Strategic Ward Plan for Bapunagar- LAKE DEVELOPMENT

Verma Ekta Dayashankar

4500-5

A ward level plan essentially exercises the ability to analyze a neighbourhood in the context of the ward, city and the region in totality. Amongst the 48 wards that fall within the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, Bapunagar (Ward No. 26) was studied for its problems and potential forces that are likely to cause major changes in the near future. This was later carried forward by understanding the problems faced by residents, agreeing upon priorities, formulating agendas and building consensus. Also, these were envisioned and translated into a set of implementable projects, programs and regulations based on consolidated strategies and solutions.

Report Content

Bapunagar lies in the Eastern part of Ahmedabad. It has population density of 586 pph, which is comparatively high as compared to the other wards of Ahmedabad. Out of the 50% of working population, 75% are male and 25% are female.

By understanding the ward through observing and by Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis, the vision derived was to to enhance and retain the ward by keeping it vibrant and connected. To achieve the same, five objectives are formulated.These objectives are further classified into two projects-Lake development project and TOD, which s proposed along BRT. lane.

The most thriving economic activities are the Inscense stick making, the embroidery and stone work, especially in the Old bapunagar area.Women have a major and active role to play. . As we can see from the images above, these activities are done at household level, they use the spill over spaces in front of their houses.

If we look at the numbers, about 68% of the people have their economy based and dependant within Bapunagar itself. Out of this complete working ratio , 25% of the women are employed in these small industries. There are 3000 HHI, 300, Vegetable & fruit vendors, 280 eateries on Narol Naroda Road, BUT there is a great threat for this economy to survive. Wages are too less, whereas the working hours are high. There is a great threat to the health of the women working in the Agarbatti factory.

The lake is situated in the southern part of Bapunagar . It was built by Ahmed Shah as natural lake for preserving water in 14th century. In 1960 converted into Lal Bahadur Shastri stadium by AMC. In 2001 converted again to lake. It names comes from the Malek saban roza which is located in the premises of the Lake, and there is an AMC OHWT. At the entrance we see dense trees. It is an important asset of BAPUNAGAR as it is constitutes of the 15% of the total 18% open space available in the ward.

There is lack of proper work spaces for the household workers. The financial capacity does not seem to go with the potential of the market. This may happen due to the inability to reach the formal sector due to limited set of skills. .The redevelopment of the Malek Saban can act as an economic booster for the ward.

There is a strong need for an open playground.The Malek Saban Lake provides readily for this kind of space demand. There is park already present but is not functioning properly because of lack of its maintenance and inaccessibility.Providing 14000sqm of open playground in the lake premises. Having multiple entry points in the Lake will improve its usability. Access points from the proposed affordable housing scheme is also provided.

The concept of Transit oriented development for Bapunagar is to make it progressive and responsive to the demand and need of the people. The proposed TOD zone lies 200M on either side of the BRT corridor. The proposal by DP 2021 will have a great impact on not only the socio-economic life of the people but also the market land values of the plots under TOD. It can lead to scenario where there is disparity in the development of the ward, and the people may get affected and lead to gentrification.

There is Lack of housing in Bapunagar and majority of people residing in Bapunagar belong to the LIG, the TOD zone acts a strong potential to respond to the same. PROPOSALS- Regulations for private plot owners in TOZ, to provide 30% of FSI, as affordable housing. Providing incentives -in the form of TDR.

The comprehensive plan is the implementation of all the interventions. The interventions broadly categorized into the four themes - Lake development Project, Complete Street Project, Open space Project and Infrastructure.