3.1 Understanding the Identity

"The distinguishing characteristic or condition of a person or a thing" is identity. According to Lynch (1981), "the extent to which a person can recognize or recall a place as being distinct from other places" is also defined as identity. The concept of identification has a wider context. In social sciences, it is an often-used phrase. It has been used in avarietyof contexts andforavarietyofpurposes to denotethe "uniqueness" of a person or a thing. Personal, political, ethnic, social, and place identities are a few examples.

One of the most important topics in human knowledge is identity. Various intellectuals have studied and analyzed it over time. Each place and space serve as a source of identification. Additionally, it gives those communities who use or live there their identity (Rabbani, 2002).

Cultural

Contributes

Advocating for a place

Identifying actions for improvement

Urban

•

Skilled Workers

Tourists

3.2 Urban Identity

Urban identityis therelationship betweenpeopleandplaces in which individuals identify themselves as being a part of a specific place (Hidalgo and Hernandez, 2001). Urban identity is known by different names in the fields of physical planning, social culture, and environment. In terms of place, ethnic, and social identities, it has been called the "uniqueness" of space design and function.

Urban identity is a blend of the built environment, regional culture, and geographic context that is layered with perceived memories. Additionally, "City identity is a combination of the experiences and goals of the locals and visitors. Understanding the larger city region as well as physical locations reflects the sense of place and identity. The challenge is for each city to discover its true and unique character in a "placeless world," where the identical brands may be found on every high street.

Cities with a rich history typically have a distinctive identity that must be protected. It includes an archive that captures the memories of city residents. The essence of urban identity is created by historical and cultural legacy. Therefore, cultural, and historical backgrounds help people form memories of the city and a sense of belonging with it.

3.3 Architectural Identity

Architectural identity can be divided into several major aspects, including aesthetics, function, historical and urban context, human impact, and representation. Since architecture is a part of the idea of identity, it is crucial to consider how changes to places and structures will affect the communities in order to preserve this identity. Architectural identity is a cultural phenomenon that can aid in bridging the gap between the past and the present in a discussion about social development (Humeyra, 2012).

The formation and design process of a community involves a variety of different local variables in addition to architects when determining the identity of a building. These variables include the contextual conditions of the built environment as well as the sociocultural perception of the constructed form by the local populace.

Figure (5) illustrates the relationship between identity and architecture. The two primary points of reference used in architecture to create identity are time and space. While space is connected to geography, time is connected to history. Time is linked to the idea of tradition and seems to be rooted in the past, whereas space offers the tangible building blocks that reflect the contextual context of identity. Today, it is asserted, designs should be created with a global viewpoint, with little to no regard for regional values and identity.

The Main Characteristics of Identity in Architecture

Many factors can affect the process of creating an architectural identity, Figure (6) illustrates them.

Place identity has become a major issue in the context of economic and cultural globalization, affecting both scholars and people. Cities' place identities may be influenced by specific aspects of urban morphology, such as built heritage and the innovative design of space (Gaspodini, 2001). Urban morphology in the context of built heritage can support national identity. Even customs contribute to a city's distinct neighborhoods.

3.4 Urban Morphology

Urban morphology is the study of a city's appearance. It combines physical description, progressive formation, and the interactions of the many urban tissue constituents. It describes metropolitan areas, including streets, squares, and other public areas.

The study of matter's form, shape, exterior structures, and arrangement is known as morphology (Madanipour, 1996). Urban morphology is studied by various academic disciplines. Urban geography, history, and architecture are all relevant to its theoretical components.

Understandingthe image ofthehistoric context andits spatial structurethroughthestudy of urban morphologyentails examining the variedpatterns of its elements' evolution over time. Identifying land use, building structure, plot patterns, and roadway patterns are all part of this study (Conzen, 1960). By comparing cartographic sources and historical maps, Carmona (2003) asserts that the examination of physical forms concentrates on street patterns, plot patterns, and building patterns. Kropf described a practical way to identify an urban area's character development process in 1993. The most sustainable part of a city to analyze is its physical form in order to develop a general impression of its personality. Buildings' aesthetic value is one of these physical characteristics.

3.5 The Aesthetic Value

The past's aesthetics are valued for their own sake. Older towns and structures are valued for their inherent beauty or merely because they are rare and old. Lynch (1972) nevertheless issues a warning against the "dogma about the intrinsic goodness of old things." Historic structures are frequently more intriguing than 'post-industrial' offices, homes, and retail malls, given the blandness of much contemporary design.

