Revival of Ecological-Cultural landscape | Designed Ecologies | MLA | CEPT University

LA4004_Designed Ecologies Spring’23 Mugdha V. Ganurde_PLA22207

Revival of Ecological - Cultural Landscape Tapovan | Nashik

- The Coexistence of Nature and Culture -

CONTENTS Studio Brief: With increasing urbanisation, there have been pressures on the existing natural processes. Due to this phenomenon, there are conflicts areas that are often highly stressed pockets which require an in-depth and empathetic approach.

Such areas are causing ecological disruption and affecting social constructs. It is the need of the hour to propose paradigms of designed ecologies to rebuild, support, and recollect gradually fragmenting land mosaics.

These devised ecosystems take time to evolve and are often the outcome of multiple interactions that are dynamic in nature, operating over multiple scales across socio-economic and physiological processes. The resilience of a city - the degree to which change is acceptable before reorganization to create a new set of structures - is highly dependent on these interactions.

The studio allows for self-exploratory research which gives foundation to the proposal, as well as explores design strategies to implement the research outcomes.

2

Introduction : 1. Introduction to City 2. Cultural-Religious significance 3. Kumbh mela 4. Introduction to Tapovan Area

05 06 08 10 12

Site Documentation & Analysis : 1. Site significance and selection 2. Site context 3. Site analysis - Sadhugram area 4. Site analysis 5. Site sections 6. Flora and Fauna mapping 7. Activity mapping

15 16 18 20 23 26 28 30

Conceptual exploration : 1. S.W.O.T analysis 2. Site synthesis 3. Program brief 4. Conceptual zoning 5. Ecological strategies 6. Vision

33 34 35 38 39 40 42

Crafting the landscape : 1. Master plan 2. Site sections 3. Detailed area views 4. Productive Landscape 5. Proposal for vacant land 6. Conclusion

45 46 48 50 58 60 62

Annexure : 1. Case studies 2. Readings 3. Seminar 4. Site visits 5. Workshops

67 68 72 80 100 103 3

PROJECT BRIEF The project aims to revitalize a neglected piece of land that holds significant ecological and cultural value. The site has a rich history of culture, mythology, and religion, and was formerly part of a forest and agricultural fields, indicating that it contains rich soil. The site is ecologically rich with two rivers flowing along it, providing a rich riparian zone with much of the extant native flora. However, the site was left barren for years and was overgrazed and underutilized, allowing alien plant species to proliferate. During the Kumbh Mela festival, a tented city was built there without taking into account the natural aspects of the land. Trees were chopped down, concrete plinths were built, and the earth was disturbed, leading to several issues such as soil erosion, river silting, and the direct dumping of garbage on land and in water.

The project aims to create a harmonious coexistence between ecological and cultural values by enhancing the ecological and cultural value of the site and optimizing its usage. The design will respect and celebrate the natural environment and cultural heritage of the place, recognizing that they are not mutually exclusive but rather interdependent. The project will preserve the ecological value of the site using sustainable design practices such as using existing vegetation, topography, water bodies, and inviting the local fauna. The cultural value of the site will be enhanced by designing eco-cultural trails and exhibits and integrating the existing ghats and temples into the design. The design will celebrate the unique character of the site, promoting sustainability and meaningful experiences for visitors, creating an eco-cultural tourism site. The project will help in uplifting the neglected value of the land, and serve as a model for reviving neglected lands with significant ecological and cultural value.

Source : https://www.midjourney.com/home

4

1.

INTRODUCTION: 5

Introduction to city

Location

Climate analysis Temperature

Fig.4.

Pandav leni

Fig.5.

Brahmagiri hill and Godavari spring

Fig.6.

Ram,Laxman&Sita statue in Tapovan

Fig.1.

The hot season lasts for 2.5 months, with an average daily high temperature above 34⁰C. The hottest month is May. The cool season lasts for 2.8 months, with an average daily high temperature below 29⁰C. The the coldest month is January, with an average low of 12⁰C and a high of 30⁰C.

India map

Rainfall and Precipitation

Maharashtra map Fig.2.

The rainy period of the year lasts for 6.2 months, from May 9 to November 16,with an average rainfall of 14.6 inches.and with an average of 20.1 days with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation.

Wind rose diagram

Nashik city map Nashik is a city located in the state of Maharashtra, India, on the banks of the Godavari River .The city is surrounded with mountain range The weather is cool and pleasant, The city also has many religious and historical places having mythological and religious beliefs.

6

Nashik city is surrounded by the lush green Sahyadri mountain range situated on the banks of a river Godavari, Sahyadri range stretches from north to south across the western portion of the district. The Godavari originates from the Brahmagiri Mountain, in Trimbakeshwar which is about 24 km from Nashik and flows through the old residential settlement, flows into the city of Nashik.

Fig.3.

The windier part of the year lasts for 3.6 months, with average wind speeds of more than 10.4 miles per hour. The windiest month is July. The calmer time of year lasts for 8.4 months,with calmest Fig.7. month is October, with an average hourly wind speed of 6.3 miles per hour.

Ramkund 7

Cultural - Religious Significance

Religiously important spaces in Nashik

The significance of Nashik city in Hindu mythology, highlighting its temples such as Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga temple, Kalaram Temple, Kapaleshwar Temple.

Sundar Narayan temple Kapaleshwar temple

The city’s culture is centered around the Godavari River and its ghats, which host religious events like the Kumbh Snan during the Kumbh Mela.

Ramkund & Godavari ghats Kalaram temple Panchvati Naroshankar temple

Nashik, previously called Panchavati, is also known as the place where Lord Rama, Sita, and Laxman spent their exile.

Godavari ghats

Swami-narayan temple Goda park

Laxminarayan temple Laxmji temple Sarv dharm temple

The Godavari River is considered a sacred water body, and people believe that bathing in its waters can cleanse them of their sins.

Ghats

Map of religious places in Nashik

Ramkund

Ghats

extension

Tapovan

Temples of Nashik

Fig.8.

Fig.9.

Fig.10.

Fig.11.

Fig.12.

Fig.13.

Fig.14.

Fig.15.

Fig.16.

Fig.17.

Sundar-Narayan temple

Nashik is a significant city with a rich cultural and religious history, making it a popular tourist destination for Hindus. The Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the 12 jyotirlinga, and several other temples are located in Nashik, which is renowned as a spiritual destination.

Nashik is also described in Hindu mythology as a location where Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Laxman stayed during their 14-year exile 8

Godavri ghats Fig.14.

Kapaleshwar temple

Naroshankar temple

Panchvati area

Laxmi Narayan temple

Kalaram temple

Sarva dharma temple

Swaminarayan temple

Trimbakeshwar temple 9

Kumbh Mela festival

Nashik during Kumbh Mela

Fig.18.

People taking a dip in kund at the Trimbakeshwar

Fig.19.

Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage festival for Hindus, and it is held every 12 years in Nashik, Maharashtra.

Procession by the Sadhus,post flag hoisting ceremony

It is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva and is considered to be one of the most sacred places for Hindus.

It is believed that taking a dip in the Godavari River during the Kumbh Mela and offering prayers at the Trimbakeshwar Temple can wash away all sins and bring salvation.

The Kumbh Mela in Nashik, therefore, holds great spiritual and religious significance for millions of people, and the Trimbakeshwar Temple is an integral part of this celebration.

Fig.20.

Pilgrims taking dip in Godavari at Ramkund Fig.22.

Night view at Godavari ghats

The festival is a spectacle of colors, music, and devotion, and it is an unforgettable experience for those who attend.

It is held over a period of one month, and during this time, the city is transformed into a tented city to accommodate the millions of pilgrims who come to participate in the festival. In 2015, Tapovan area was converted into tented city for the sages and pilgrims to stay 10

Fig.21.

Pooja performed during the festival

Nashik, a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is widely known as a spiritual hub with many pilgrimage sites and temples, One of the most significant events that take place in Nashik is the Kumbh Mela, a Hindu pilgrimage and festival that attracts millions of people from all over the world.

The Kumbh Mela in Nashik is a massive event that takes place once every 12 years, with the last festival being held in 2015. During the festival, the city is transformed into a temporary tent city, with thousands of tents and temporary shelters set up to accommodate the massive influx of pilgrims. The festival is known for its elaborate processions, ritual bathing in the Godavari River, and religious ceremonies and performances.

11

Introduction to Tapovan area

Location

Nashik city map

Tapovan is located along the banks of the Godavari River, one of India’s holiest rivers and a place of great religious significance. Tapovan literally translates to “forest of meditation.”

Eidetic photo montage

R E I N C A R N A T I O N

12

D Y I N G

L A N D

Tapovan area

Godavari-Kapila river confluence

Godavari river

Ramshurshti udyan

Tapovan caves

It was believed that sages used to visit this location to meditate in the past and that it was a part of the Dandakaranya forest.

There are other temples nearby that have been constructed with ghats and recreational space for the public.

O F

Vintage | Devotional | Shattered | Decimate | Hope

I N T E N T

Shri. Laxmiji temple

Lord Ram , Laxman Sita statue

The montage shows a glimpse of Nashik city in the past. Since the area is extremely rich, it has been left untouched, thus there was still hope for its restoration and ecology. Also the city and place holds a huge religious and cultural value which attracts huge number of pilgrims to the city 13

Source : Author

14

2.

SITE DOCUMENTATION & ANALYSIS 15

Site Significance

A

journey

through

the

Nahik’s

In Nashik's ancient city, divine abode is found, Trimbakeshwar resides on Brahmagiri's ground, From his peak, Godavari flows, so serene, A river so sacred, forever to gleam.

sacred

tale

Site area selection

In Nashik's heart, Panchvati stands, Where Rama and Sita held hands, Beneath the banyan trees so grand, A symbol of love, that forever will stand.

In Nashik's land, a tale of Lord Ram is told, His exile with Sita, and Laxman so bold, Wandering in Tapovan's forest, their fate unfold, A story so timeless, forever to hold.

Of Laxman's sword and Shurpanakha's nose, The tale that Nashik forever knows, A legend that lingers, through the ages, An inseparable part of the city's pages.

In Sanskrit, 'nashika' means the nose, A symbol of pride, a tale that glows, A city so devout, its faith so pure, In every shrine and air, its divinity so sure.

