Societies Reviewer 1

Comments

Response/ Compliance

Overall, this is an interesting article. In rapidly urbanizing developing countries, it is crucial to promote community development and sustainable social development. The paper is well structured, has a detailed literature review, and uses first-hand survey data, the analysis process is reasonable and the results are reliable. It is recommended that this paper be revised before publication.

Thank you for your positive feedback and constructive recommendations. We appreciate your recognition of the importance of promoting community development and sustainable social development in rapidly urbanizing developing countries. Your acknowledgment of the paper's structure, detailed literature review, and robust analysis process are encouraging.

We have carefully considered your suggestions for revisions. Your insights are invaluable in refining our work and enhancing its contribution to the field.

In the introduction, the article cites SDG 11.7.1, which I think is appropriate and shows the international general significance of this study. However, the content of 11.7.1 is very specific, and whether it can cover the concerns of this study needs to be further verified. If it is difficult to cover, it is recommended that a more comprehensive objective be cited.

Thank you for your insightful comment. Sustainable development relies on three pillars: social, economic, and environmental. This research focuses specifically on the social aspects outlined in SDG 11, particularly Target 11.7 and 11.7.1, which emphasize ensuring inclusive and accessible green and public spaces that foster social interaction. While SDG 11.7.1 is specific, the city's built-up average percentage area that is open space for everyone to use and engage in social activities aligns with the social sustainability concerns of this study. This discussion is addressed in lines 94-101 of the introduction..

The purpose of the study needs to be more clearly stated.

Compliance has been made accordingly; on page: 07

The literature review is generally OK. However, it needs to be summarized further and state what is new in this study compared to existing studies or what is special about it.

Thank you for the suggestion. It is important to note that similar research focusing on social sustainability in the Sindh province, particularly in Qasimabad Taluka, has been largely neglected. This study is unique in its context, as it addresses the specific social sustainability challenges faced by this region, which have not been explored extensively in previous research. By focusing on the local nuances of urban planning and community development in Sindh, this study aims to fill a significant gap in the existing literature and provide valuable insights for both policymakers and urban designers. See page no. 07, addressed in lines: 316-325.

With regard to the study area, it is recommended that a plan map be added, which will enable the reader to understand the spatial structure and functional layout of the area.

Thank you for your feedback. The maps you mentioned are indeed included. Refer to Figure 5. Location Indication (Selected Housing Schemes); see page no 12.

The research methodology is generally suitable.

Thank you for your feedback. We appreciate your confirmation that the research methodology is generally suitable. If you have any further suggestions or areas for improvement, please let us know. Your input is valuable in ensuring the robustness of our methodology.

The results of the analyses are detailed and generally appropriate. Some discussion could be added about the differences in results between the two regions.

Compliance has been made accordingly. See the results section.

In Part 5, please check whether there is any content missing in the middle of subsections 5.1 and 5.4. It is recommended that additional discussion be added to detail what initiatives can contribute to sustainable community development in urban planning efforts.

Thank you for your feedback on Part 5 of the document. We have reviewed the section and identified a bulleting error that has now been rectified. Thank you again for bringing this to our attention.

What are the limitations of this study? Relevant discussions need to be added as appropriate.

Compliance has been made accordingly; on page: 07, addressed in lines: 326- 334; and page no. 26, addressed in lines: 903-912.

                                                        Societies Reviewer 2         

Comments

Response/ Compliance

Abstract

            The abstract section generally provides the overall understanding of the study. The current research focuses on the degree of social sustainability in Qasimabad Taluka of Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. It shows diminishing living conditions as dictated by rising levels of urbanization. In their work, they conduct a survey of 307 residents and Data Analysis, pointing at such problems as poor infrastructure and no green areas demanding profound interferences in Urban Planning.

Thank you for your feedback on the abstract. The intention of the abstract is to provide a concise overview of the study, highlighting the primary focus on social sustainability in Qasimabad Taluka, Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. The research aims to shed light on the deteriorating living conditions due to rapid urbanization.

The study's methodology involves a comprehensive survey of 307 residents, coupled with thorough data analysis, to identify critical issues such as inadequate infrastructure and the absence of green spaces. These findings underscore the urgent need for significant interventions in urban planning to enhance social sustainability.

Your observation regarding the abstract's clarity and coverage is valuable. We aim to ensure that the abstract effectively communicates the essence and significance of the research, emphasizing the broader implications for urban planning and social sustainability in developing regions like Pakistan.

