Title:
Integrating Dual Economies and Tourism Growth in Malvan, Tarkarli, and Devbagh: An
Urban Design Perspective on Bazaar and Beach Activities
Abstract:
This research paper explores the balance between the dual economies of local livelihood and
tourism growth in Malvan, Tarkarli, and Devbagh. It emphasizes enhancing local bazaars,
beachside tourism, and cultural activities through sustainable urban design strategies. The
paper presents comparative analyses, identifies key activities, and proposes planning solutions
to maintain cultural identity while supporting economic development.
1. Introduction:
Malvan, Tarkarli, and Devbagh are coastal regions witnessing rapid tourism growth.
While tourism supports the local economy, it creates pressure on traditional bazaars
and cultural spaces. This study focuses on finding urban design solutions that can
balance tourism with the protection and enhancement of local economies, bazaars, and
beachside activities.
2. Aim:
To propose urban design strategies that sustainably integrate local bazaars, beach
activities, and cultural experiences to support dual economies in Malvan, Tarkarli, and
Devbagh.
3. Objectives:
• To catalogue local and beachside tourism activities.
• To understand the impact of tourism on traditional bazaars.
• To compare local activities versus tourism-driven activities.
• To suggest urban design interventions for balanced growth.
4. Need for Study:
The increasing tourist footfall is transforming the local economy but risks the
displacement of traditional vendors and cultural loss. Sustainable urban design is
needed to harmonize both local and tourist economies
5. Methodology:
• Field visits and observation studies.
• Interviews with local stakeholders (vendors, fishermen, tourists).
• Mapping of bazaars, beaches, and activity zones.
• Comparative analysis of traditional vs. tourism-led economies.
6. Comparative Analysis: Traditional Local Economy vs. Tourism-Driven Economy
Factors Traditional Local Economy Tourism-Driven Economy
Primary Vendors Fishermen, fruit sellers, spice Water sports operators, souvenir
vendors sellers
Core Activities Fish auctions, spice trade, coconut Scuba diving, boating, beach sports
selling
Scale of Small-scale, daily trade Medium to large scale, seasonal &
Operations peak-based
Customer Base Local residents, small hotels Domestic and international tourists
Dependency Based on local produce and daily Based on tourist arrivals and
catch seasons
Cultural Value High, linked to heritage and Moderate, entertainment-focused
traditions
Risk Factors Decline due to tourist-centric Seasonal fluctuation, environmental
spaces strain
Growth Potential Can grow through branding and Can grow with proper zoning and
guided trails regulations
Urban Design Preservation of traditional Organized tourist zones and beach
Needs markets facilities
7. Tourism and Local Bazaar Activity Categorization
Activity Type Local Bazaar Activities Beachside Tourism Activities
Cultural Activities Malvani music, pottery, cooking Folk music evenings, boat building
sessions demos
Adventure Activities Traditional games, spice Scuba diving, parasailing, jet
grinding skiing
Family-Friendly Puppet shows, night bazaars, Sand castle competitions, dolphin
Activities food stalls watching
Seasonal Activities Mango festivals, coconut fests, Turtle nesting tours, kite flying
homestays festivals
Environmental Coastal clean-ups, eco-friendly Eco tours, coral viewing,
Activities souvenirs mangrove walks
Suggested Urban Design Interventions
Intervention Type Proposed Action Benefit
Bazaar Enhancement Bazaar circuits with traditional Boosts local economy and vendor
stalls visibility
Beachfront Zoning Separate adventure, relaxation, Reduces environmental impact,
and eco zones improves safety
Cultural Nodes Music corners, storytelling Preserves local culture, engages
areas tourists
Seasonal Activity Setup for night bazaars, kite Maximizes seasonal tourism
Spaces festivals
Walkability Better footpaths, signages, Improves tourist movement and
Improvements resting areas local access
Environmental Waste collection zones, clean- Maintains beach hygiene,
Management up stations promotes eco-tourism
