Kulkarni Vedika Prashant

UP4002-1

This study investigates the 1 sq. km precinct of Rakhial, Ahmedabad, focusing on its transformation from an industrial hub to a mixed-use area with residential and commercial zones. Historically shaped by the rise and fall of textile mills and recent urban developments like the Narol-Naroda Highway and BRTS, Rakhial reflects diverse socio-economic dynamics. The land use remains predominantly industrial, with 17% residential zones, supported by limited but evolving transport options such as BRTS and shared autos. Challenges in walkability, waterlogging, and waste management highlight gaps in urban infrastructure. Housing typologies range from chawls for EWS to bungalows for HIG, with transport and proximity influencing affordability and quality of life. The public realm features vibrant street livelihoods but limited open spaces. Constraints like job location, education access, and affordability underline socio-economic disparities. Rakhial exemplifies a precinct in transition, balancing industrial heritage with emerging urban aspirations and the need for improved infrastructure.