Introduction:  The introduction section briefs the introductory part of the research. This research adopts the concept of social sustainability and applies it to the Qasimabad Taluka Hyderabad, Pakistan to analyze urban planning practices in the area in the development of residential communities. Tackles and overcomes limitations by discussing the kind of positive community relations people should promote to enhance the quality of the lives of the citizens.

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. This research aims to apply the concept of social sustainability to Qasimabad Taluka, Hyderabad, Pakistan, to analyze urban planning practices in residential communities. The introduction highlights the importance of social sustainability, encompassing environmental, economic, and citizen well-being aspects. The research addresses current urban planning limitations by discussing how positive community relations can enhance residents' quality of life. Your feedback emphasizes the need to clearly articulate these objectives and the broader implications for urban planning and social sustainability in developing countries.

Literature Review:   The literature review section demonstrates the knowledge of the research based on the prior articles or any studies. The study discusses the current literature concerning sustainable neighborhood planning and puts an emphasis on social sustainability based on the latest research and the analyzed cases. It focuses on the following factors as essential for the organization of space, green areas, and composite use of the land to improve the lives of people and deal with the challenges posed by urbanization.

Thank you for your insightful comment. The literature review aims to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of sustainable neighborhood planning, emphasizing social sustainability.

Your feedback highlights the importance of grounding the study in robust literature to provide a strong foundation for our analysis and contribute valuable insights into urban planning and social sustainability.

Materials and Methods:   The materials and method section provides an understanding of the methodology which has been used in this research. The paper analyses social sustainability in Hyderabad’s Qasimabad Taluka through questionnaires and observations. There is a focus on the housing schemes of Deh Sari and Deh Jamshoro and points of consideration include social integration, security, and reach.

Thank you for your comment on the materials and methods section. We specifically focus on the housing schemes of Deh Sari and Deh Jamshoro, considering key factors such as social integration, security, and accessibility. These elements are crucial for assessing the current state of social sustainability and identifying areas for improvement in urban planning.

Your feedback highlights the importance of a well-defined methodology to ensure the reliability and validity of our findings. By clearly outlining our approach, we aim to provide a robust foundation for our analysis and contribute meaningful insights to the field of social sustainability in urban planning.

Results: The result section demonstrates the outcomes of the research. The findings of the research showed through structured observation, descriptive analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, the Yeh Satisfaction Index, and exploratory factor analysis that Qasimabad suffers from poor social sustainability and ineffective local land use planning. It also highlights poor infrastructure, low participation, inadequate amenities, and poor satisfaction levels among the people which mandates specific approaches to enhance the quality of the living environment in densely populated cities, coherence, and social inclusion.

Thank you for your feedback on the results section. The findings clearly demonstrate that Qasimabad faces significant challenges related to social sustainability and land use planning. Through structured observation, descriptive analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, the Yeh Satisfaction Index, and exploratory factor analysis, we identified issues such as poor infrastructure, low community participation, inadequate amenities, and low satisfaction levels among residents.

These results highlight the urgent need for specific strategies to enhance the quality of the living environment, improve coherence, and foster social inclusion in densely populated areas. We appreciate your feedback as it reinforces the importance of addressing these critical issues in urban planning.

Findings and Discussion:  The findings and discussion chapter briefs the analysis of the result and discussion based on the outcomes. The results suggest a number of areas where Qasimabad is lacking in social sustainability in terms of the capabilities for inclusion, accommodation, provision, services, and interaction. The research focuses on enhancing the practice of social sustainability within the field of urban planning to foster residents’ quality of life and engagement based on addressing these pivotal concerns that are fundamental for the formation of sustainable communities for policymakers and builders.

Thank you for your comments on the findings and discussion part. The analysis highlights several critical areas where Qasimabad is deficient in social sustainability, particularly concerning inclusion, accommodation, provision, services, and interaction. The research emphasizes the need to enhance social sustainability practices in urban planning to improve residents' quality of life and engagement. We appreciate your feedback as it underscores the importance of these issues in shaping effective urban planning strategies.

Comments: It has been stated that these results stress the importance of developing strategies for increasing opportunities, accessible environments, and community participation. This research is useful for policymakers and urban designers who are interested particularly in the creation of sustainable and integrated communities.

Thank you for your comment. We agree that the results highlight the crucial need for developing strategies to enhance opportunities, accessible environments, and community participation. This research aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban designers focused on creating sustainable and integrated communities. Your feedback underscores the relevance of our findings in informing effective urban planning and community development strategies.