Nashik's Kumbh Mela, a grand celebration, Brings souls together, in divine congregation, Every twelve years, the city comes alive, With pilgrims from afar, in faith to thrive.

The area has a significant cultural, mythical, and religious history in addition to being ecologically rich due to the fact that it was formerly part of a forest and had agricultural fields, indicating that it contains rich soil.

Two rivers flow along the site, providing it a rich riparian zone with much of the extant native flora.

As a result, it must be preserved to maintain its ecological and cultural value.

16

The river's sacred waters, a connection to divine, In Nashik's embrace, forever to entwine, Ramkund's ghats, so serene and true, A symbol of faith, for eternity to renew.

In Nashik's embrace, spirituality so prime, A city of piety, with faith in time, A connection to the divine, forever to bind, In Nashik's sacred waters, significance to

- Watershed boundary - Site boundary

- Watershed 1 - Watershed 2

- Watershed 3 - Watershed 4

0 10 20

30

The Sadhugram area, located within the Tapovan region in Nashik, holds immense cultural significance due to its rich history and religious importance. The site was carefully chosen by considering the watershed area and the surrounding land, which is situated next to two rivers, the Godavari and the Kapila. This location provides fertile soil and a rich riparian zone with a diverse range of native flora.

Despite its significant cultural and ecological value, the site is currently neglected and underutilized. Therefore, efforts should be made to restore and preserve the site to fully realize its cultural and ecological potential.The site boundary is considered as there are few physical and nature barriers i.e. the river edge and constructed road 17

Site Documentation Mumbai - Agra highway

1750

A

Shri. Hanumanji temple festival

1500

Kapila river Tapovan road

1250

B

Ghats 1000 D

750

Shri Laxminarayan C temple.

Godavri river Shri. Laxmanji temple Sarv dharma temple Ramshrushti udyan Ghats

A

E

500

B

C

Godavari river

The site has a huge religious significance as many temples are there in the vicinity .

Sewage treatment plant

250

D

Kapila river

Also looking at number of the visitors a recreational park and ghats have been constructed .

The site is easy to access and it also well connected too city and ramkund area .

- River

People from the city as well as tourist visit this place

- Agricultural fields

18

250

500

750

- Temples

- Existing vegetation

1000

1250

1500

- Primary roads

1750

- Secondary roads

2000

2250

- Sadhugram outline - Site outline

2500 E

0 10 20

30

Solid collection plant

19

Site Analysis - Sadhugram area

Slope map

Site area - 60 acres

Location

Most of the area is having a gradual slope, where as we can find a steep slope near the river edge. These steep edges are on the south side and east side which are no build-able areas.

1750

Towards Agra

1500 Tow

ard

sA

ura

nga

bad

1250

1000

750

500 Towards Mumbai

- Sadhugram outline

- Site outline

250 0 10 20

Legend

30

Land-use map

250

500

750

1000

1250

1500

1750

2000

2250

2500

Elevation map

- < = 2% - 2%-5%

- 5%-10% - 10%-33%

- > 33% 0 10 20

30

As the site is located at the river edge it has a lower elevation as compared to the rest of the city. The highest elevation point is 590m. The lowest elevation point is 555m. The site has a considerable elevation difference of 35 m.

1750

1500

1250

1000

750

The site under sadhugram area .

The site is steep sloping near the south and east side of the Godavadri river and a gradual slope .

The site elevation ranges from 590 m to 555m.

The site under is larger watershed area being on lower elevation and 3 main streams follow and join into the river.

20

500 - Residential - Industrial

- Recreational - Public utility

- Public(Sadhugram) - River

0 10 20

30

The location of the site is in a public and recreational area close to a river. The public space includes some farmland, while some sections are designated especially for the 2015 Kumbh Mela (celebrated after every 12 years).

250

Legend 250

500

750

1000

1250

1500

1750

2000

2250

2500

- < = 555 - 550-560 - 560-565

- 565-570 - 570-575 - 575-580

- 580-585 - 585-590 - = > 590

0 10 20

21

30

Site Analysis

Watershed and Drain age channels

1500

Three main streams enter the river Godavari at this location because it is at the lowest point in the city and another river joins it.

1250

1000

Site Accessibility

There are four major watershed areas present on the site, with the largest one being situated where the site is located. Moreover, this area also happens to be the lowest point of the city.

2

1750

Site area - 8 acres

Watershed 2 Watershed 1 3

750

2

500

Legend 250

- Minor Watershed boundary

Watershed 4 Watershed 3 250

3

4 500

750

1000

1250

1500

1750

2000

2250

2500

- Larger watershed boundary - Channel - Watershed 1 - Watershed 3 - Watershed 4 - Watershed 2

0 10 20

30

The site has easy accessibility due to well connected road networks The site is gradually sloping between 0%-10% gradient , sloping towards the river The elevation difference between is of 22m considering the lowest point in river.

Three main streams entering the river and two water shed are considered There is a strong smell of religious waste that is being dumped into the water and land, which suggests a negative environmental impact. On the other hand, there are the pleasant sounds of bird chirping and a river that provides good vantage points, which suggests a more positive aspect of the location.

22

Legend

- Vehicular movement - Pedestrian movement

0 10 20

30

The site is easily accessible from the internal roads of the Tapovan region, which are connected to the Lakshman Narayan Setu Bridge. Moreover, one coming from an outstation can quickly reach the site as it is well-connected to both the Mumbai-Agra highway and the Aurangabad road.

23

Site Analysis Slope analysis

Legend - < = 2% - 2%-5%

- 5%-10% - 10%-33%

Elevation map

- > 33% 0 10 20

30

There is a steep gradient near the river's edge. The moderate slopes with gradients of 0% to 2% or 2% to 5% are appropriate for developing plantations, prefabricated structures, and roads. If the slope is between 5% and 10%, it is suitable for constructing roads with terrace planting. The area with a slope between 10% and 33% is largely situated along the river's edge, where the terrain is exceedingly steep and unsuitable for building.

24

Legend - < = 555 - 550-560

- 560-565 - 565-570

Hydrology map

- 570-575 - 575-580

- 580-585 - 585-590

- = > 590 0 10 20

30

The highest elevation point is 577m. The lowest elevation point is 555m. The site has a considerable elevation difference of 22m. The lowest point is near the river and gradually increases.

Legend - Drainage channel - Ridges

Sensory mapping

- Valley - Watershed 1

- Watershed 2 0 10 20

30

Three main streams enter the river This section is considering two watershed areas.

Legend Garbage smell Polluted river

Vantage points Unpleasant views

Birds sound Prayer sound

Vehicle sound 0 10 20

30

There is a prominent smell of garbage. In contrast, the sounds of prayers and birds can be heard during the early morning and late evening, while the sound of vehicles more prominent during the day.

There are vantage points that offer a view of the river, but there are also slums and garbage dumps in the vicinity.

25

Site Sections

Elevation

570m

560m

Distance in Km Section A-A

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1.0

1.1

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9

1.0

1.1

1.2

Elevation

570m 560m

Distance in km Section B-B

A

Elevation

570m

C

560m

Distance in km Section C-C

0.1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

B

B

A C

The has a steep slope on other sides of the river,and not much of the vegetation is observed on the site 26

Key plan

27

Flora and Fauna

Vegetation map

Change in vegetation

Deciduous Teak Forest types intermediate between Dry and moist (Series- Tectona Terminalia-Adina-Anogeissus)

List of few species found on site

Fig.32.

Year: 2005 Agricultural fields,Lesser plantations , Black fertile soil.

Fig.23.

Azadirachta indica ( Neem tree )

Fig.24.

Ficus benghalensis ( Banyan tree )

Fig.25.

Mangifera indica ( Mango tree )

Fig.33.

Fig.26.

Tectona Grandis ( Teak tree )

The site is situated in an area with a wide range of native flora and fauna species. Trees such as Azadirachta indica, Mangifera indica, Butea monosperma, and Jasminum sambac are prevalent across the site.

The Tapovan region, where the site is located, was once a forest reserved for austerities or spiritual practices. The site features dense tree groves that are remnants of the original forest.

Fig.27.

Dendrocalamus strictus (Bamboo)

Fig.28.

Ficus racemose ( Fig tree )

Fig.34.

Fig.29.

0 10 20

Fauna

30

Pontederia crassipes (Water hyacinth)

Fig.30.

Prosopis Juliflora (Junglee kikar)

Fig.31.

Lantana camara (Latana shrub)

Avifauna

The steep slope of the site has significant tree growth.

The site area is home to invasive species such as Lantana camara and Prosophis and water Hyacinths as the quality of water and land has been neglected over years.

Few of the native bird species are observed during the early morning and evening time 28

Year: 2015 Agricultural fields rented,Trees were felled,Temporary tent

Fig.35.

Treron phoenicopterus (Yellow-footed Green-pigeon)

Fig.36.

Spilopelia senegalensis (Laughing dove)

Fig.37.

Eudynamys scolopaceus (Asian Koel)

Fig.38.

Dicrurus macrocercus (Black drongo)

Fig.39.

Ficedula parva (Red breasted Flycatcher)

Year: 2022 Abandoned land ,Construction debris dump. Growth of invasive species Animals Felis Pardus (Panther), Canis pallipes (Wolf), Hyaena Striata (Hyaena), Rusa aristotelis (Stag), Cervulus aureus (Barking deer ), Antelope Cervicapra (Blackbuck) Reptiles Uropeltis macrolepis (Bombay Earth snake), Python molurus (Indian python), Elaphe helena (common trinket snake), Naja naja (Indian Cobra), Daboia russelii (Russell's viper) .

29

Activity Mapping

Density on site - Weekdays , Weekends , Festivals

Prominent activities on site People on ghats

Temple visitors

Ramshrushti udyan

During kumbh mela

Woodlands

Observation : WEEKDAYS During weekdays, the neighborhood seems calm and peaceful, with locals visiting for their morning exercises and walks. There is not much foot traffic to the nearby temples, and by early afternoon, only local vendors and shop owners remain.In the evenings, only a few locals and visitors arrive to visit the temples or stroll around the park and ghats.

