Olfactory Landscapes Of Transit Spaces: Exploration Of Smellscape And Public Health In Indian Cities

Abstract

The concept of smellscape, encompassing the olfactory environment as experienced within urban settings, is gaining increasing attention due to its impact on human perception, health, and well-being. In rail transit areas of rapidly urbanizing Indian cities, both pleasant and unpleasant odors contribute significantly to commuters’ sensory experience, yet this dimension remains largely overlooked by urban planners and transit designers. Effective detection and classification of urban odors are vital not only for enhancing commuter satisfaction but also for addressing public health challenges associated with exposure to malodorous and pollutant compounds prevalent in densely populated transit hubs. This paper synthesizes recent literature and methodological advances concerning the detection of good and bad urban odors within the context of Indian rail transit environments, discussing public health implications such as respiratory and psychological effects. Furthermore, it explores integrative design strategies aimed at improving the olfactory environment in transit settings, considering technological innovations and multisensory architectural approaches. Recommendations for urban planners and transit authorities emphasize the importance of incorporating smellscape assessments into environmental monitoring programs. This synthesis draws particularly on research related to the temporal and emotional layers of urban smellscapes, the impact of airborne allergens and pollutants on respiratory health, and rail transit station design considerations balancing public safety and environmental quality.