Societies Reviewer 3

Comments

Response/ Compliance

I reviewed the article titled "Cultivating Community: Addressing Social Sustainability in Rapidly Urbanizing Hyderabad City, Pakistan". It explores the critical issue of social sustainability within the context of urban planning, particularly in developing regions like Hyderabad, Pakistan. The research focuses on Qasimabad Taluka, a rapidly urbanizing area transitioning from lush farmland to residential sectors, leading to declining living standards and weakened social sustainability metrics.

We appreciate your acknowledgment of our focus on social sustainability in Qasimabad Taluka. As highlighted, our research addresses the impacts of urbanization on living standards and social sustainability, aiming to offer insights and strategies for improving conditions in rapidly developing areas like Hyderabad. Your feedback is invaluable in emphasizing the relevance of this study.

1-     The article highlights the importance of social sustainability, a frequently overlooked aspect in urban planning, especially in developing countries. By examining social equity, community accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal, the study emphasizes the need for comprehensive urban planning that goes beyond mere physical infrastructure.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad you found the emphasis on social sustainability valuable. Our study indeed focuses on social equity, accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal, aiming to highlight the need for a holistic approach to urban planning that addresses both physical infrastructure and the broader aspects of community well-being. Your acknowledgment of this focus is greatly appreciated.

2-     The study employs a comprehensive questionnaire survey with a sample size of 307, using cluster and quota sampling techniques. The data analysis with SPSS-22, supported by reliability and exploratory factor analysis, provides robust empirical evidence on the state of social sustainability in Qasimabad Taluka.

We appreciate your recognition of the comprehensive methodology employed in our study. The use of a detailed questionnaire survey, coupled with robust data analysis using SPSS-22 and reliability and exploratory factor analysis, indeed strengthens the empirical evidence on social sustainability in Qasimabad Taluka. Your acknowledgment of these methods supports the validity and reliability of our findings.

3-     The findings reveal critical elements such as community accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal that need substantial interventions. This identification is crucial for urban planners to address the deteriorating infrastructure and create more livable and socially cohesive neighborhoods.

We’re pleased that the findings highlight key elements like community accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal. Identifying these critical areas underscores the need for substantial interventions to address deteriorating infrastructure and foster more livable, socially cohesive neighborhoods. Your insight reinforces the importance of these aspects for urban planners striving to improve community well-being.

4- The article provides actionable insights and recommendations for urban planners and policymakers. By shedding light on the critical needs of Qasimabad Taluka, it offers a pathway for developing sustainable living environments, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) of the UN-Habitat, which focuses on making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad to hear that the article's insights and recommendations for urban planners and policymakers are valuable. By addressing the critical needs of Qasimabad Taluka, our study aims to contribute to the development of sustainable living environments, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) to create inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities. Your acknowledgment of this alignment is much appreciated.

5-     The study adds to the limited body of research on social sustainability in urban planning within developing countries. By focusing on Hyderabad, Pakistan, it provides a case study that can be referenced in similar contexts worldwide.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re pleased to hear that the study contributes to the limited research on social sustainability in urban planning within developing countries. By focusing on Hyderabad, Pakistan, it provides a valuable case study that can inform similar contexts globally. Your recognition of this contribution is greatly appreciated and supports the relevance of our findings.

6-     The use of cluster and quota sampling techniques, along with comprehensive data analysis methods like SPSS-22, enhances the methodological rigor in studying social sustainability. This approach can be adopted and refined by future researchers in similar studies.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad you recognize the methodological rigor of using cluster and quota sampling techniques, alongside comprehensive data analysis with SPSS-22. We hope that this approach not only enhances the validity of our study but also serves as a useful framework for future researchers exploring social sustainability in similar contexts. Your acknowledgment is greatly appreciated.

7-     The article contributes to the development of frameworks and models for assessing social sustainability. The integration of Yeh’s satisfaction index model and exploratory factor analysis provides a structured approach to evaluating social sustainability parameters.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re pleased that the article’s contribution to developing frameworks and models for assessing social sustainability is recognized. The integration of Yeh’s satisfaction index model and exploratory factor analysis indeed provides a structured approach to evaluating social sustainability parameters. Your acknowledgment of this methodology highlights its potential value for future research and practical applications.

8-     By bridging the gap between urban planning and social sciences, the study underscores the importance of considering social aspects in urban development. This interdisciplinary approach enriches the scientific literature and encourages holistic urban planning practices.

Thank you for your feedback. We’re pleased that the study’s interdisciplinary approach, bridging urban planning and social sciences, is recognized. By highlighting the importance of social aspects in urban development. Your acknowledgment of this integration is greatly appreciated.

Based on the review of the study, below are the overall weaknesses identified which need the author(s) attention:

1-     The study is confined to Qasimabad Taluka in Hyderabad, which may not represent other areas with different urban dynamics.

