Award-Winning Planning Thesis | Socio-Spatial Impacts of Dam Operations - Omkareshwar

This talk documents the academic journey of Aastha Bhamoriya, a Bachelor of Planning graduate from SPA Bhopal, whose undergraduate thesis won 1st Place (Bachelor’s Category) at the NIUA Student Thesis Competition – Season 4: Reimagining Urban Rivers.

Her thesis, “Assessing Socio-Spatial Impacts of Dam Operations on Downstream Areas: A Case of Omkareshwar Dam”, critically examines how dam operations reshape downstream ecologies, settlements, livelihoods, and spatial systems. The work highlights the often-overlooked human and environmental consequences of large hydraulic infrastructure and emphasizes the need for ecologically sensitive planning approaches.

More than an academic exercise, this thesis demonstrates how rigorous research, clear problem framing, and contextual understanding can translate into national recognition and meaningful professional engagement.

Why you should watch this session:
• Understand how to frame a strong, competition-ready planning thesis
• Learn analytical and spatial research methods rooted in real-world contexts
• Explore how planning research can influence sustainability and resilience discourse
• Gain confidence to present academic work on national platforms

This session is especially relevant for planning and architecture students, young professionals, and anyone interested in urban ecology, river systems, and resilient planning practices.