Historicstructures andneighborhoodshavepicturesquequalities;theyevokeatimewhen true workmanship and originality were valued more than the mass-produced, industrialized building materials and methods of today. In contrast to the modern, plastic, machine-mademetropolis withits repetitious elements andmassiveundertakings, theold city is an example of human scale, care, richness, and diversity (Appleyard, 1979).

3.6 The Need for an Image & Identity

Urban cities must have iconic buildings that convey an enduring image and a wellestablished sense of place. They assume the responsibility of narrating the history of the localityandtheregion as awhole.Theyarethebest places forthe general public to gather since they draw people, business, and commerce.

A structure with a unique identity stands out in today's world of mass-produced goods and culture because of its ability to support the community's need to acknowledge and celebrate its own unique historic, social, and cultural heritage in the context of its natural environmental surroundings.

The employment of a historically distinctive urban form, architectural style, design solutions, and ornamentation, along with the use of regional building materials and construction methods, are frequent ways that urban identity is expressed. The requirement for a city identity is crucial because it fosters harmony between "constant" and "changing" aspects, such as people and events, which are connected in a mutually beneficial way and contribute to the distinctiveness of a specific city.

The need for place identity was underlined by Relph [14] (p. 147) who claimed: "A profound humandesireexists forassociations withsignificant places. Thefuturecanonly feature a setting where places merely do not matter if we choose to disregard that requirementandallowtheforcesofplacelessnesstocontinueunchallenged.Thepotential exists for the creation of a setting where locations are for man, reflecting and enhancing the diversity of human experience, if, on the other hand, we decide to respond to that need and transcend placelessness. Thus, it can be inferred that urban identity has grown to be a crucial need in the modern city, especially considering the trends towards globalization that are currently rising.

3.7 Methods of Quantifying & Qualifying Identity

There are many techniques that have been used to measure a place's identity in earlier research on urban, heritage, and other themes. They want to learn how people feel and perceive a location. Comparative research, quantitative questionnaires (Lewicka, 2008, 2010), and visual aids like photographs (Salesses et al., 2013) are a few of these techniques.

Baum (2008) makes a distinction between geographic aspects (such as location, building patterns, and open space quality), functional aspects (such as accessibility, usage, private and public spaces), social aspects, and atmospheric aspects (such as identity, history, and atmosphere). Each one maybe applied in a mixed technique strategy. An empirical study employs both qualitative and quantitative techniques, whereas a spatial analysis relies on approaches from planning and geography.

Ujang (2012) makes use of both qualitative and quantitative information (interviews and field surveys). In this instance, information is gathered from shoppers to evaluate connection and place identification. In contrast, Ellingsen (2010)'s investigation on the territorialityofvariousethnicgroupsinKathmandufocusesonqualitativemethodologies and various interview types. Schmitt (2011), who examined and contrasted various World Heritage sites for his work on global cultural governance, employed field surveying as one of his methods as well. His research methodology includes document analysis, questionnaires, participatory observation, and qualitative interviews. Paasi (2013) analysed strategic regional plans and expert interviews for his studyon discourses ofregionalidentityin Finland(UrbanConceptsof CollectiveMemory, IdentityandPlace Attachment, 2017).

4. Methodology

• Collecting data through literature review to understand a city’s identity.

• Understanding Bhuj with respect to the cultural, social, architectural, and economical characteristics with the help of past historical events framed in a timeline and its relation to the association of people with culture.

• Identifying underutilized area formed near the lake for site selection as the lake being a crucial identity of Bhuj.

• Understand the emerging issues and concerns pertaining to the site with the help of various mappings, interviews with the stakeholder and government bodies, photographic documentation, and analysis.

• Case study Analysis to understand the design strategies and principles used.

• Defining the vision & design brief for the Project and derivation of appropriate program for the rejuvenation of Lake, revival of culture, development of city & its people.

• Designing lake Edges and Supporting Architectural Intervention i.e., environmentally safe, energy efficient, public inclusive and climate responsive that promote the identity of Bhuj with economic development.

