Abstract
The pandemic has caused a profound upheaval in countless lives, catalyzing substantial alterations in lifestyles and daily routines worldwide. This study undertakes a focused examination of the intricate ramifications of pandemics on individuals navigating bustling marketplaces. It aims not only to comprehend these effects but also to proffer pragmatic solutions aimed at curtailing disease transmission within such vital economic nodes. It seeks to both understand these impacts and suggest workable strategies to stop the spread of diseases. Employing a robust case study methodology, this research delves into the multifaceted impact of pandemic diseases on commercial hubs, with a particular emphasis on a prominent wholesale market complex. Through the lens of a comprehensive analytical framework, the study endeavors to dissect the operational dynamics underpinning markets across the diverse landscape of India. By meticulously conducting surveys both preceding and following the onset of the pandemic, the study meticulously identifies the challenges inherent in the functioning of these markets. With the help of the findings of the survey, it finds and extrapolates proposed solutions and recommendations, rigorously evaluating their efficacy through subsequent surveys. Furthermore, this investigation extends beyond mere observation, delving into the nuanced shifts in operational dynamics within wholesale market complexes. In response to these findings, the study advocates for a blend of architectural and non-architectural interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of pandemic diseases on existing markets. Moreover, it furnishes recommendations for future market planning, underlining the imperative of prioritizing visitor safety and proactively addressing significant threats to public health.
Keywords: Built Environment, Built-Up Space, Pandemic, Urban Planning, Urban Spaces.