STRIP 0.1: Kickstarting Resilience at Buckingham Canal

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

STRIP 1.0 KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL PROMOTING ALTERNATIVE WATER MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES WHILE ACTIVATING UNUSED URBAN SPACE

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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THE BLANK SLATE TEAM

Pratik Daulat Bina Bhatia Sneha Tiwari Maitreyi Pundare Sagarika Patra

© 2019. THE BLANK SLATE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

ACKNOWLEDGMENT This report is the genesis of the opportunity offered to us by EOTC and GIZ for which we would always be grateful. We would like to thank EOTC and GIZ for identifying our potential, believing in us and giving us the opportunity to take our passion for sustainable and resilient cities further. We would specifically like to thank Vidhya Mohan Kumar and Sudhakar K.S for their support and guidance throughout the project and giving us the opportunity to collaborate and create a solution for Buckingham Canal in Chennai.

We would also like to extend our gratitude to our advisors Madhulika Chaudhary, Neeraj Chaudhary and Ranjani Parasuraman for providing technical expertise required for the project. They have selflessly contributed their expertise to make our initiatives implementable. We would also like to thank officials from various government departments in Chennai including the PWD, CRRT and Chennai Metro Rail for taking out the time to meet with us numerous time and providing valuable data required for this project.

Lastly, this project would not have been possible without our most important stakeholders - the communities residing along the banks of the Buckingham canal who participated in numerous workshops with us and provided invaluable insights for the project.

Each of our team members have contributed largely to the project and shown great efficiency and cooperation to push this project beyond its self imposed limitations. With Bina Bhatia and Pratik Daulat as our mentors, our team comprised of Chaitrali Ghodke, Vini Shah, Maitreyi Purandhare, Sagarika Patra and Sneha Tiwari, each of whom have contributed their best in each of their unique ways.

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Disclaimer The ‘Eyes on the Canal’ initiative for participatory planning to make the Buckingham Canal a liveable place for the residents of Chennai (India) was supported by the global project Cities Fit for Climate Change (CFCC) of GIZ from June 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019. Within this initiative, the global project CFCC launched an ‘Open Ideas Competition on Reimagining Chennai’s Buckingham Canal’. This publication shows the refined contribution of the winning team ‘The Blank Slate’ (team responsible: The Blank Slate; address: 13th floor, We Work, Tower B, 247 Embassy Park, Hindustan C, LBS Marg, Chandan Nagar, VIkroli West, 400079,Mumbai). ‘The Blank Slate’ takes complete responsibility for the content and views expressed in its competition contribution as well as the refined final version. GIZ will not be held responsible for the content and views expressed in this publication.

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Context – The Buckingham Canal The Buckingham Canal is a manmade, saltwater, navigation canal that runs parallel to the Coromandel Coast in a northsouth direction. It was built in different phases from 1800 until 1882 with a length of approximately 800 km reaching from Vijayawada to Marakkanam. Within the Chennai metropolitan area, the canal connects the three rivers – Kosasthlaiyar, Cooum and Adyar. Though primarily constructed for navigational purposes, the canal also helped significantly to manage floodwater. Today, however, the canal faces severe pollution due to solid and liquid waste disposal. In addition, numerous business buildings and unplanned residential settlements encroach on its banks. This reduces the width of the canal and decreases its capacity as flood management infrastructure to retain floodwater in case of heavy precipitation or storm surges. Moreover, the canal’s former functions offering a trading space on its waters where the local population developed their livelihood, as well as a place for recreation and belonging have been lost. Over the years, various governmental agencies have struggled to revive the canal and continue to do so to this date.

‘Cities Fit for Climate Change’ Against this backdrop, the initiative ‘Eyes on the Canal’ was brought into life. It focuses on reimagining the Buckingham Canal in Chennai as part of the global project ‘Cities Fit for Climate Change’ (CFCC). CFCC is a global project implemented by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU). It forms part of the International Climate Initiative (IKI).

The project also cooperates with the German Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community (BMI).

The global project CFCC strengthens cities as key actors in sustainable development. It collaborates mainly with its three partner cities, Santiago de Chile in Chile, Chennai in India and Durban (eThekwini) in South Africa. Besides supporting the implementation of climate-proofing activities in its partner cities and strengthening global exchange on low-carbon and resilient urban development the project developed a Climate-Proof Urban Development Approach (ClimPUDA).

‘Eyes

on the Canal’ – An Open Ideas Competition on Reimagining Chennai’s Buckingham Canal

‘Eyes on the Canal’ is an initiative for participatory planning to make the Buckingham Canal a liveable place for the residents of Chennai. The initiative involves various activities such as awareness walks and community engagement meetings to generate interest and ownership for the canal, which has suffered from collective abandonment.