Site Sections

WEEKENDS On weekends, a large number of people visit the location, particularly the ghats and recreational park, where children can be seen having fun. Visitors from outside the area also come to see the temples and ghats. The evenings tend to be busier, with people also coming to the woodlands in the early morning for bird watching and to see the shrine.

FESTIVALS During festivals, there is a lot of movement by pilgrims and people from various age groups. The Kumbh Mela, which occurs once every 12 years, attracts sages and monks from all over the world, with millions of them attending and camping behind the temple in a designated space called 'Sadhugram.' This makes the ghats more popular with tourists than with locals and puts a lot of religious pressure on the location. During festivals, the number of people visiting the ghats increases.

30

The Ghats attract visitors who come to bathe in the Godavari river, while others come to relax on the Ghats and interact with local vendors. The Ramshrushti Udyan offers a variety of activities such as jogging, running, walking, and a designated play area for children. Visitors can also enjoy the greenery and birdwatching in the leisure area. Also people visit the temples in the vicinity.

Density of people during Weekdays and Weekends

Density of peopleActivities during Festive seasons

- Weekdays - Weekends - Festivals

Temple

STP

Tents

Ghats

Park

0 10 20

30

- River

- Site boundary

- Primary roads

- Agricultural fields

- Existing vegetation

- Secondary roads 31

Source : Author

32

3.

CONCEPTUAL EXPLORATIONS 33

SWOT Analysis

Strengths Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

The site holds high cultural and religious value, especially during Kumbh Mela.

It has a gentle slope that facilitates the installation of pathways, tree plantations,and other features.

Existing vegetation is already present in the area.

A large watershed is also located near the site.

Major roads run beside the site due to its proximity to a city.

This makes the site easily accessible to visitors during Kumbh Mela

Site synthesis

Existing site conditions

Weakness Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Easy accessibility

The riparian edge built into ghats Land unoccupied since the Kumbh Mela.

There is an improper management of waste as evidenced by the smell of STP water and religious trash.

The river is polluted as water hyacinths grown in it.

River waste from the city is flowing through it, giving forth a pungent odour.

Vehicular sound Existing trees Easy accessibility

Opportunities Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Site’s utilisation and environmental management present both possibilities and problems.

Despite having a significant watershed, existing vegetation, and high cultural and religious value, the site is hampered by problems like exposed ghats, inadequate visitor numbers, vacant land that encourages the growth of invasive species, and poor waste management.

However, there are potential solutions that can be used to address these issues and improve the site’s environmental sustainability and cultural significance, including preserving existing vegetation, using open spaces for exhibitions and plantations, and introducing new vegetation.

Creating a comprehensive strategy that balances the site’s cultural and environmental concerns, promotes sustainable practises, and enhances visitor experiences will be crucial overall.

34

River restoration Regulating the surface flow via check dams, water bunds, and bio-swales The presence of greenery may attract migratory birds.

Restoration of the riparian areas Eco - cultural tourism that restores both the environment and culture Restoring life to the barren land Ramayana's mythological tale being recreated

Threats Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Existing slums Individuals cleaning cloths Religious trash being thrown into water and land causing water & land pollution Excess grazing Land has been abandoned.

Vegetation removal and spread of invasive species

Opportunities on site

preserving existing trees

Bird’s Chirping

Dense vegetation

Vehicular sound

Easy accessibility

Grassland and tree plantation

Vacant land

Growth of invasive species Dense vegetation Existing trees Bird’s Chirping Garbage smell Huge space for Ghats not recreation included in design Ghats exposed to sun Grow of hyacinths

0 10 20

preserving existing trees

Diving the recreation space

Including ghats in design

30

The site has a number of issues, including the fact that the ghats are exposed to the sun and that there aren’t many people there.

Additionally, after the Kumbh mela, a large area of land was left vacant, which allowed invasive species to flourish. However, there are also many trees on the site and a sizable recreational area that is currently inadequately utilised.

0 10 20

30

Site is referring to is facing a number of challenges related to environmental management and utilization of space. Here are some potential solutions to the issues Preserving the existing vegetation, utilizing the open space have exhibition areas, plantation on ghats which can provide shade , grasslands and also introducing vegetation.

35

Site synthesis

Site issues

Tented plan (12th year)

Conceptual tented plan (12th plan)

STP pipes passing through the site Construction debris and Soil dumps

Vacant land & invasive species

Religious waste released in river

Growth of water hyacinths

Huge footfall on site during festivals 0 10 20

Numerous infrastructure, waste management, and environmental sustainability issues are present at the site. STP pipelines going through the site, dumping for building waste and dirt, and unoccupied space that encourages the spread of exotic species are all problems that need to be handled. In addition, the spread of water hyacinths and the disposal of religious debris into the river contribute to environmental degradation and water pollution 36

Inferences : Ä Agricultural lands turned into tented city Ä Neglected vegetation for erection of tents Ä Neglected contours

30

0 10 20

30

Proposal : Ä Considering the contours,existing vegetation,and temples. Ä Most of the tents are placed along the contours and grassland so that the area can be cleared out.

37

Program Brief

Designing Program brief ZONE

Conceptual zoning ECOLOGY ZONE

Ecological sensitive zone

ACTIVITIES

Bird watching

SPACES

Riparian edge

Pause points

View decks

Vacant land

Learning area

Bird watching points

ZONE

Trails

CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE ACTIVITIES

Temple

Learning area

Religious trails

Ghats

Bathing / Holy dip

Improving ghats

Holy river

Religious gathering

Space for religious talks

ZONE

Amphitheater

Vegetation buffer

SPACES

Permanent tent area

Considering the riparian edge

ACTIVE RECREATIONAL ZONE ACTIVITIES

SPACES

Exercise

Yoga & Meditation zone

Recreation area

Learning

Children's play area

Children park

Performances

Gardens

Protecting the existing vegetation

Constructing check dams

Play area Experiential trails Program: 1. Educational and religious trails: Develop trails that showcase the cultural and religious significance of the area, including the Ramayana tale.

Trails Grasslands Permanent tent area

2. Open gathering area: Design a central open space for people to gather and participate in cultural events and festivals.

Vegetation buffer Preserving existing vegetation

3. Open exhibition spaces: Create open exhibition spaces that showcase the cultural significance of the area, including art, crafts, and literature.

There are numerous issues on site that are faced by the site.

While developing the tented plan for 2015’s kumbh mela the agricultural field were rented out , whereas while developing these tents the vegetation was consider and trees were felled and later the land was left vacant over post that 38

Religious trails Recreational park

4. Reconsideration of ghats and park in design: Redesign the ghats and park to provide a cleaner and greener environment, enhancing the visual appeal of the area while preserving its ecological value.

Plantation on ghats

5. Experiential trails: Create experiential trails for visitors, including meditation and yoga zones, to promote health and well-being.

6. Retention of amphitheater, ghats, and temple: Retain the existing amphitheater, ghats, and temple as they hold significant cultural and religious importance.

0 10 20

30 39

Ecological strategies

Ecological strategies

Riparian restoration : Restoring the vegetation along the banks of streams and rivers, stabilize the banks, reduce erosion, and provide important habitats for wildlife. This can be achieved through practices such as planting native trees and shrubs, controlling invasive species, and reducing livestock grazing.

Ecological strategies

Developing riparian edge

Bio-swales Overflow drain Native species

Bioswales: Manage stormwater runoff , improve water quality,reduce flooding, recharge ground water The plants and soil in the bioswale act as a filter, removing pollutants and contaminants from the water before it enters the groundwater or nearby water bodies.

Raingardens: Absorb and filter and is effective in managing storm water runoff by capturing and filtering rainwater .

They improve the quality of water,control erosion, attracts birds, butterflies, and other pollinators, to the native plants planted in garden improving the ecosystem.

Top soil Mulch

Rain garden

Check dams

Check dams: Include vegetation planting, terracing, and helps in reducing water flow velocity, check dams help to improving water quality and reducing the risk of flooding and also helps in controlling the soil erosion .The sediments are trapped behind the dams and let cleaner water to move ahead .

Reintroducing native plant : Restore the balance of the ecosystem This can be done through the reintroduction of locally extinct species or the reinforcement of existing populations. Controlling the growth of invasive species keeping a track on it. Requiring less water and lower maintenance, requires less water than non-native species, stronger root system which can help in holding the soil and have less soil erosion.

Ecotourism It can benefit the environment by helping local communities and governments to protect and conserve natural resources,can help educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices, it can provide opportunities for scientists and researchers to study and monitor ecosystems

Riparian restoration, bioswales, check dams, and the reintroduction of native plants are all potential solutions that can help to restore the balance of the ecosystem.

Other strategies :

Additionally, ecotourism can benefit the environment by promoting conservation and sustainable practices and providing income and employment opportunities for local communities. By implementing these solutions, it is possible to protect and conserve natural resources while also promoting economic development and environmental education.

• • • • • • •

40

Plantation of Native specie Invasive species

Eco - tourism

Native species

• Urban Forestry Habitat Restoration • Sustainable Agriculture Soil Conservation • Natural Resource Controlled livestock grazing Accounting Permeable Pavemen • Green Roofs and Walls Community-Based Conservation Natural Building Community Engagement and Education • • Green Infrastructure: Regenerative Agriculture 41

Vision

Initial sketches

Vision statement Envisioning a space where cultural heritage and environmental sustainability coexists , by uplifting the ecological and cultural value of the land and maximizing it's use which is now left vacant B R I D G I N G

The proper utilization of barren land with significant religious value can be an opportunity to showcase how nature and culture can coexist harmoniously while reviving the land and addressing environmental issues.

It highlights the potential for a sustainable future that balances human needs with the needs of the natural world.

42

Exploring forest trails & bird watching area

Grassland trails

Permanent tented area

Meditation and Yoga zone

Plantation on ghat areas

Recreational space and children’s play area

T H E

P A S T

A N D

F U T U R E

E c o lo g y | C u lt u r a l | R e - e s t a b lis h in g | T r a n s p o s e 43

Source : Author

44

4.

CRAFTING THE LANDSCAPE 45

Master Plans The concept for developing the site is to create a harmonious coexistence between ecological and cultural value , recognizing the importance of both the aspects and integrating them seamlessly into the design .

The site is developed with holistic approach that respects and celebrates the natural environment and cultural heritage of the place, recognizing that they are not mutually exclusive but rather interdependent .

