Barot Deep Vimalbhai

UP4002-4

Gomtipur - Monuments to Metro

Gomtipur, a historic precinct in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a vibrant area showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modern urban life. Known for its chawls, row houses, and apartments, Gomtipur reflects a mix of tradition and modernity. The streets are lively with vendors, temples, and bustling markets, embodying the neighborhood's dynamic spirit. Despite challenges like waterlogging and encroachments, the area offers a strong sense of community. Its proximity to public transport, including the metro and AMTS, enhances connectivity. Gomtipur’s rich history, diverse population, and evolving urban landscape make it a vital part of Ahmedabad’s cultural and economic fabric.


Report Content

Gomtipur, located in eastern Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a dynamic area that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern development. Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, it is home to iconic landmarks such as the Jhulta Minara (Shaking Minarets) and Mariyam Bibi Masjid. The area's connectivity has been significantly enhanced by the Apparel Park Metro Station, making it an important hub for both historical and industrial activity. Situated just 3 kilometers from the city center, Gomtipur is well-connected to key transportation points, with the airport 13 kilometers away, the railway station 3 kilometers away, and the bus station 4 kilometers away. Major landmarks in the vicinity include the Apparel Park, BPCL Petrol Pump, Jhulta Minara, and Sukharam Nagar Cross Road. Combining its historical significance with industrial growth, Gomtipur stands out as a vibrant part of Ahmedabad's evolving landscape

The streets and walkability of the area, highlighting the significant role of roads in urban life. Roads are categorized into local (49%), sub-arterial (26%), and collector (24%) types, connecting key "roads and nodes." The average block perimeter is 385 meters, with a highest perimeter of 1,478 meters (3 minutes to cross) and a lowest perimeter of 28 meters (23 seconds to cross). Walkability scores reveal challenges, with 44% of the area scoring very poorly and 46% rated as average. Streets are multifunctional, supporting mobility, safety, street vending, and economic activities. However, they also face issues like sidewalk encroachments by vendors, hoardings, and informal settlements, limiting safe pedestrian movement. Despite these challenges, streets are hubs for community and economic interaction. The analysis underscores the need for improved road infrastructure and connectivity to enhance walkability, safety, and the overall quality of urban life.

The land matrices

The built form and typology of the area, highlighting its diverse mix of historical and modern structures. Residential buildings dominate, accounting for 45% of the land use, followed by industrial (25%) and commercial (19%) zones. Housing typologies include apartments, chawls (48%), row houses, and detached homes. Chawls and apartments represent the most common built forms, reflecting the area's socio-economic diversity. Commercial spaces are concentrated in retail (3%) and non-retail sectors (92.9%), while historical buildings, such as those near Jhulta Minara, coexist alongside modern developments. Streets vary in character, with effective Right-of-Way (ROW) adjusted for residential, commercial, and heritage areas. The built environment integrates historical landmarks with functional housing and commercial structures, creating a balanced urban fabric that supports residential, industrial, and retail needs.

The Public Realm.

Public Services, focusing on waterlogging, waste management, and sanitation challenges in the area. Waterlogging is a recurring issue, with depths ranging from up to 5 cm to above 75 cm, often caused by poor drainage, road conditions, and metro tunneling activities. Key locations like Kankaria Lake, Gomtipur, and Malen Saban Lake influence water drainage and management efforts. Waste management systems include vehicles like Chhota Hathi (700 kg capacity) and TATA 407 (1-ton capacity) for garbage collection, but issues persist with improper waste disposal and littering, as highlighted by recurring dumping near garbage bins despite efforts to improve infrastructure. Sanitation workers face challenges such as low wages, lack of training, and poor working conditions, emphasizing the need for fair treatment and support. The slide underscores the need for systemic improvements in public services to address urban challenges.

Interviews

Transportation, focusing on accessibility, walkability, and public transit usage in the area. The connectivity is facilitated by the metro, AMTS (Ahmedabad Municipal Transport Service), BRTS (Bus Rapid Transit System), and IPTS (Intermediate Public Transport System), ensuring diverse mobility options. Walkability scores reveal that 18% of the area is within a 2-minute walking catchment, 25% within 2–5 minutes, and 57% within 5–10 minutes of public transport stops, reflecting decent accessibility. Data from 30 surveys highlight preferences for public transit like the metro and AMTS due to affordability and connectivity, while private vehicles, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers, provide flexibility. Key destinations such as Naroda, Kankaria, and Science City are accessible within varying timeframes. The transportation systems are assessed based on connectivity, accessibility, affordability, and safety, emphasizing the balance between public and private mobility choices.

End term synthesis

End term synthesis