Within this initiative, the global project CFCC launched an ‘Open Ideas Competition on Reimagining Chennai’s Buckingham Canal’, which was supported by three local non-governmental organisations (NGOs): The Urban Design Collective, Agam Sei, and WeBe Design Lab. The competition is implemented in collaboration with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), the municipal administration.

The Open Ideas Competition aimed to find solutions to improve the environmental situation of the Buckingham Canal in the south of Chennai. A total of 296 registered for the competition and 81 participants finally submitted feasible and creative solutions to tackle climate change and upgrade local livelihoods for a 3.5 km stretch of the canal. The neighbourhood located next to the selected canal stretch is highly diverse in terms of social composition and land use. It features informal residential and business buildings in a poor area, a mixed middle-class area and larger IT office buildings. In short, it creates a particular context that requires tailor-made solutions. The competition took a holistic view of the canal and was designed as an integrated exercise, which was influenced by and targeted at experts as well as citizens from a multitude of backgrounds. The ideas competition opened new ways of discussing and working on urban development issues in Chennai, promoting participatory planning to enhance public engagement.

This report was submitted by The Blank Slate after further detailing the proposal submitted during the open entry competition in 2019 Further information on the global project ‘Cities Fit for Climate Change’ (CFCC): - Video on the global project CFCC https://www.international-climate-initiative.com/de/nc/infothek/videos/film/show_video/show/cities_fit_for_climate_change - Video on the Climate-Proof Urban Development Approach (ClimPUDA) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00jgJN79riY&feature=youtu.be - CFCC project information https://bit.ly/2XWDQlg

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“We don’t have to engage in grand,

heroic actions to participate in the process of change. Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.

”

Howard Zinn

TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Summary Introduction

Buckingham Canal: A Chronology Current State of the Canal Key Challenges Project Goals & Framework

Part 1 :The Site: Strip 1 Locating the Strip 1.0 Site Context Generating a Collective vision

Part 2 : Short Term Action Plan

Rationale Our Approach Case Studies Our Vision Placemaking Strategies Menu for Programming Event Mapping Design Intervention Tactical Design Elements

Part 3 : Green Infrastructure : Interim Projects

Building resilience through scalable pilot projects Case studies Analysing Canal condition Developing Resiliency menu based on canal condition Integrated Water Management Community Participation monitoring & control

Part 4 : Implementation Strategies

Process of Activation Implementation Strategy and Timeline Formation of Friends of the Canal Identifying Community Stakeholders Financial Module Design Evaluation Criteria

Part 5 : Way Forward : From Strip 1.0 to The Strip Vision for Interconnected Public Space Case Studies Design Strategies & Objectives

Annexure Sources

EXECUTIVE SUMARY

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

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KEY PROJECT CONCEPTS

Key Project Concept and Considerations Implementable & Realistic Goals

Clean Water & Sanitation

Liveability

Storm Water Management

Public Space

Sustainability

Site Activation Resilience Year Round Programming Canal Rejuvenation

Flexibility Community Participation

Nature Restoration Native Planting

Collective Vision

The project details a community-centric road-map of creating an implementable, sustainable and maintainable plan to rejuvenate a section of the canal through photo-remediation & integrated treatment wetlands. The project demonstrates alternative water management techniques and creates an activated public space in the process transforming the selected interim stretch of Buckingham canal into a livable space. Building upon the groundwork laid by GIZ to identify community desires, by continuing to conduct interviews, the project generates a community vision to build upon an underutilized space near Buckingham Canal as an untapped resource for the community.

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Chennai, like various coastal cities has been experiencing the impact of climate change and has seen various weather anomalies and recently faced a 1 in a 100 year flooding event in 2015. Continuing at the current trajectory, Chennai will soon experience a 1 meter rise in sea level due to which the city can expect a huge chunk of approximately 144 sq. km. of land being inundated near its coastal areas. A flooding disaster at this time can cause a storm surge of up to 6.8 mts. resulting in a loss of over Rs 7,00,000 crores.[1] The first phase of our project studied future shocks and stresses that could affect the city and identified Buckingham Canal as an asset that has already been providing resilience and is need of strengthening to flood-proof Chennai. We proposed to re-imagine the Buckingham Canal as a means of making Chennai climate proof by taking urgent steps to address the challenges arising out of unpredictable climate, rising sea levels, future storm surges and possible inundation of the coastal areas of Chennai.

Our proposal looked at different industrial, residential and ecological landscapes that the canal runs through in Chennai and based on land use suggested strategies to combat the perils of climate change at a regional level.

Our strategies for a planned water sensitive future development in South Chennai included developing decentralized sewage treatment systems for under-served areas and protecting and restoring Pallikaranai marshlands. and developing a water management toolkit to address climate change.