The design will celebrate the unique character of the site promoting sustainability and meaning experiences for visitors creating a eco-cutural tourism and thus it will help in uplifting the neglected value of the land

20 800

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Legend

- River - Existing trees - Existing temples - Primary road - Secondary road - Pedestrian walkway - Electric vehicle way - Visitors tents - Sages tents - Service tents

23 Kapila river

24

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Godavari river 00

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Parking area 2.

Electric vehicle stand 3.

Amphitheater 4.

Recreational park 5.

Open exhibition area 6.

Ghats 7.

Temple area 8.

Yoga zone 9.

Service area 10. Permanent Tents for visitors 11. Permanent Tents for sages 12. Panchavati 13. Grassland trail 14. Nature's trail 15. Mediation zone 16. Flower trail 17. Recreation trail 18. Boardwalk 19. Bamboo trail 20. Riparian plantation 21. Check dams 22. Plant buffers 23. Kapila river 24. Confluence of rivers 25. Godavari river

20

21

Ecological value of the site will be preserved using sustainable design practices such as using existing vegetation, topography , water bodies and to invite the local fauna as well enhancing the ecological resilience of the site where as with respect to cultural a thoughtful design of having eco-cultural trails and exhibit and also integrating the existing ghats and temples into the design where people can enjoy and learn about both environment and cultural the site holds . The ecological features will serve as a backdrop and inspiration for the cultural interpretations and experiences where the cultural elements on the other hand will be designed integrated in a way that it enhances the ecological value of site ,where the same area can be ecologically active for twelve years as well as during Kumbh mela when the tented city is developed .

LEGEND

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Master plan - 12 th year Kumbh Mela

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Elevation (m)

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(Km)

Elevation (m)

SECTION A-A

575 570 565 560 555

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Distance (Km)

Tapovan road

1.0

Elevation (m)

SECTION B-B

575 570 565 560 555

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SECTION C-C

Panchvati area

3.0

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Permanent tent area

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Panchvati area

Service area

Temple area

Open exhibit area

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Ghats

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Kapila river

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Panchvati area

Temple area and ghats

Yoga area and open exhibition area

Key plan

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49

Detailed views

Recreational area and Children’s play area Electric vehicle way

Pedestrian walkway

Children’s play area

Amphitheater

Lawn area

A recreational space with a children’s play area and jogging area that can offer a range of benefits for both people and the environment. The jogging area would be a dedicated space for runners and walkers to exercise in a safe and scenic environment.Incorporating greenery and natural features into the design of the recreational space can have significant benefits. Planting trees and shrubs can help to improve air quality and reduce noise pollution. Creating natural habitats for local wildlife and provide a healthy ecosystem.

50

Ghats area

Key Plan

Godavari river

0 10 20

30

Flower beds

Tree plantation

Ghats

Tree plantation

Electric vehicle way

Adding plantations and flower beds to the ghats can have ecological benefits such as improving biodiversity, enhancing air quality and shade on ghats . Additionally, it can enhance the cultural significance of these sites by beautifying and making them more inviting for visitors, thereby promoting social interaction, cultural exchange, and economic activity. The overall impact of such additions to the ghats can be positive and significant, making it an important consideration for tourism and local commerce.

Open exhibit area

Key Plan

0 10 20

30

51

Open exhibition area Electric vehicle way

Panchavati area Pedestrian walkway

Exhibits

The designed space is an open exhibition area that showcases various episodes from the Ramayana, offering a unique opportunity to experience the cultural and ecological significance of the epic. Visitors can learn about the different characters, stories, and moral lessons associated with the Ramayana and understanding for the rich cultural heritage and traditions the designed space is a unique and enriching experience that offers both cultural and ecological benefits, enhancing the value of the space and contributing to the education and enrichment of visitors.

52

Amla tree (Phyllanthus emblica)

Exhibits

Key Plan

0 10 20

30

Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis)

Ram-Sita Statue

Bel tree (Aegle marmelos)

Ashoka tree (Saraca asoca)

The Panchavati area includes ecological benefits by emphasizing the value of trees and vegetation. The five sacred trees maintain the ecosystem’s general health by providing oxygen, shade, and habitat for surrounding beings. Furthermore, the design reflects the cultural and spiritual significance of the Ramayana, allowing visitors to experience the story in a tangible way. The presence of the sacred trees emphasizes the connection between humans and nature, while the sculpture of Lord Ram and Sita provides a visual representation of the epic and enriches visitors’ appreciation of cultural heritage and traditions.

Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa)

Key Plan

0 10 20

30

53

Riparian edge and flower garden Kapila river

Riparian edge plantation

Meditation and Yoga zone Boardwalk

Siting area

Flower garden

The designed area near the river features a native grass plantation on the riparian edge, along with a flower garden where people can relax and enjoy the scenery. The native grass plantation helps to control soil erosion along the riverbank while also providing habitat for a variety of bird and insect species. The flower garden is an important source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. The designed area provides a space for people to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the river. Visitors can learn about the importance of native plants and their role in supporting local wildlife, promoting a sense of responsibility and respect towards the environment.

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Pedestrian walkway

Key Plan

0 10 20

30

Kapila river

Riparian edge plantation

Meditation deck

Yoga deck

The designed space near the river edge for meditation and yoga provides a tranquil and serene environment for people to practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. The riparian plantation on the edge of the river helps to control soil erosion and provides habitat for a variety of wildlife, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem.

Pedestrian walkway

Key Plan

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30

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Bamboo trail Kapila river

Nature trail Riparian edge plantation

Boardwalk

Siting area

Trail Bamboo plantation

A designed space with a bamboo plantation and a trail within it provides a unique and peaceful setting for people to enjoy and connect with nature. The trail within the bamboo plantation provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about the different species of bamboo and their uses. The bamboo plantation offers a variety of ecological benefits, such as providing, improving air quality,additionally, bamboo is a fast-growing and renewable resource that can be used in a variety of sustainable applications. The dense root system of bamboo helps to prevent soil erosion, bamboo plants absorb more carbon dioxide and release more oxygen into the atmosphere helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

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Pedestrian walkway

Key Plan

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Pedestrian walkway

Grassland

Trail

Existing trees

Open gathering area

Pedestrian walkway

The designed area features trails that wind through existing vegetation, creating pockets of trees that provide shaded areas for visitors to gather and enjoy religious talks and gatherings. The peaceful atmosphere is enhanced by the sounds of birds and a sense of disconnection from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a serene experience for visitors. In addition to the social and cultural benefits, the space has ecological benefits as well. The trees and vegetation help to absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants, improving air quality. They also help to control soil erosion and reduce the risk of flooding. The space can also provide a natural home for a variety of species, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area.

Key Plan

0 10 20

30

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Productive Urban Landscape

Introduction

Productive urban landscapes are simply landscapes that promote 3 simple elements: Food, Ecology, and Community. They are dynamic landscapes that integrate some elements of traditional landscaping but bring in elements of the natural world and plants that provide us with food These types of landscapes can help heal our lands and feed both our bodies and our souls. These landscapes include green roofs, community gardens, and urban farms

Benefits of Productive landscape A productive urban landscape offers numerous benefits for both the environmental and community, making them an important component of sustainable urban development.

Improving air and water quality

Reducing urban heat island effects

Filter storm water runoff

Provide fresh, healthy food

Promote healthier ecosystem

Enhancing aesthetic value of urban areas

Improving Absorbing mental health and well-being pollutants from air and water

Mixed use of land

Possible risks in future

Adaptation of space

Environmental Temperature Drought

Environmental • Irrigation systems • more green houses • Crop rotation

Social Aging of population

• More social infrastructure • More common area • More public open spaces Ecological

• More native plantation • More open spaces • Green roofs • More trees

Economical

Economical • More pasture lands • More fields • More orchards • More community spaces • More gardens

Economic crisis

Resilient space The concept of a productive landscape is an innovative and sustainable approach that aims to integrate various uses, including agriculture, social welfare, and ecological sustainability, into a harmonious space. It addresses the challenges of urban sprawl and ineffective outskirts by promoting productivity and engaging local people in agriculture. In addition, a productive landscape is resilient and easy to adapt to potential future scenarios without being degraded.

Overall, a productive landscape represents an exciting opportunity for sustainable and social responsible urban and rural development that benefits the local people and environment.

58

Plant Nursery

Decrease Water quality

Contribution to climate change

Reduced carbon sequestration

Flooding

Fig.40.

Possible usage of land

Fig.41.

Soil Erosion

Habitat loss

Social

Ecological More people More pollution

Ecological disadvantage of barren land

Fig.42.

Permanent pasture lands

Fig.43.

Plantation of medicinal plants & herbs

Fig.44.

Practice of Floriculture

Fig.45.

Rented farmlands for education purpose 59

Sadhu gram area

Proposal of Productive Landscape

Proposal and strategies Productive landscape

Fig.46.

Tree nursery ,Growing fields Pasture lands

Public space

Ecological landscape

Fig.47.

Playgrounds ,Recreational parks ,Plazas

Fig.48.

Natural parks ,Revitalized rive,Native plantations

Sadhugram Bio-swales

Permeable

Prototype Section

Rainwater

Tented plan-12th year

Cycle tracks

Increase in

Vacant land

Recreational park

Agricultural land

Residential area

0 10 20

Rented

30

After the Kumbh Mela, rented agricultural lands are returned to their owners. However, some parcels of land remain vacant and underutilized for years. To address this issue, these parcels of land can be transformed into a productive landscape. The land can be planned and divided into sections with proposed internal roads that have cycle tracks, bioswales, and permeable paving pathways to help recharge groundwater and prevent soil erosion.

Additionally, some parcels of land can be rented out for agricultural practices, allowing researchers and students to conduct workshops and experiments. This can also help to promote sustainable farming practices and increase local food production.

By utilizing these vacant parcels of land, we can not only benefit the environment by promoting sustainable land use practices, but also provide opportunities for education and economic growth in the community.

60

Permeable paving

Bio-swales

Cycle track

Green pockets

Roads

Rain garden

Green pockets

Permeable paving 61

Conclusion

In conclusion, the proper utilization of barren land that holds significant cultural and religious value can provide an opportunity to showcase how nature and culture can coexist harmoniously while addressing environmental issues. The restoration of the riparian areas, implementation of bioswales, check dams, and reintroduction of native plants can help opportunity to showcase how nature and culture can coexist harmoniously while addressing environmental issues. The opportunities for local communities, educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable practices, and provide opportunities for scientists and researchers to study and monitor ecosystems.

