This thesis is based on evidence-based design approaches to sustainable and inclusive redevelopment of the high-density informal settlement of Rajaji Nagar (Chengalchoola Colony), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, using in-situ upgrading. Although there have been massive investments in terms of national programs such as JNNURM, RAY and PMAY, there have been implementation failures regarding informal settlement redevelopment in India like failure to properly involve the local communities and the displacement. The settlements in Kerala are characterized by unique features, such as smaller spatial procedures, decentralized governance, strong community institutions, such as Kudumbashree, which require specific approaches to these issues. Rajaji Nagar experiences intensive density (400+ persons/hectare), poor infrastructure, frequent floods, insecure tenure, and social economic marginalization.