geopathic stress mapping and Vastu compliance analysis. High geopathic stress, project delays, and rising expenses showed notable relationships among other things. Qualitative observations underlined how better natural light, ventilation, and occupant well-being resulting from Vastu compliance would be. The results underlined the need of including conventional knowledge systems into modern urban design to improve sustainability and economic feasibility.