The project highlights the potential for a sustainable future with a balance of human needs with the needs of the natural world. It also emphasizes the importance of integrating cultural and ecological considerations in land use planning.

Such an approach can be a possible model for similar projects, demonstrating how cultural and ecological values can be reconciled to create a sustainable future.

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References Fig 1 ,Fig 2 ,Fig 3 : https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather/historyclimate/climatemodelled/nashik_india_1261731 Fig 4 : https://maharashtraplanet.com/caves-in-maharashtra/pandavleni-caves/ Fig 5 : https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g303883-d3171000-Reviews-Brahmagiri_Hill-Nashik_Nashik_District_Maharashtra.html Fig 6 : https://www.bhaktibharat.com/en/mandir/tapovan-mandir-nashik Fig 7 : https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/ramkund.html?sortBy=relevant Fig 8 : https://www.alamy.com/stock-photo/sri-sundar-narayan-temple-nashik.html?sortBy=relevant Fig 9 : https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/LocationPhotoDirectLink-g303883-d3705407-i332166255-Shree_Kapaleshwar_Mahadev_Mandir-Nashik_Nashik_District_Maharashtra.html Fig 10 : https://tirupatitirumalainfo.com/panchavati-nashik/ Fig 11 : https://www.tourmyindia.com/states/maharashtra/kalaram-temple-nashik.html Fig 12 : https://www.baps.org/Photos/2022/Mandir-Moods-25416.aspx?mid=234708 Fig 13 : https://www.mappls.com/place-ram+kund+panchavati-nashik-maharashtra-422003+nashik-7F3FB4@zdata=MjAuMDA3NzAyKzczLjc5MjUzMSsxNys3RjNGQjQ=ed Fig 14 : https://www.shutterstock.com/search/naroshankar Fig 15 : https://tirupatitirumalainfo.com/tapovana-lakshmi-narayan-temple-nashik/ Fig 16 : https://nashik.gov.in/tourist-place/all-religion-temple-tapovan/ Fig 17 : https://www.justdial.com/Nashik/Trimbakeshwar-Shiva-Temple-Near-Nagar-Palika-Trimbakeshwar/0253P253STD2005258_BZDET Fig 18 : https://www.rudraksha-ratna.com/articles/kumbhmela Fig 19 : https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/vaishnav-akhadas-hold-flag-hoisting-at-nashik-kumbh-mela/articleshow/48542273.cms Fig 20 : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/nashik-kumbh-mela-2015-begins-today-781208 Fig 21 : https://www.enavabharat.com/state/maharashtra/nashik/know-why-chhath-puja-was-not-allowed-at-ramkund-this-year-449828/ Fig 22 : https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/nashik-kumbh-mela-to-start-on-tuesday-devendra-fadnavis-rajnath-singh-to-be-present-781104 List of species - G.S. Puri Fig 23,Fig 24 ,Fig 25 , Fig 26 , Fig 27 , Fig 28 , Fig 29 , Fig 30 , Fig 31 : http://www.flowersofindia.net/ Fig 32 , Fig 33 , Fig 34 : https://earth.google.com/ List of species - https://cultural.maharashtra.gov.in/english/gazetteer/Nasik/index.htm Fig 35 : Fig 36 : Fig 37 : Fig 38 : Fig 39 : https://ebird.org/region/IN-MH-NS Fig 40 : https://futurearchitectureplatform.org/projects/70d2bbb1-1f89-4935-a216-a4f3227c5eae/ Fig 41 : https://lbb.in/delhi/this-nursery-sells-plants-at-94c92f/ Fig 42 :https://thewire.in/agriculture/india-livestock-rearing-climate-change-oxford-university Fig 43 : https://www.backyardgardenlover.com/medicinal-plants-garden/ Fig 44 : https://www.justdial.com/Nashik/Flower-Exporters/nct-10212765 Fig 45 : https://www.99acres.com/agricultural-land-for-rent-in-nasik-ffid Fig 46, Fig 47, Fig 48 : https://futurearchitectureplatform.org/projects/70d2bbb1-1f89-4935-a216-a4f3227c5eae/ Note : All the maps are generated from Qgis and Google earth .

All drawings and text that are not credited, credits given to author.

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Source : https://issuu.com/heenagajjar/docs/journeys_in_the_cultural_landscapes

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5.

ANNEXURE 67

Case studies Case study - 1

Project : Journeys in the Cultural Landscapes of Okhamandal, Gujarat, India (Thesis).

Heena Gajjar (Department of Landscape architecture , University of Illinois at Urbana Campaign,USA)

Reclaimed Okhamandal

Reclaiming design strategies Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Location : Okhamandal, Gujarat, India About project : The project talks about Reclaiming Krishna Consciousness. How coastal settlements are facing the problem of Coastal erosion and Salinity ingress . The site along with being on coastline and a huge religious significance.

The proposed landscape and ecological planning strategies will help Okhamandal to thrive along with culture and its history.

Inferences : Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Converting concrete edges into natural edges for ecological revival of the riparian zone .

Retaining the riparian zones Planning according considering the watershed and it's revival Creation of small ponds in order to hold and filter the water , bringing back the migratory birds.

Trails to understand the cultural and ecological transformation happening on site .

Developing a sense where culture and nature's coexistence .

68

Rain water harvesting ,Water recharging tanks , Education to locals .

Floating islands acting as a green buffers Soaking sponge system and plantation of mangroves on the coastal edge Eco-cultural heritage trails for educations to learn about Lord Krishna and Turning hards-capes to softs-capes - green terraces Proper planning of ghats as per watershed and creating green pockets Old kund converted into traditional step wells for harvesting water Plantation of native plants and revival of wetland park for holding water and filtration of water.

Cultural route of Okhamandal

Proposed sea edge design

Reconsideration of ghats into design

Proposed coastal edge with soaking sponge

Proposed of pond in reclaimed grove

Proposed step-well to recharge groundwater

Proposed wetlands and bird sanctuary

Areas of proposal

Issues Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Coastal erosion Dealing with edge conditions Lost cultural value Cultural value turned leisure space Abandoned quarry Ghats restoration Degraded Wetlands Kunds

69

Case study - 2

Project : Regional Landscape study- Rishikesh , Uttarakhand Masters program in Landscape project (2015 - 2017 )| CEPT University .

Reclaimed Okhamandal

Location : Rishikesh , Uttarakhand, India About project : Understand and analyses the region of Rishikesh keeping the natural resources of the area as a primary priority also looking at the issues associated with the region.

Issues

Inferences : Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

The emergence of ghats into the river and their integration.

Building bio-swales will help you save water.

In order to prevent surface runoff, plant species on slopes where the land is degraded. construction of check dams to regulate water flow.

Using contour bundling to conserve soil and water.

Using strip or contour farming on slopes to prevent erosion of surface soil.

70

Ä Ä Ä Ä

Depletion of ground water Ground water recharge potential Need of soil and water conservation Erosion susceptibility

Ä Ä Ä

Landslide vulnerability Management Watershed Proper management of tourism Contour bunding

Strip farming

Check dams

Preserving the riparian edge

Reclaiming design strategies Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä Ä

Rain water harvesting on roof tops Contour Bunding Recharge pits and shafts Vegetation establishment Check dams Bio swales Contour farming Watershed management techniques

• • •

Existing boulder steps Unplanned construction

• • •

Existing boulder Steps Seasonal plantation

• •

Activities depends on water level Submerged plaza

• •

Unseen water terrain Emerged plaza 71

Readings

Reading - 01 Designed Ecologies The Introduction: Landscape Architecture of Kong Jian Yu Profession -William S. Saunders (ed.)

• Principal Designer, TurenscapeProfessor, Peking University

Education • Doctor of Design at Harvard GSD • Harvard Graduate School of Design • Beijing Forestry University.

Awards • World Architecture Festival Awards of Landscape -2009,2010,2011,2015,2017.

• Urban Land Institute Global Award for Excellence – 2009.

• ASLA award of Excellence – 2010 & 2012 • ASLA Honour Awards • National Gold Medal of Fine Arts of China – 2004

Tread Lightly: Red Ribbon Park Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China.

Year : 2006 Design : His goal is to remedy this and establish models to show Fit setting of green vegetation and blue water, curving with the terrain. Integrates how minimal interventions can make urban landscapes a boardwalk, seating, and lighting; lit from the inside, it glows red at night. Ground functional, pleasant, and socially vibrant for everyone. level crossings for small animals Creating an abstract pattern on the top of the Red Ribbon Five pavilions in the shape of clouds White, yellow, purple, and blue perennial Concept : Designing of elements which were against the flower gardens background and which bring dramatic improvement in the landscape.

The site has been dramatically urbanized and modernized, in tune with local residents’ desires, while keeping the ecological processes on the site intact Challenge : To protect the natural habitat .

Design :

Kong Jian Yu’s Challenge Peter Walker •

Ar. Kong Jian Yu

Content : • Introduction to Kong Jian Yu

• Kong Jian Yu’s Challenge Peter Walker • Ecology, With Pleasure William S. Saunders

Projects : Projects of Kong Jian Yu :

• • • • •

Among the many remarkable qualities of Kongjian Yu’s professional practice, three may be of particular interest to landscape architects around the world.

Range of projects that his firm, Turenscape.

Range of intellectual influence the practice exercises within the of hypergrowth experienced in China.

This pragmatic practice has been able to test many ideas that are in the Western world.

Yu’s work, even while extending across this same wide range of activities, has attained an extremely high and elegant level in both conception and execution.

Yu’s work has shown that the most broad and general concepts can be brought down to real physical levels and that these excellent built examples can then spatially inform future planning directions.

•

Tread Lightly: Red Ribbon Park Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province, China.

• Let Nature Do Her Work: The Adaptation Palettes of Qiaoyu an Wetland Park, Tianjin,China

Master plan

Yanweizhou Park during dry season.

72

Yanweizhou Park during wet season.

