Vachhani Urvi Sureshbhai

LA4004

Located along the southern edge of the Gulf of Kachchh, the Marine National Park in Jamnagar encompasses a vast intertidal zone that supports a rich diversity of marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and mudflats. This ecological wealth led to the area’s designation as a Marine Sanctuary in 1980, with parts later upgraded to a Marine National Park in 1982. However, the region’s strategic location and strong international connectivity have also made it a hub for industrial activities such as oil refining, shipping, and salt production. These developments have placed increasing pressure on the fragile marine environment, resulting in habitat degradation, mangrove loss, and water pollution. In response, the Living Shores project proposes an eco-sensitive design that incorporates a multi-layered water drainage system. This system integrates natural catchments, mangrove buffers, and water-sensitive urban infrastructure to restore ecosystems, regulate runoff, and promote a resilient, sustainable coastal landscape that balances ecological preservation with economic development.