5. Data Collection and Data Analysis

5.1 City Selection

The largest district in the Gujarat state is Kutch, a former princely state with people that are distinct from Gujarat's. Kachchh's (often written as "Kutch") rich and varied artistic traditions exist where different cultures and communities combine. Kachchh has a long history of sea trade from Mandvi and a global connection. It was once a destination for people travelling by land and sea from Africa, the Middle East, and the Swat Valley. Rajasthan, Sindh, and Kachchh shared a river system. Kachchh continually absorbs cultures from the north, west, and east due to its bordering location. Kachchhi motifs date back to the ancient Harappan culture, but the craft continues to develop because of the innovative and entrepreneurial attitude of intrepid artists. Kutch has managed to keep onto its values and traditions in one way or another. The largest district in India, Kutch, is further divided into ten talukas, or localities, including Bhuj, Mandvi, Gandhidham, Bhachau, Rapar, Abdasa, Mundra, Anjar, Nakhatrana, and Lakhpat. They each have a variety of natural, cultural, and historical resources. Despite the region's diversity, its residents nonetheless identify with the area because of a commonality.

Bhuj, which is in Gujarat's westernmost region, is close to the Gulf of Kutch, which is a section of the Arabian Sea. In addition to servingas the district headquarters for Kachchh district, the largest district in India, it was formerly the capital of the princely state of Kutch. The history of Bhuj dates back to the 1500s and is very rich. Although it has countless stories concealed in its monuments, buildings, and streets, many of those have been lost by the city's periodic earthquakes, the most recent of which struck in 2001 and completely destroyed the city. The Darbargadh complex, which includes historic buildings like the Prag Mahal, Aina Mahal, Rani Vas, etc., is at the centre of the city. The Rani Vas and Nagarkhana gate serve as reminders of the earthquake's devastation. Rann Utsav, a festival celebrated in Bhuj every year in February or March, is well-known. It usually falls on the same day as Shivratri, a Hindu event sometimes referred to as the Desert event. Traditional handcraft demonstrations, cultural events, and tours of the city are this festival's main draws.

The Bhujiyo Dungar hillock, which overlooks the city and is about 3 kilometres from the city centre, is where the city derives its name. The city is built around the fortified hill, Bhujiyo Dungar, which is home to the Bhujiya Fort. Bhuj is a desert city that has a rich history that includes palaces from several kingdoms and empires, including the Naga leaders, the Jadeja Rajputs, the Gujarat Sultans, and the British Raj. Bhuj is one of India's distinctive historic cities, with its many temples, small streets, and traditional handicrafts.

5.2 Context

5.2.1 Location of Bhuj

Bhuj is situated in the district of Kutch's centre. Bhuj's position is strategic because it has hills on its eastern side and the enormous lake Hamirsar on western side. The "Bhujiyo Dungar" hill, which has a fort on top, is where the city gets its name. Madhapar Town and Bhuj City are divided by this fort, the Bhujia Fort. 23.27 N Latitude and 60.67 E Longitude are the coordinates for Bhuj. Originally, Bhujia Fort, which had five main gates and one smaller gate named Chathi Bari, surrounded Bhuj City.

5.2.2 Geography of Bhuj

Bhuj is situated in the Kutch District, which is also known as the Land of Mystery, in India's northwest. Bhuj serves as the district capital for Kutch. Bhuj boasts a variety of vegetation and wildlife because of the hills, sea, and desert it is surrounded by. Bhuj is around 360 feet above sea level. East of it is Bhujiyo Dungar, well-known for the Bhujia Fort, which divides Madhapar Town, regarded as one of Asia's richest towns, and Bhuj City. A large lake called Hamirsar is the most well-known of the many small lakes that are present here.

• Minimum elevation : 10m

• Maximum elevation : 336m

• Average elevation : 130m

5.2.3 Climate in Bhuj

Being in a hot and dry climate zone, Bhuj experiences extreme climatic conditions. In thesummer,Bhuj getsquitehot.Theminimumandhighesttemperatures arearound22°C and 40°C, respectively. In Bhuj, the monsoon season begins in June and lasts till September. The city receives the most rain between July and August, after which the intensityof the rain decreases. A 330mm rainfall is average. In Bhuj, cyclones frequently occur during the monsoon season. November through February are the winter months in Bhuj. The temperature fluctuates from 8 to 28 degrees Celsius. Due to its proximity to the desert, Bhuj experiences a dry environment.

Relative Humiditydecreases in direct proportion to temperature increases and vice versa. The driest time of the year is during the summer, when Relative Humidity is very low in April and May. 50% Relative Humidity is the average.