Legend 1 North entrance 2 Flower garden 3 Tea house 4 Service building 5 Cycle path 6 Pavilion of wolf tail grass 7 Aquatic plants 8 Red Ribbon 9 Boardwalk

There is minimal disturbance to the native People of different ages use the Red The Red Ribbon and one of the pavilions, the vegetation as the Red Ribbon winds along the Ribbon in varying ways, and it serves as a wolftail grass pavilion, each of which is named river and through the woods. Crossings for gathering place for all. The existing site was after a native grass species,provides small animals are built into the Ribbon. dramatically urbanized and modernized. information on environment to visitors 73

Readings - 02 Designing the Reclaimed Landscape Alan M. Berger

Introduction

Chapter 5 : Ecological succession and it’s role in Landscape reclamation

Ecological rehabilitation and restoration projects

Content : • Introduction • State of Ecology • Succession • Short course on Ecology • Climax of Ecosystem • Conclusion

Ecological reclamation industry

The writer asks the question of What are natural ecosystems ?

What are the measures of success ?

How do we know that we have produced functioning ecosystem or

Succession One thinks that once the forest has reached it’s climax/matured place means its has reached its max. possibilities , instead it has more potential after that as well .

Succession in pond where , succession is happening at different levels and again reviving it after it’s circle.

A forest succession, starting on bare rock

Succession in water body

what to produce or reproduce in ‘Natural’ ecosystems.

The sorry state of Ecology • In 1995 wolves were introduced in Yellowstone Nation park .

• Direct - indirect ecological effects were observed .

• Decrease in population of Coyotes which was up to 50% .

• Grizzlies were visible coming out from their winter hibernation as they were having food in winter months because of wolf hunting’s.

• Elks were observed to leave the riparian zones.

• Aspens and cottonwood provides shelter to beavers which were absent from Lamar river .

Short course in Ecology : G. Evelyn Hutchinson – His work dealt mainly with species and populations ecology, and he made real advances in modeling simple ecosystems. He saw that there were both producers (autotrophs) and consumers (heterotrophs) carrying out the energy and material cycling of the biosphere.

Eugene Odum – (Joined Hutchinson) “It is an orderly process of community development that is reasonably directional and therefore, predictable.”

“It results from modification of the physical environment by the community.”

“It culminates in a stabilized ecosystem in which maximum biomass (or high information content) and symbiotic function between organisms are maintained per unit of energy flow”.

Conclusion : • Huge change in ecosystem of park • The restoration of ecosystems was expect the unexpected .

• It increased direct and indirect connections by 2.4x108 by the interaction of 20 species.

Ecology is genuine science .Global diversity maps have been produced to see which are the hotspots regions of unusually high diversity spots .Various types of ecologist like fisheries ecology -fish stocks and their environments , ant ecologists who study a specific species and see what changes are possible if reintroduced in the ecosystem.

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• Ecosystem change during succession is the increase in biomass over time.

• Once the biomass curve levels off, some constraint has been applied to the growth of the system.

• Odum describes food chains in early successional systems as simple and linear; more mature food chains are more complex, with more cycles, including the recycling of nutrients from detrital material produced by the ecosystem • Early-stage, ecosystems often lose nutrient resources, while mature ecosystems retain much of their resources within the system • During succession, niches narrow. A “broad” niche refers to the great range of environments in which organisms can live and is typical of earlysuccession systems.

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Climax ecosystem : • One of the most misunderstood concepts is the process of a climax ecosystem in a successional sequence.

• One problem with the climax concept traces to its early investigators, who saw the climax as the final steady state of a system. The error of this concept can be seen in very mature ecosystems.

• Large trees are vulnerable to wind throw for instance, and overcrowded forests are vulnerable to fire and infestation by herbivore pests.

• A climax ecosystem should be looked at as a mosaic of different stages of ecosystem succession.

Examples : 1. Regress under stress Ecosystems regress under stress. The removal of larger, long-lived commercial fish associated with climax ecosystems resulted in a population boom of less valuable sand eels. Researchers linked the smaller, more quickly breeding sand eels to depleted catches of commercially important herring and mackerel. It is an example of succession being pushed backward. .

The removal of larger, long-lived commercial fish associated with climax ecosystems resulted in a population boom of less valuable sand eels. Researchers linked the smaller, more quickly breeding sand eels to depleted catches of commercially important herring and mackerel. It is an example of succession being pushed backward.

Removing commercial fish

Increase in population of sand eels

2. The tale of two creeks.

Three Howard Odum graduate students studied two adjacent tidal-marsh creeks on the southern coast of Florida in the 1970s One tidal marsh had a 2,400-megawatt nuclear power plant on it, the other creek maintained its natural character .

This increase in water temperature “stressed” the ecosystem in the creek. Although the plant was nuclear, the stress was heat related, and it was not temperature per se, but the move away from ambient conditions – from the ecosystem’s comfort zone – that damaged the system. Even worse, the complex food web was severely compromised: the number of cycles was cut in half; the stressed ecosystem lost much of its recycling power. It leaked nutrients and energy like crazy. It wasted away. From this example and those above, it can clearly be seen that stress sends ecosystems back to earlier stages of development. They function more simply, with less diversity. They shrink.

Conclusion : Ecology is a science with a lot of data. The annual cost of gathering and analyzing environmental data on ecological systems is in the hundreds of millions of dollars. Unfortunately, most of this information is unfinished and rarely synthesized. Frequently, data are collected for a specific purpose without using an experimental design that enables answers to more comprehensive questions.

Mosaic of succession in forest

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According to the data sets described above, early successional and “stressed” ecosystems lose more nutrients and water than more developed, or “natural,” ecosystems. One can direct the restoration of disturbed systems toward a desired result by using ecological principles. The nearby ecosystems should serve as a guide. Recreate as closely as possible the ecosystemic conditions of nearby systems before allowing the perturbed system to find its own new stable states.

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Seminar IMPACTS OF URBANIZATION ON RIPARIAN ZONE

FLORA AND FAUNA FOUND NEAR RIPARIAN EDGE • • • • • • • • • • • •

Along rivers and streams, animals and plants which are hydrophilic, or love all the water they can get.

This is not true of all plants, as many plants would drown if exposed to the intense amount of water at a river’s edge. However, many plants and animals have evolved for this situation.

Large trees like oaks, cottonwoods, ash trees, and willows are prime members of the riparian zone community. These trees provide shelter and rich soil, under which smaller shrubs and vegetation can grow.

While the trees limit the amount of light that reaches the stream, they also insulate the stream from experiencing the heating effects of direct sunlight. This increases the biodiversity within the stream, and allows many opportunistic feeders to come to the biome.

Animals like otters and musk rats love the abundance the riparian zone has to offer, as well as the protection it provides from larger predators like wolves and cougars.

Other animals include frogs, lizards, and snakes, all attracted by the water and abundance of prey.

Many aquatic bird species make their homes in riparian areas, including birds like ducks and dippers On the basis of their ecological strategies in riparian zones, riparian plant species can be classified into four major types a) Invaders – produce large numbers of wind and water-disseminated propagules that colonize alluvial habitats; b) Endures – resprout after breakage or burial of either the stem or roots by floods or after being c) Resisters – withstand flooding for long periods during the growing season; d)Avoiders – lack adaptations to specific disturbance types (i.e. individuals germinating in an unfavourable habitat do not survive)

Fig.1.

Introduction to the Riparian Zone • • Urbanization can have significant effects on riparian edges, which are the transition zones between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Riparian areas are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of urbanization because they are often located in low-lying areas that are easily accessible for development.

• • • • • • • •

Urbanization on riparian edges is the conversion of natural habitats into impervious surfaces, such as roads, buildings, and parking lots. This can lead to changes in hydrology, increased water runoff, and erosion, which can alter the physical and biological characteristics of riparian areas, also • lead to the introduction of non-native and invasive plant species, which can out-compete native species and reduce biodiversity in riparian areas.

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Riparius is a Latin word meaning “of or belonging to the bank of a river”.

Riparian zones are an unusually diverse mosaic of landforms, communities, and environments within the larger landscape, and they serve as a framework for understanding the organization, diversity, and dynamics of communities associated with fluvial ecosystems.

Riparian land is any land that adjoins, directly influences, or is influenced by a body of water.

It therefore includes: The land immediately alongside small creeks and rivers, including the riverbank itself .

Gullies and dips which sometimes flow with surface water .

Land adjacent to drains and channels that discharge into streams or wetlands Areas surrounding lakes .

Wetlands and floodplains, which interact with the river in times of flood .

Vegetation dependent on groundwater supplied by a river.

Riparian zone, also known as water-level fluctuation zone, buffer zone, etc., refer to flooded land that periodically emerge from the water surface because of the seasonal fluctuation of water level in rivers, lakes, or reservoirs. It is a special part of land, serves an important role in ecology and environmental resource management, and could bring economic benefits in various ways. Initially, riparian areas were considered as a type of a wetland.

The properties of riparian zones could bring great benefits. By providing agricultural, environment and attractive natural landscape, and tourism. Therefore, it is essential to continuously develop an effective and reasonable measure to utilize the land of riparian zones, which could guide us to create more benefits through utilizing it while preventing it from damages and pollution 81

ECOSYSTEM OF RIPARIAN ZONE

Values of Riparian Zone

•

•

• • • • • • • •

Riparian zones are an interface between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and also play a critical role in supporting biota and therefore biodiversity.

Healthy, native riparian vegetation reduces the water temperature of aquatic habitats by shading.

It also produces tannin which gives the water a distinctive amber colour, which further reduces light penetration of the water column.

When water temperature increases dissolved oxygen levels decrease, creating conditions which are difficult to endure for cold-blooded animals whose metabolic rates may exceed available oxygen in the rising temperatures.

More sunlight in the riparian zone also increases the growth of soft leaved vigorous weeds and algae that can choke the stream channel.

Because the leaf material of these plants is soft, it breaks down rapidly, depleting the water of oxygen completely. This situation is one cause of fish kills.

Riparian vegetation supplies energy in the form of leaf litter and other organic debris, which affects the aquatic food webs.

The relative importance of the riparian zone on the in stream ecosystems varies as you move from small, narrow upland streams where the riparian vegetation has a significant influence, to larger, wider lowland rivers, where many of the aquatic ecological processes occur independently of the immediate riparian vegetation, but instead rely heavily on inputs from upstream.