The findings and suggestions of this study can be beneficial not only for the other talukas (sub-regions) of Hyderabad city for the design of residential neighborhoods. The findings of this research will help the planners and policymakers of Pakistan and other countries and nations, where social sustainability is still an emerging idea. Those nations can incorporate social sustainability factors in the residential design guidelines of their policy documents (this justification is also included in the manuscript at the end of introduction part).

2-     While 307 respondents were surveyed, a larger sample size might provide more comprehensive insights and improve the generalizability of the findings.

The justification is included in the methodology section on page 10.

3-     The use of cluster and quota sampling techniques might introduce biases and may not fully capture the diversity of the population.

The justification is included in the methodology section on page 10-11. This research was collected from the two groups (Dehs) of Qasimabad Taluka, therefore a combination of both probability and un-probability sampling were used. The housing schemes in Deh sari and Deh Jamshoro were developed during 1979-2010 by Hyderabad Development Authority. Afterwards the housing schemes were developed in other Dehs of Qasimabad Takuka.

Therefore, the purpose of using cluster sampling was to give equal chance to all housing scheme developed in different decays. The quota sampling technique was adopted at the housing scheme level and 10% households of every housing scheme were consulted for the filling of the questionnaire.  

4-     The study relies heavily on self-reported data from questionnaires, which can be subject to response biases.

This study utilized close-ended questions to delve into subjective experiences and the influence of sustainable practices on residents' daily lives. The adaptive questionnaire was designed with a focus on social sustainability characteristics, ensuring it covered important areas such as opportunities for community residents to engage, inclusivity and accessibility, facilities and amenities, and social cohesion and safety. The pu

5-     The study provides a snapshot of social sustainability at a specific point in time but does not account for changes over time.

The justification is included in the methodology section on page 10-11.

6-     The findings are specific to Qasimabad Taluka and might not be applicable to other rapidly urbanizing regions with different socio-economic contexts.

Thank you for the insight. The comparison of research findings has been incorporated. See page: 23; addressed in lines: 785-799.

7-     While the study addresses community accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal, it may overlook other crucial social sustainability factors such as economic opportunities and education quality.

Thank you for your feedback. The scope of this research is limited to accessibility, safety, green spaces, and aesthetic appeal to provide an in-depth analysis of these aspects. While it did not explore economic opportunities and education quality. These factors are valuable areas for future research.

8-     The reliance on SPSS-22 and specific models like Yeh’s satisfaction index might limit the depth of the analysis. Other advanced statistical methods could provide additional insights.

This study employed SPSS-22 and Yeh's satisfaction index for statistical analysis, which facilitated the efficient handling of large datasets and provided valuable insights into residents' satisfaction with social sustainability. Yeh's index was particularly effective for assessing satisfaction levels. For future research, incorporating advanced statistical methods such as structural equation modeling or multivariate analyses could offer more nuanced insights. The exploratory factor analysis is also used for additional insights.

9-     The emphasis on physical infrastructure development might overshadow the importance of social policies and programs that enhance social sustainability.

We acknowledge the critical role of social policies and programs in enhancing social sustainability. While this study emphasized physical infrastructure, it is important to note that there is often a lack of monitoring and implementation of social policies in developing countries. This oversight can undermine efforts to achieve comprehensive social sustainability. For a detailed discussion on this issue, please refer to page 25, addressed in lines: 877-887.

10-  The study identifies key issues but provides limited analysis on existing policies and their effectiveness in promoting social sustainability.

Compliance has been made accordingly. See page 25.

11-  There may be a lack of direct engagement with local communities in the planning and implementation of interventions.

The study's findings highlight a potential gap in directly engaging local communities in the planning and implementation of interventions. This lack of engagement could affect the effectiveness and relevance of the proposed solutions. Future research should focus on incorporating community feedback to ensure that interventions are well-aligned with local needs and preferences.

12-  Although the study checks for reliability and validity, the metrics used might not fully capture the complex nature of social sustainability.

The study used Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to validate the metrics. While these methods ensure reliability and validity, capturing the full complexity of social sustainability.

13-  The study may not adequately account for cultural factors that influence social sustainability and community engagement in the specific context of Hyderabad.

14-  The article might not sufficiently address the economic challenges and disparities that impact social sustainability

Thank you for your feedback. The study does indeed highlight significant dissatisfaction with social sustainability, particularly due to the lack of designated spaces for community and cultural interactions. Similarly, it is evident that economic considerations have not been adequately addressed by the authorities, and this economic disparity is a noticeable issue in the neighborhood. As a result, the study primarily focuses on the absence of essential aspects of social sustainability. We acknowledge that both cultural factors and economic challenges are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of social sustainability and community engagement in Hyderabad. However, the economic challenges was not in the scope of the study.