Extreme seasonal variance in Bhuj's hourly average wind speed occurs throughout the year. The4.7-monthperiod from April to Septemberis the windiest timeofthe year, with average wind speeds exceeding 11.1 miles per hour. With an hourly wind speed of 15.4 miles per hour on average, June is the windiest month of the year in Bhuj. From September through April, which is 7.3 months, is when things are most tranquil. With an average wind speed of 6.9 miles per hour, November is the calmest month of the year in Bhuj.

5.2.4 Connectivity

Bhuj is well connected to other cities byvarious ways. Byrail, Bhuj is connected to other Indian cities such as Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Ajmer, Hapur, Moradabad, Bareilly, Kharagpur, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Pune, Gaziabad, Jaipur,and Ujjain. The city has a domestic airport, from which daily flights provided by Air India connect to Mumbai. From the ST stand in the centre of the town, State Transport buses are available for commutingthroughout Gujarat.Numerousprivatetourcompaniesalsoofferfrequent bus service to important destinations both inside and outside the Gujarat state. 53 kilometres separate Bhuj from Kandla Airport. The city bus and auto rickshaw are two ways to go around the city. The shared rickshaws, also known as Chakadas, are a very popular form of local transportation in Bhuj. These enormous richshaws can be enjoyed by 8

10 individuals at once. The majority of travellers choose these cars to travel to the several villages near Bhuj Town since they can take a variety of routes.

5.2.5 Population

Municipal Corporation, which is a part of Bhuj Metropolitan Region, is in charge of Bhuj City. Bhuj city is expected to have a population of 196,000 people in 2023, while the Bhuj metro area will have a population of 258,000 people. In 2011, there were 148,834 people living in Bhuj. By 2031, the city's population is anticipated to reach 280,000.

Bhuj City has an average literacy rate of 86.59 percent, with male and female literacy rates being 90.84 and 81.79 percent, respectively. In Bhuj, there are 887 men for every

1000women.Girlsoutnumberboysby905toevery1000.With68.62%ofthepopulation practising Hinduism, Bhuj is home to the religion. With over 25.64 percent of the population of Bhuj practising it, Islam is the second most prevalent religion. Christianity is followed in Bhuj City by 0.45% of the population, Jainism by 4.02%, Sikhism by 0.59%, and Buddhism by 0.07%. About 0.00% of respondents indicated Other Religion, while 0.61 percent said No Particular Religion.

5.2.7 Hydrology

Over fifty lakes, both large and small, are scattered throughout the city of Bhuj. These lakes have the dual function of storing water year-round and acting as urban sponges in times of heavy flooding and nonstop rain. These lakes are also recognized as the natural feeder for an additional seventy or so man-made wells dispersed across the city. What is known as Bhuj's natural water system is made up of these urban lakes, the dug well, and other water sources. The city's visionary ruler created a catchment system of lakes so that enough water could be retained to meet daily needs even during frequent droughts and minimal rainfall. Before the introduction of centralized water supply system in the late 1960s, these water bodies and wells were a prominent and reliable source of potable water for the city.

Thereare49 large andsmall lakes locatedinsideofBhuj City's boundaries. 49lakes total, only 17 of which are channel fed; the remaining lakes are the result of local depressions. Hamirsar Lake is the most significant. The largest artificial lake, Hamirsar Lake, is situated in Bhuj City's centre. About 450 years ago, it was constructed. It resembled an oasis in the district's dry terrain. Dhobi Lake, Chhataradi Lake, Pragsar Lake, and Desalsar Lake are some of the other lakes in Bhuj City.

The city's original characteristic of self-sufficiency in meeting its water needs has been severely impacted in recent years due to unchecked encroachment around the lake margins, a lack of rainfall, and rampant solid waste dumping. These water bodies, which once served as social hubs of the city, are now disappearing at an alarming rate. Bhuj's transition to a modern, centralized water system resulted in a greater reliance on external sources and the utter neglect and abuse of its own groundwater supplies, which led to the city's disintegration from the evolution of its traditional water supply system. A local non-profit organization called Arid Communities and Technologies (ACT) has been working tirelesslyover the past ten years to raise awareness of the need for water security and to adopt a participatoryapproach, supported bytechnical analyses of water resources systems.