It is therefore vitally important to view our streams as continuum — and recognize that upstream riparian communities play a critical role in the functioning of the entire river system.

• • • • • • • •

Compared to non-riparian land, riparian land typically supports a greater diversity of plants and animals, and it occasionally supports endangered or vulnerable plant species.

It serves as a habitat for animals and a passageway for them to move between vegetation patches. It is the last line of defence for the preservation of water quality and in-stream life because it is typically more fertile and productive and has better soils.

Riparian vegetation is distinct and diverse in and of itself, frequently being taller, denser, and structurally more complex than the surrounding native vegetation. The extent of the riparian vegetation has a significant impact on the micro climate of this region, which is frequently more humid.

Vertebrate animals and fruits from riparian areas are consumed by freshwater fish.

Floodplains are crucial for breeding and food supply because they connect the land and water environments. In addition to offering spawning or feeding grounds, flooded riparian vegetation protects fish and other in-stream animals from being washed away during high flows.

Increased sediment and nutrients (mostly phosphorus and nitrogen) in streams can cause habitat loss, the suffocation of stream life, murky waters, and changes to the composition of plants and animals that live there.

Riparian vegetation protects streams by slowing surface runoff, using nutrients and trapping sediment and other contaminants as well as protecting the neighbouring stream, riparian vegetation also protects adjacent agricultural production.

It protects pastures and crops from wind and wind borne debris and offers habitat to helpful animals, particularly pollinating insects. Animals can find shelter from the elements while grazing on understory grasses and shrubs.

significant impact on the microclimate

Riparian zone

Fig.3.

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Riparian Waterbody edge

Riparian edge

Riparian zone

crucial for breeding and food supply

more fertile and productive

protects streams by slowing surface runoff

Importance of Riparian Zone

supports a greater diversity of plants and animals

protects pastures and crops from wind and windborne debris

serves as a habitat for animals and a passageway

last line of defense for the preservation of water quality

Fig.4.

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Functions of Riparian Zone

B. ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS .

PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS .

Inputs and Herbivory • Organic matter from riparian vegetation is a source of nourishment for aquatic organisms • Riparian structure appears to be the main factor influencing litter entering streams either directly or transported laterally from the forest floor depending on the vegetative cover of the riparian zone • The proportion of direct and laterally transported litter entering streams may significantly influence in-stream community dynamics as a consequence of input quality and timing.

• Living riparian vegetation is a source of nourishment for many animals, from insects to mammals, that can considerably alter system function by their feeding activities. Outbreaks of defoliating insects can alter riparian forest production and thereby alter water yield, nutrients.

• Riparian Zones as Nutriment Filters

Mass Movements of Materials and Channel Morphology • Material supplied to streams comes from erosion of stream banks, a process influenced by root strength and resilience • Riparian vegetation also modifies sediment transport either by physically entrapping materials, which appears to be most important in relatively low gradient environments, or by altering channel hydraulics.

Wood in Streams and Riparian Zones • In the riparian forest, on exposed alluvial substrates, and in streams, it accumulates during floods in discrete and conspicuous piles.

• Woody debris piles dissipate energy, trap moving materials, and form habitat. Depending on size, position in the channel, and geometry, they can resist and redirect water currents, causing the erosive power of water to become spatially heterogeneous, thereby creating a mosaic of erosional and depositional patches in the riparian corridor.

• Woody debris also results in longer water residence times Riparian Zones As Ecological Corridors • Riparian zones, as networks distributed over large areas, are key landscape components in maintaining biological connections along extended and dynamic environmental gradients • Exotic plants rapidly move both up and down riparian corridors in preference to overland routes • Certainly, adaptations of many plants allow vegetative fragments and seeds to float for various distances ,while many other riparian species are dispersed by wind or animals.

PHYSICAL BUFFERS • Sediments and sediment-bound pollutants carried in surface runoff are deposited effectively in mature riparian forests as well as in stream side grasses. Sediment trapping is facilitated by sheet flow runoff, which allows deposition of sediment particles and prevents channelized erosion of accumulated sediments.

• Grassy riparian areas trap more than 50% of sediments from uplands when overland water flows are BIOLOGICAL BUFFERS • Plant uptake, an important mechanism for nutrient removal in riparian forests results in a short-term accumulation of nutrients in nonwoody biomass and a long-term accumulation in woody biomass.

Riparian forests are especially important sites for biotic accumulations of nutrients because transpiration may be quite high, increasing the mass flow of nutrient solutes toward root systems, and because morphological and physiological adaptations of the many flood-tolerant species facilitate nutrient uptake under low-oxygen condition VEGETATIVE PATTERNS OF DIVERSITY Riparian forests provide insights into how plant species richness varies at regional scales with respect to natural disturbances .

Riparian forests maintain biodiversity through continuous upstream movement of species from other catchments or from extension of species distributions downstream during favorable environmental period. accumulation of nutrients in non woody biomass and a long-term accumulation in woody biomass.

• Riparian forests are especially important sites for biotic accumulations of nutrients because transpiration may be quite high, increasing the mass flow of nutrient solutes toward root systems, and because morphological and physiological adaptations of the many flood-tolerant species facilitate nutrient uptake under low-oxygen condition VEGETATIVE PATTERNS OF DIVERSITY • Riparian forests provide insights into how plant species richness varies at regional scales with respect to natural disturbances .

• Riparian forests maintain biodiversity through continuous upstream movement of species from other catchments or from extension of species distributions downstream during favorable environmental period NATURAL DISTURBANCES • Floods create heterogeneity within the riparian zone and thereby create distinct regeneration niches that facilitate the coexistence of con generic species

Biofiltration prevents sediments and nutrients from entering the stream Fig.5.

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Vegetation provides Riffles, LWD and aquatic and emergent vegetation help to organic matter to increase O2 levels in the the stream water.

Root systems reinforce soils, provide protective surface matting, reduce erosion.

Floodplains are commonly used in agriculture and for recreation

REFUGES FOR REGIONAL DIVERSITY • Riparian forest patches have acted as safe sites for regional flora during dry periods • Moreover, riparian trees in a savannah matrix are often younger because more mature trees are removed by wind and fire as compared to continuous forests Frequent removal of mature trees reduces the rate of competitive exclusion from the community while enhancing the potential for greater numbers of coexisting species

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Dams and Diversions

Stream channelization and levee construction.

• •

•

• • • • •

Natural riparian ecosystems upstream of dams can be destroyed when newly created reservoirs inundate riparian habitat.

Dams can also cause substantial changes in downstream riparian communities by altering the magnitude, frequency, and timing of flood events and reducing the amount of sediment and nutrients delivered from upstream.

Diverting water from stream channels for agricultural, industrial, and human use reduces the volume of water flowing downstream, and can have similar effects.

In a natural riparian system, periodic flooding can remove sections of riparian vegetation.

This leaves portions of the floodplain available for regeneration and effectively “resets” the successional timeline.

Frequent disturbance naturally favors many early-successional (pioneer) riparian species.

Changing flood regimes can be especially problematic when exotic species are favored by altered conditions.

• • • • • • •

Stream channelization is the process of engineering straighter, wider, and deeper stream channels, usually for improved navigation, wetland drainage, and/or faster transport of flood waters downstream.

Levees are often constructed in conjunction with channelization to protect human development and agricultural fields from flooding.

Riparian vegetation can be directly removed or damaged during and after the channelization process.

As water flows through a natural stream, meanders are created when faster flowing water erodes outer banks and slower flowing water deposits sediment on inner banks. Many riparian plant species depend on these areas of new sediment deposition for germination and establishment of seedlings.

Channel straightening and levee construction eliminate these areas of deposition, creating unfavorable conditions for riparian vegetation recruitment.

By preventing overbank flooding, levees reduce the amount of water available to riparian vegetation in the floodplain, which alters the types of vegetation that can persist in these conditions.

A lack of flooding has been shown to decrease the amount of habitat heterogeneity in riparian ecosystems as wetland depressions in the floodplain no longer fill and hold water.

Because habitat heterogeneity is correlated with species diversity, levees can cause reductions in the overall biodiversity of riparian ecosystems.

Livestock grazing • • •

Cattle have a propensity to aggregate around water, which can be detrimental to riparian ecosystems.

While native ungulates such as deer are commonly found in riparian zones, livestock may trample or graze down native plants, creating an unnatural amount and type of disturbance that riparian species have not evolved to tolerate.

Livestock grazing has been shown to reduce areal cover of native plant species, create disturbance frequencies that favor exotic annual weeds, and alter plant community composition.

Fig.8.

Land clearing • • • •

In many places around the world, vegetation within riparian zones have been completely removed as humans have cleared land for raising crops, growing timber, and developing land for commercial or residential purposes.

Removing riparian vegetation increases the erodibility of stream banks, and can also speed the rate of channel migration .

In addition, removal of riparian vegetation fragments the remaining riparian ecosystem, which can prevent or hinder dispersal of species between habitat patches.

This can diminish riparian plant diversity, as well as decrease abundances and diversity of migratory birds or other species that depend on large, undisturbed areas of habitat. Fragmentation can also prevent gene flow between isolated riparian patches, reducing genetic diversity.

Stream channelization and levee construction.

Fig.9.

Effects of overgrazing

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EXPECTED OUTCOMES : • • • • • •

Provide a positive and functioning model for similar community based projects along Sixth Creek.

The restoration of natural habitat along the riparian zone to a condition that is close to self maintaining.

The protection and regeneration of endangered and rare plant species along Sixth creek.

The restoration of plant species indigenous to the riparian zone.

Improved water quality and possibly increased water flow.

To restored habitat into long term, working within their means and with improved knowledge to do so.

Riparian ecosystem management – a case study of the ellidaá and ytri-rangá rivers in iceland SITE DESCRIPTION • • •

A case study of the Rivers Ellidaá and Ytri-Rangá in Iceland was used to study the management of riparian zones in Iceland.

Both the Ellidaá and Ytri-Rangá are spring fed and drain into the Atlantic Ocean. They have similar riparian vegetation types and/or classification.

It flows through the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik, and illustrates human impact on riparian zone ecosystems with regard to biophysical condition and management.