15-  While green spaces are mentioned, broader environmental sustainability issues such as pollution and climate resilience are not deeply explored.

Thank you for your feedback. While the study emphasizes dissatisfaction with social sustainability due to the lack of spaces for interaction and leisure, it also notes that environmental considerations were similarly neglected by the authorities. The neighborhood faces significant environmental issues, including a lack of green spaces and pollution, which were evident in our structured observations. The study has covered community engagement, inclusivity & accessibility, social cohesion & safety, and facilities & amenities factors of social sustainability.  

16-  The study does not discuss the role of technology and smart city initiatives in enhancing social sustainability.

Thank you for your observation. The primary focus of this study was on the social aspects of sustainability within the context of residential neighborhoods, specifically evaluating community engagement, inclusivity, accessibility, facilities, and social cohesion. While smart city initiatives and technology are indeed important for enhancing social sustainability, they were not within the scope of this research. Future studies could certainly explore how such initiatives could be integrated to further improve social sustainability in developing countries.

17-  The article identifies the need for substantial interventions but lacks a detailed discussion on the practical challenges and feasibility of implementing these interventions.

The justification is included in the discussion and conclusion sections on page 21-24.

In addition to the weaknesses mentioned above, below are suggested area of improvement divided section by section:

1-     Abstract: The abstract could be more specific about the implications of the findings for urban planning policy. It should briefly mention the limitations of the study to set realistic expectations for the reader.

The compliance is made accordingly in the abstract. 

2-     Introduction: The introduction could benefit from a more detailed explanation of the theoretical framework underpinning social sustainability. The objectives of the study should be more explicitly stated to provide clear direction.

Compliance was made accordingly in the introduction section of the article.

3-     Literature Review: The review could be more critical, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of existing studies. There is a need for a clearer connection between the reviewed literature and the current study’s research questions.

Compliance has been made accordingly; on page: 07.

4-     Methodology: The justification for the chosen sample size and sampling methods should be elaborated. More details on the questionnaire design, including how questions were developed and validated, would improve transparency. The methodology could include a discussion on potential biases and how they were addressed.

The justification is included in the methodology section on page 10-11. This research was collected from the two groups (Dehs) of Qasimabad Taluka, therefore a combination of both probability and un-probability sampling were used. The housing schemes in Deh sari and Deh Jamshoro were developed during 1979-2010 by Hyderabad Development Authority. Afterwards the housing schemes were developed in other Dehs of Qasimabad Takuka.

Therefore, the purpose of using cluster sampling was to give equal chance to all housing scheme developed in different decays. The quota sampling technique was adopted at the housing scheme level and 10% households of every housing scheme were consulted for the filling of the questionnaire.  

5-    Data Collection: The section could provide more information on how participant observations were conducted. Details on the demographics of the survey respondents should be included to assess the representativeness of the sample.

Compliance has been made accordingly. See Data Collection Section.

6-     Results: The interpretation of the data could be more detailed, explaining the significance of the results in the context of social sustainability. Comparative analysis with similar studies in other regions could provide additional insights.

Insightfulness of Results: We deem the outcomes, although not shaking the core concepts that exist on a larger scale, as extremely valuable due to the localized perceptive they offer which are cumulatively part of the social sustainability framework that is confined in residential neighborhoods. Lacking more comprehensive surveying is no reason to throw away the achievements registered through this preliminary research. These insights can then serve to pave the way for more elaborate explorations in the future.

Statistical Treatment: The statistical study of our small sample, although it did not use the largest number of respondents, we took a lot of care to ensure conclusions that were not overreaching. We processed the data carefully by using statistical methods such that the results were precise and meaningful enough to be included in our study.

The respective compliance has been made. See Result Section.

7-     Discussion: The discussion should address the study’s limitations more explicitly and suggest directions for future research. A deeper analysis of the implications for policy and practice is needed, including potential challenges in implementation.

Compliance has been made accordingly; on page: 07, addressed in lines: 326- 334; and page no. 26, addressed in lines: 903-912.

8-     Conclusion: The conclusion could be more forward-looking, proposing specific actions for policymakers and planners. It should reiterate the study’s contribution to the existing literature on social sustainability.

Compliance has been made accordingly; on page: 23, Addressed in lines: 800-815, and on page: 26 addressed in lines: 877-899.