5.2.8 Geology

The active plate boundary zone between the Asian plate and the Indian subcontinent, which runs along the border with Pakistan, is 400 kilometers away from this area. The Kachchh region may be located in a zone between Peninsular India's stable continental interior and the active plate boundary, according to tectonic geomorphology. Easttrending folds and faults that distort Deccan Trap basalts and Mesozoic clastic deposits, Tertiary sedimentary strata, and Quaternary terrace and alluvial/intertidal sediments are someofthemajorstructuralcharacteristicsoftheKachchhregion. Theeast-westoriented

Katrol Hills fault, the Kachchh Mainland fault, the Island Belt fault, and the Allah Bund fault which was the cause of the M 7.8 Kachchh earthquake in 1819 are the main faults in the area. The epicenter’s location and the destruction suggest that the Kachchh Mainland fault, or possibly a portion of it, reactivated on January 26, 2001. Both intraplate and plate margin settings can be found in the area. This region may be a section of the diffuse Indian/Asian plate border, or at the least, a transition zone between the stable part of peninsular India and the plate boundary, according to the presence of an active fold and thrust belt. Due to the existence of faults and rift zones, this region can be categorized as a special seismological environment known as "Rifted Stable Continental Region (SCR) extended crust.”

5.2.9 Seismicity

Several earthquakes with magnitudes between 4 and 8 and intensities between III and X+(MM) have been recorded in the region over the past 200 years, according to information from publishedliterature(QuittmeyerandJacob,1979; JohnstonandKanter, 1990; and Gowd et al. 1996). The most significant damaging earthquakes occurred in the same general area as the 2001 earthquake in 1819, 1844, 1845, 1856, 1869, and 1956 (https://cires.colorado.edu/bilham).

Among these, the 19th-century earthquake of 1819 is well known (Bilham, 1999). The Great Rann of Kachchh's northwest region was the siteofan earthquake onJune16,1819 (Lat. 240 00'N; Long. 700 00'E). According to Johnston and Kanter (1990), the earthquake had a magnitude of 7.8 and a maximum intensity of IX to X+(MM) (Quittmeyer and Jacob, 1979). Not just in this seismic belt but also over the entire Indian shield, it is regarded as one of the biggest earthquakes. According to Oldham (1883), Oldham (1926), Bilham (1998), and Malik et al. (2000), this earthquake caused an alluvial scarp to form that was 6 to 9 metres high and trended roughly east to west for 80 to 90 kilometres. It also claimed the lives of between 1500 and 2000 individuals. The southeast-flowing stream of the Indus River, which supplied fresh water to the Kachchh regions, was obstructed by this raised structure. Later, locals gave this elevated landmark the name "Allah Bund" the Mound of God. As a result, this event is well-known as the Allah Bund event of 1819 in the seismological literature. Other than the M 6.1 Anjar earthquake of 1956, this is the only thoroughly recorded example of recent deformation from Kachchh.

Bhuj has bio-diversity in terms of flora and wildlife because it is adjacent to the desert region (Rann of Kutch) and the sea. Bhuj's coastal region is covered in vegetation like saru, neem, ber, coconut, etc. There are Pipal, Imli, Gugal, Vad, and several cactus species in the steep, arid region. There are also green spaces all around Bhuj. Here, a variety of grass species can be found.

Bhuj and its surrounding environs are home to a variety of reptiles, animals, and fish. SomeofthereptilesfoundherearetheBlackCobra,BlackKrait,SandBoa,RoyalSnake, Sand Boa, Python, crocodile, spiny tailed lizard, monitor lizard, Kutch Rock Gecho,etc. In Bhuj, different types of toads and frogs may be found. Neelgai, Wild Boar, Chinkara, Indian Wolves, Jackals, and Pangolin are among the creatures that can be seen in Bhuj and the areas around it. The Kutch region is renowned for having a large White Ass population.

5.3 History of Bhuj

The current appearance of a historical city is the result of many changes that have occurred over time as a result of artifacts. Various influencing forces ( based on social, economic, political, religious, and environmental factors ) result in transformation of city’s appearance. The city of Bhuj has developed an additive settlement plan overtime, with Prag Mahal serving as its heart and streets as its arteries. The city is connected with three prehistoric dynasties (the Chavda dynasty, the Solanki Rajput rulers, and the Indus valley civilization, as well as the Mahabharata and Alexander's conquest of India). Bhuj developed trading and migratory relationships with ancient civilizations as far abroad as Zanzibar, the middle east and Greece, fostering a unique ethnic mix of peoples and traditions in the region hence the cityspeaks of the diverse culture and heritage. A walled city,pictoriallyplacedbetweentwostreams, Bhuj, likeJaisalmerandBikaner,isaclassic example of a desert township. Bhuj was struck by the earthquake twice - the second one wasabiggerthatkilled20,000anddamagedthepropertyworthbillions. However,Bhuj's residents fought for, and the city was rebuilt. Normalcy eventually returned to Bhuj, and the city regain pride of its history and culture.