•

DATA ANALYSIS

• • • •

Responses from the respondents were systematically put into the database to develop tables and graphs.

Qualitative analysis was done by cording of responses.

For instance, the factors affecting biophysical conditions of the rivers and management measures were coded in clusters.

Institutional included planning, inspections, monitoring, collaboration and restoration interventions such as wastewater treatment ponds; legal included legislative aspects such as enforcement; socio-economic included public awareness and education, participation and human intervention or interference and financial issues; and natural covered natural factors or occurrences.

The suggested management strategies for the Ellidaá were ranked according to the number of respondents for each response or strategy.

•

Masterplan

Creek prior to willow removal Fig.15.

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After felling of willows

Hypolepis rugulosa is rarse in Adeliade hills but is regenerating along the more shaded parts of

Carefull prepration of appropriate herbicide specific to particular invasive species.

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Category of Number Sector/ respondents of Department respondents Fisheries biologists

3

Fisheries

Roles and responsibilities • • • •

Director , fresh water fisheries department

1

Municipality mayor

1

Urban planner

Fisheries

• •

Supervisor role and policy implementation Develop policy statements Provision of premise developers

Municipal local authority

• •

Policy making Protection of fresh water resources

1

Planning

• • • •

Municipality planning Design and implementation Mapping important areas Environmental impact review

Environmental health inspectors

1

Environment

• •

Environmental compliance Environmental impact review

Reykjavik energy

1

Energy utility

•

Monitoring regulating water quality

Private fisheries company

1

Private

•

Enhancing implementation of legislative government policies

Fishing area landowners association

2

Private

•

Organized committee management resources of riparian zone

GIS specialists

1

Environment

•

Research Monitoring freshwater Ecological registrations of salmon river Implementation of rules

• • •

RESULTS • • • •

Prevailing Biophysical Situations Regarding Management of Riparian Zones of the Rivers Ellidaá and Ytri-Rangá It illustrates the vegetation cover, some ecological interactions between riparian zones and aquatic life such as the fish and watershed and land use along the riparian zones of the Ellidaá and Ytri-Rangá.

River Ellidaá The vegetation cover is presented in hectares on the map at a scale of 1:35,750 within the 100 meter riparian buffer zone from the edge of the River Ellidaá.

The map indicates that richly vegetated area covered 9.8% of the zone, poorly vegetated area 24.6% and cultivated land 28.3%

Fig.16.

River Ellidaá - Land use and cover classes of Nytjaland database within the 100 meter riparian buffer zone. The red colour represents the River Ellidaá , and the other colours are vegetation classifications and coverage in hectare as presented in the legend

Land use mapping Vegetation cover classification Establishment of buffer zones

Analysis of respondents by category (sector or department, association), roles and responsibility in riparian zone management for the Rivers Ellidaá and Ytri-Rangá in Iceland 96

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Site visit :

Visiting a Demonstrative Degraded Site: Koteshwar, Banks of Sabarmati River

Location :

S.W.O.T Analysis : Strengths -Gradual slope -Easily accessible -Fertile soil-riparian zone -Continuous flow of water -Open to sky -Windy -Visual connection Weakness -Temple waste -Drainage from slums -Dust pollution.

-Growing of invasive species -Construction debris -Defecation Opportunities - Restoration religious value - Reviving the riparian zone - Revitalizing river ecology - Ecological corridor Threats - Slums - Temple/Religious waste - Prosophis growth - Concreting or river edge - Excessive fishing - Water hyacinth growing

Site visuals :

Koteshwar | Sabarmati River Bank The site was carefully selected owing to its degraded and manipulated nature to showcase a first-hand impression of the central idea behind site selectioncompromised ecology. Whilst on site, students were allowed to identify and explore various aspects of the site- its current state, contributing factors, indicators of degradation, original vegetation type, modified topography, human impacts, and others which enabled the site to be in its current state.

The students also understood various layers dominating the landscape at a smaller level, and its connection with the larger, regional level landscape.

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Garbage from temple and slum

Unfinished construction of road

Sand excavation on site

Less of vegeatation

Drainage pipes released into site

Growth of water hyacinths

Existing slums

Growth of Invasive species 101

Visiting a Demonstrative Restored Site: Basalt Quarry at Timba

Restored Basalt Quarry | Timba, Gujarat A celebrated project by late Prof. P Bhagwat during the 80s, captures the essence of Designed Ecologies. The site, which was completely barren after intensive mining of Basalt, was one of its kind to be restored as a native forest - hosting a rich bio-diversity over the years such that it was nominated to be declared as a bio-sensitive area by the government of India.

Students across six different studios in the program were taken to Timba to get a first-hand experience of a successful ecological intervention.

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Workshops : Soil workshop: Prof . Komal Parikh

Data & Sample Collection: Students were equipped with a mobile application - “GPS Waypoints”- which enabled them to record spot levels at places using their smartphone devices. As part of the exercise, the students collected soil samples from various locations of the site, which were brought back to the laboratory for further testing, to dissect its properties and nature and understand the ecological status of the site in greater depth.

The exercises were scheduled pre-site visits to enable students to use a diverse set of tools in deciphering their own project sites.

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Soil Test : 1. pH value 2. Sieve test

Key map

Soil and Sieve test Soil Samples Sample 1

Sample 2

Sample 3

Sample 4

Slightly acid

Neutral

Neutral

S4 pH test S3

S2

pH meter

S1 Acidic/Basic

Slightly acid

Sieve test - Measuring Weight of soil Bowl weight

464 grams

468 grams

208 grams

208 grams

Bowl weight + Wet soil

1584 grams

1130 grams

692 grams

608 grams

1500 grams

1090 grams

680 grams

514 grams

Dry soil weight

Sieve test - Different Sieve sizes

A workshop was conducted to understand the properties of soil by doing pH test and Sieve test on soil from our particular site .

Samples where collected of soil from different locations on site and taken from 10 cm under the top soil. to understand various characteristics of the soil.

The site has particular black soil , and the pH value ranges from 5-6 pH indicating the slightly acidic and neutral soil which is ideally good for plants. Sieve analysis is done to determine the particle size distribution of soil, which is important for understanding its physical properties such as water-holding capacity, permeability, and erosion resistance 104

Sample 1

Sample 3

Sample 2

4.75 mm

202

grams

131.17 grams

202.17 grams

128.09 grams

2.00 mm

72.32 grams

40.30 grams

219.16 grams

72.47 grams

1.25 mm

26.25 grams

64.17 grams

71.10 grams

37.95 grams

0.75 mm

0.63 grams

49.73 grams

20.56 grams

27.13 grams

Pan

0.18 grams

11.3 grams

1.89 grams

3.66 grams

Sample 4 105

References :

Case studies Case study 1 : https://issuu.com/heenagajjar/docs/journeys_in_the_cultural_landscapes Case study 2 : Thesis project - Regional study ofRishikesh , Uttarakhand - Masters program in Landscape architecture (2015-2017), CEPT university Reading Reading 1 : Saunders, W.S. (2012) Designed Ecologies: The Landscape Architecture of Kongjian Yu. Reading 2 : Berger, A. (2010) Designing the reclaimed landscape. London: Taylor &amp; Francis.

Seminar Data collection : https://biologydictionary.net/riparian-zone/ https://rangelandsgateway.org/topics/rangeland-ecology/introduction-riparian-areas#lentic%20or%20lotic https://india.mongabay.com/2022/05/punes-proposed-river-rejuvenation-project-does-not-consider-ecology-hydrogeology-and-climate-change-say-experts/ https://www.grocentre.is/static/gro/publication/381/document/fualing_d.pdf https://sixthcreek.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/merchants-road-signage-updated-Nov-2015.pdf https://www.turenscape.com/en/project/detail/4731.html https://www.grocentre.is/static/gro/publication/381/document/fualing_d.pdf file:///C:/MLA/SEM%202/DESIGN%20ECOLOGIES/SEMINAR/RIPARIAN%20ZONE/fualing_d.pdf https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/01426397.2017.1315389 https://sandrp.in/2014/09/17/riverfront-development-in-india-cosmetic-make-up-on-deep-wounds/ https://niwa.co.nz/our-science/freshwater/tools/kaitiaki_tools/impacts/loss-of-riparian-vegetation/causes-of-loss-of-riparian-vegetation/riparian-vegetation-and-agriculture https://tinkerscreek.org/importance-protecting-riparian-areas/ https://tomkatranch.org/2022/05/03/the-remarkable-benefits-of-riparian-areas/ Image : Fig 1 : https://www.conservationindia.org/articles/riparian-forests-for-healthy-rivers Fig 2 : https://www.friendsofreservoirs.com/science/best-management-practices-manual/chapter-8-riparian-zone/ Fig 3 : https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-plants-found-in-riparian-areas-often-have-characteristics-of-both-the-aquatic_fig2_299440556 Fig 4 : Author Fig 5 : https://superiorwatersheds.org/images/riparianbufferreportnew.pdf Fig 6 : https://www.water.wa.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/3113/11441.pdf Fig 7 : Author Fig 8 : https://onpasture.com/2018/03/26/riparian-grazing-can-we-just-do-the-right-thing/ Fig 9 : https://onpasture.com/2018/03/26/riparian-grazing-can-we-just-do-the-right-thing/ Fig 10 : http://www.landandwater.com/features/vol49no3/vol49no3_2.html Fig 11 : https://www.hutton.ac.uk/news/photosynthesis-aquatic-organisms-%E2%80%98counters%E2%80%99-impact-global-warming Fig 12 : https://sandrp.in/2019/08/28/pune-riverfront-development-project-encroachment-in-the-name-of-rejuvenation/ Fig 13 : https://nsefp.ca/enhancing-riparian-areas-by-managing-vegetation/ Fig 14 ,Fig 15 ,Fig 16 , Fig 17 , Fig 18 : file:///C:/MLA/SEM%202/DESIGN%20ECOLOGIES/SEMINAR/RIPARIAN%20ZONE/fualing_d.pdf Note : All the maps are generated from Qgis and Google earth .

All drawings and text that are not credited, credits given to author.

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Guided by : Prof . Deepa Maheshwari Teaching associate : Anmol Tewari LA4004 l Designed Ecologies Master’s in Landscape Architecture SPRING 2023 l CEPT UNIVERSITY