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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly reshaped urban life, particularly in enclosed public spaces such as shopping malls, which serve as critical hubs for social interaction, commerce, and leisure in India. This systematic literature review examines the multifaceted impacts of pandemics on shopping malls, focusing on social, economic, and environmental dimensions within the Indian context. We synthesize existing research to identify key trends, challenges, and adaptations observed during and after the pandemic, addressing shifts in consumer behavior, industry-specific disruptions, and the role of urban planning in mitigating risks. The review adopts a structured approach to analyze peer-reviewed studies, policy documents, and industry reports, employing thematic analysis to distill patterns and gaps in the literature. Findings reveal that the pandemic accelerated digital transformation in retail, altered consumer preferences toward safety and convenience, and exposed vulnerabilities in supply chains and workforce dynamics. Social distancing measures and hygiene protocols redefined mall operations, while urban design considerations gained prominence to ensure safer public spaces. Economically, the retail sector faced severe contractions, yet adaptive strategies such as omnichannel retailing and localized sourcing emerged as resilient responses. Environmentally, reduced foot traffic temporarily lowered energy consumption but also highlighted the need for sustainable practices in mall management. The study concludes with recommendations for policymakers and mall operators to foster inclusive, sustainable, and crisis-resilient retail environments, emphasizing the interplay between public health, urban infrastructure, and economic recovery.