Neethu P S

LA4011

Bridging Communities Across Land and River:The project aims to overcome the visual, physical, and psychological barriers that currently divide the Old Calico Mills Riverfront site in Jamalpur, Ahmedabad. It seeks to create a significant and meaningful connection between the land and the river, restoring the lost bond that has hindered community engagement with the riverfront. Upon careful observation of the site, it is evident that residents face obstacles in fully accessing and enjoying the riverfront. Historical monuments, once positioned along the banks of the Sabarmati, are now enclosed within walls, forming both physical and visual barriers. Additionally, limited pedestrian and vehicular access from the riverfront road to the community exacerbates the disconnection between the land and the river. Despite the riverfront walkway being underutilized, observations indicate that children tend to stick to specific areas, avoiding the river. This behavior suggests the presence of unidentified barriers preventing direct engagement with the river. Addressing the lack of community gathering space, the project proposes creating an exclusive area within the community for residents to enjoy. This shift from a feeling of exclusion to ownership, with public access granted only by community approval, forms the project's core concept. Recognizing and tackling these barriers is essential to restoring the connection between the community and the riverfront environment. The project aims to dissolve these existing barriers, enabling seamless integration and nurturing a renewed sense of belonging between the community and the natural landscape of the riverfront.