Pre-Historic Period

Bhuj was involved in a number of significant historical events and had close ties to other ancient locales like Greece, the Middle East, and Zanzibar. It is certain that Bhuj was part of the Harappan Civilization because evidence of Harappan artefacts have been discovered at Khadir. Between 66 BC and 24 AD, a writer by the name of Strabo, wrote about Tejarashtra, which included Bhuj, as a city with the name Tej.

Between 8th-16th Century AD

SammaRajputs from the Sindh region ruled Bhuj fromthe eighth to thesixteenth century AD. Lakho Jadeja rose in the Kutch region over time as the kings of Sindh lost their influence.

1510-1632

TheRaoHamirji established Bhuj in 1510. Laterin 1549,it was famed as thestate capital on Vikram Samwat. Rao Khengarji 1 arrived and built a complex for himself not far from Hamirsar and adjacent to Street Market. Today, this lake assumes a central place in city's creation and is at the core of all popular explanation of pattern of development to come. The early settlement boasted a small market street connecting temples and mosques ( Shiromanirai and Trikamrai temples and the Minara mosque on Saraf bazar ) in a straight line not far from pond, since commercial activity could easily grow around the places of worship. early development revolves around motion of water.

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Darbargarh is a royal complex apartment for bodyguard of king built in mid 1500s by Khengarji 1. Then the pond expanded, Hamirs pond became Hamirsar ringed with retaining walls. Network of Wells and underground cisterns from Khari river created to fulfill the daily water need. There are several smaller ponds on Panchmukha Hanuman street.

1632-1814

Bhuj developed agriculture and established a system of central government in this era. Mid 18 th century Ramsingh Malam, local ruler returned from Holland & during that period, british arrived in Bhuj. Since then, influence of vernacular Baroque style in buildings is observed. During the period of 1741-1760, Bhuj is ruled by Maharao Lakhpatji Foreign trade, shipping, handicrafts, literature and performing arts flourished during this time. Rao Godji 2 ruled the Bhuj from 1760 to 1779. The city was not developed in his time as the war had initiated with the Sindh. During the 1778-1786, Rao

Raidhanji 2 ruled the Bhuj. But in 1986, Raidhanji 2 imprisonment by Meghji Seth and till 1801, prince regent Bharmalji 2 handled Bhuj. Again in 1801-1813, Rao Raidhanji 2 became the king.

Bhujiyo fort is built in 1718. In 1729, construction of Alamgarh (fortification) done by Deshalji 1 to protect the settlement from the attack by Ahmedabad’s sultan. Towards northwest of walled city, a manmade lake, Desalsar lake is made to sustain the water demands. Pavdi ghat of Hamirsar lake is constructed in early 18th century. Brijbhasha Pathshala, a school for poetry and rhetoric was built Prag Mahal built in late 1800. Chavdi on the market street is constructed in 1752. In the middle of 18th century, Fateh Mohammeds khordo, patwadi was completed The chhatris of Bhuj are erected by Rao gore in 1760 Construction of mosque close to Mahadev gate was done in remembrance Mohammed Pannah.

1814-1948

During 1814-1819, Bhuj is governed by Rao Bharmalji 2. In 1819, Bhujiyo hill was attacked by British and fort is captured. British camp struck under Bhujiyo hill and a growing British colonial presence is observed. Since then, Bhuj became a princely state till the independence. The earthquake struck in Bhuj in 1819. This necessitated newer construction technology with presence of British colonial influence. As a result, traditional architectureof Bhuj is erased. Maharao Deshalji 2 ruledthe Bhuj during18191860. As the British arrived, there was spread of commercial and military tentacles and industrialization began in the city During 1860-1875 Pragmalji 2 ruled the Bhuj. Photographic documentation of town as a record of achievement is done. During 1876 to 1942 Pragmalji 2 was the king of Bhuj DuringWorld War 2, there was an attack on Bhuj in 1942 During war, Bhuj’s commerce begun to improve. Hence, greater opportunities for employment and business from Rapar, Bhachau, Anjar converge. During 1942- 1948, Maharao Vijayarajji, ruled the Bhuj and later for 3 months Madansinhji became the king of Bhuj.

Lakhota (Island- Rajendra Bagh) built after 1819. In the year 1822, first Swaminarayan Sampraday Temple was laid in Bhuj. Ummed bhavan circuit house constructed. Schools and hospitals mushroomed. In this era, construction of several important landmarks, including jail near Sarpat gate, Hathisthan (elephant stable), Alfred high school, Pragsar tank, Sharad Bagh palace, Zalam Sinhs Haveli (now the Bhuj commercial cooperative bank in the centre of town) was done. Krishna ji bridge across Hamirsar lake was also constructed in this time period. In 1870-80, waterfront development with Bhuj municipality building had begun Construction of Mamlatdar office and old Protestant church was completed in 1866. Old vegetable market was commissioned by Maharao Pragmalji 2 in late 19th century by Salaat builders. Prag Mahal was built by Victorian Gothic style by Maharao Pragmalji 2 in mid-19th century. In 1870, Alfred high school wasbuiltbyMandvi In 1880,Dosabhai Lalchand DharmashalaconstructedinBhuj City museum and library was constructed in 1877. Concentration of administrative offices, high court, high school, and trade offices. In late 19th century, old court, Patwadi was built Naniba Sanskrut Pathshala, Patwadi is also done in late 19th century which was commissioned by Khengarji 3. Jubilee hospital was built in late 19th century. In 1890, Chabutara in Bhid Chowk was done.

In 1923, Kachchh Praja Sangh started In 1931, Kandla port was done A small guage railway built to connect Kandla and Tuna. First bus service from Bhuj to Mandvi began in 1935 In1936, telephone and in 1945, air services began. Great influx of people to the walled city resulted in congested old city. For royal exchequer, portion of royal land sold to privateinvestorsfor500koris(60*90ftplot for150rs). In1941, first bank opens. Lotus colony development outside the walled city In 1942, two movements, cheetah satyagrah and rakhal satyagrah started. Bhuj supported quit India. In1947, India's independence from the British and kachchhi people's increasing disagreement from monarchy before kutch’s merged with Indian union. 1 June 1948, Kutch merged with Indian union. Four hundred years of Jadeja administration ended. Currency before independence in 1947 symbolized Kachchhiyat, essential oneness, something which made stand out from rest of the India.

1948-2001

In 1960, momentum to move out of the old city began again. This turned physical development, culture, and traditional economy. In old city, clusters of housing appeared to relate to one another not just socially but also economically But newly developing Bhuj has no traditional signs of community identity. Buildings are built by modest way which have detached plots and are western in outlook. This reflects individualism & economic independence. Traditional Saalat builders were forced to new technologies to survive in market. As a result, Salaat's traditional knowledge of construction and ornamentation disappeared. The city is transformed visually into a city no different from any other in India. Mass production is considered as an economic standard. As a result, each trading community adapted and adopted. Redevelopment of commercial and residential into commercial encourage high rise construction in old city because of competition. City is not addressed on large scale. This leads to mix of incongruous buildings devoid of sentiment and soul. Till 1959, followed Pune board for education. In 2001, Bhuj was struck with an earthquake having massive destruction of the city. Pathway in the Chattedi lake was not constructed till 1950. In1956, GK general hospital was constructed. Government of Gujrat set new budgetary allocations for cooperative housing in 1960 As a result, Orient colony (For migrant of Pakistan) having 28 bungalows adjacent to the lake was built in 1961. Later, development of Santosh, ST, Adarsh Jubilee and Anand colonies began. Ekta colony strated west of Hamirsar after opening KC Anjaria hospital. In 1971, egalitarian development of Apna bazaar brought newgoods and newtechnologiesofproductionto old market. High risebuildings in inner city increased as commercial interests increased in old in 80&90s City housing and traditional property contradicted traditional Kachchhi house layout trending towards modern,universaldesign aesthetics. Citydevelopedveryquicklyin1970. In 1960,Lalan college and in 1964, Bharat English School constructed. In 1972, the school renamed as St. Xavier's school. Relocation housing, private development, spearheaded by wealthy communities. Chhattedi complex completely collapsed in 2001.

5.4 Bhuj Now

The history of Bhuj alternates between periods of expansion and rebirth, resulting in a complex, continuous mosaic of sheris, chowks, house forms, and monuments, which contribute to a feeling of identity. Coherent identity revolves around specific identifying character that is the essence of the city, the institute, the spaces that they inhabit. Distinctive was the ever-evolving ‘layers’ that these sheris and chowks had to them, which were quite different from the typical urban streets and nodes in a city; the organization pattern and nomenclature of sheris and chowks ( with respect to communities ); change in character according to the house typologies; co-existence of diverse religions; variation in widths with respect to the usage ( primary, secondary, tertiary);variationinthebuiltmass(co-existenceofoldandnew);blurredlinesbetween public and private; varying usage with respect to the passage of time; evolution with respect to the time; association with the narratives. This is defiance of the notion of singularityand sense of complex unity. Precincts with a sense of place have a role to play in a larger context of the city and the society. Such precincts must be looked at as a resource, as a place having interaction of the culture and the built environment. Such places are not just ‘another place of business and residence’ but are essential areas giving an identity to the place reflecting the personality.

A7.7on theRichterScaleearthquakedevastated Bhuj andthesurroundingareas in 2001, with the epicentre at Bhachau Taluka, which is about 20 km from the city. In the aftermath of the tragedy, millions of people were left homeless and 8000 villages, along with the city of Bhuj, were completely destroyed. Over 20,000 people were killed, 1,66,000 were injured, and approximately 4,00,000 dwellings were destroyed by the earthquake, leaving many homeless people in need of restoration.

The government authorities' first and most important step was to identify relocation sites and start a significant restoration programme. On public property near Bhuj, seven relocation options had been proposed by September 2001. In order to implement town planning recommendations and guarantee respect to safety laws in light of the possibility of future disasters, the Bhuj Area Development Authority (BHADA) was established in the aftermath of the tragedy in Bhuj. One of the largest urban regenerations projects the government has ever undertaken was the renovation of the city, which was then started by the authorities.

• What exactly makes old Bhuj old?

• And at what point exactly do we make the distinction between what is old and new about Bhuj, indeed any city?

• Can we really pin such distinction down to specific date or event?

Adevelopmentplanwas createdtomanageanextensiveandinterconnected development throughout the city following extensive evaluation of seismic risks in various areas of the city. Land, the road system, physical and social infrastructure, water bodies and the environment, heritage preservation, and reconstruction of the informal sector were the main issues. Due to restrictions governing building construction, which limited building heights to only two floors, the city experienced an expansion of about four times. In the old city, which was just one square km in size, about 35,000 people resided prior to the earthquake. This dispersed theenormous people that hadbeen used to livein thecramped living conditions of the old town. An extensive road network was also suggested, and the ancient water management system that had degraded over time would be restored. The beginning of rebuilding in the walled city's dense urban morphology was the most important undertaking of all. But because so much of the region was devastated, there were a lot of prospects for renewal.

The Town Planning Scheme came up with a two-step plan of action. First, a series of new, large loop roads connecting the market districts and the walled city were created within the existing structure while utilising the already existing open spaces. The market streets were made pedestrian-only areas, yet it provided access to the entire walled city. Second, there was a land readjustment in the heavilyfortified area. At the neighbourhood level, where the buildings fell, the plot layout was changed. This gave more space for wider streets and safer built environments.

Heritage conservation was another step in the reconstruction effort, and as a result, numeroushistoricbuildings wererestored acrossthecity,includingthethree WalledCity Gates, Alfred High School, and the old Sharaf Bazaar.

After twenty years, Bhuj is standing proudly facing unconstrained infrastructural and economic expansion after having learned its lesson the hard way. The city literally developed from the ruins of destruction, but it has since overgrown from the wounds of the past. It embodies positivity to the highest level and uplifts those who are down everywhere.

5.5 Identity of Bhuj

In its structures, monuments, communities, people, public spaces, and culture, the historic urban area (core) is a significant reservoir of cultural heritage. It has evolved gradually over many years in response to shifting emphasizes on the city's role, resulting in a complex, highly distinct urban fabric. Historic cores are an important component of Indian cultural heritage because of its features, many of which are common to many cities. However, fundamental changes in urban governance and planning brought on by