LEGEND Coastal areas under threat by sea level rise due to 2� rise in global temperature Coastal areas under threat by sea level rise due to 4� rise in global temperature Areas flooded in 2015 CRZ line Roads flooded in 2015 [1] - The above information has been acquired by various sources. Please refer to the sources section of the report.

Assessment Map created by The Blank Slate The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Limit Urbanization

Expansion Of Flood Area

A berm wall will help in blocking the water from overflowing into the city during a period of flood or disaster.

By limiting urbanization, green spaces around Chennai can be preserved and help with regulating the micro climate.

Expansion of Flood Area will decrease the risk of flooding by increasing the capacity of water to be conveyed .

No Infrastructural Waste

Reduction of Paved Areas

Constructed Wetlands

Promoting reuse of wastewater in industries and regulating waste dumping.

Reduced Pavement will help in reduction of surface water runoff . Thus there will be a lower risk of flood.

Constructed wetlands can compliment insufficient sewage treatment plants

Re-naturalization of Banks

Natural Filters for Water Purification

Retention-ponds

Natural Vegetation Buffer helps protect the quality of water & also stabilizes the shoreline & reduces erosion.

Mangrove enclosure near the river will protect the shoreline from storms and help with purification of runoff water.

Rainwater Catchment areas helps in harvesting water for the longer period of year.

Infiltration fields and strips with above ground storage

Rain garden

Visibility of Asset

Vegetation on streetscapes reduces the impact of heat island effect while providing shade as well as creating public parks .

Rain gardens are a garden of native shrubs and perennials that are planted in a small depression. They will temporarily hold and soak water from roofs and roads.

Employing water as a functional aspect to heritage or prominent buildings helps in creating awareness.

Bioswales

Raising The Ground Water Level

Constructing buildings on stilts will help in preventing flooding in buildings .

Bioswales can treat surface water from the street and slow down flooding of drains and waterbodies.

Porous Pavements are created with a range of sustainable materials that allow movement of water through the surface.

Rain water harvesting

Green Roof

Use of Ground Cover and Shrubbery

Rainwater collected from roofs and man-made hard surface would help in storing water for dry periods .

Green roofing systems will cater to solving problems like temperature increase and reduced habitat.

A greater percentage of soft scape in comparison to built scape will help with increasing ground water table.

CITY Berm LEVEL INTERVENTION

NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL INTERVENTION

STREET Raising The Ground Floor Level LEVEL INTERVENTION

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Water Based Densification

Waste Water Treatment Plant

Water based densification helps in deducing FSI for structures according to their stationing on land.

Increased capacity and new waste water treatment plants to connect under-served areas

Helophytes

Water Retention Infrastructure

Helophyte Filters have a large quantity of Rainwater collected from roofs and manmade hard surface will help in using the biomass to treat polluted water in rain water for daily household use. water-bodies Adding green zones

Floating Filtration Islands

Green Buffer Zones will help in reducing the Floating filtration island help in eradicating temperatures and unwanted nutrients in aquatic systems that improving the quality of air and life in the city. breed algae and aquatic weeds.

Water Squares

Natural filters

Water Squares are are not only water These filters help in trapping waste from storage facilities but also give an identity to water and help improving the quality of spaces in the city. water.

TOOLKIT OF WATER SENSITIVE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES Through the use of macro, local and community strategies, our toolkit of water sensitive interventions can be applied as a comprehensive urban-landscape strategy at different urban scales.

City wide strategies such as a a flood prevention landscaped berm near Adhyar river, constructed wastelands to compliment insufficient wastewater treatment facilities, expanding flooding areas near water bodies, natural helophyte filters to treat polluted waters, a policy of limiting urbanization in flood prone areas and water based densification strategies can result in a resilient city.

At a neighborhood level, banks of water bodies can be re-naturalized to stabilize shorelines, low impact development strategies such as retention ponds, green zones, artificial urban wetlands, water retention infrastructure and natural water purification plantations can increase climate resilience.

At the street level we propose Infiltration strips, Bioswales, floating filtration islands in the canal, water squares, and advanced flood proof construction regulations to flood proof chennai.

Policies that encourage implementation of rain water gardens, roof gardens and increased plantation at a building level can further flood proof the city at a granular scale and minimize damage from future events.

In the next phase of the project, we further developed a few of these strategies (demarcated with a blue box) and demonstrated how they can be applied as a interim project.

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STRIP 1.0

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL The competition entry was then followed by our project proposal which is discussed in this report. The project follows a phase wise strategy to achieve the following goals: • • • •

Re-imagining the Public Realm, Restoring Ecology, Prioritizing Environmental Sustainability and Fostering Community Participation all directed towards building a resilient city.

The project is divided into three major phases: Short Term Action Plan: which aims at activating the space and harnessing interest within the site through temporary improvements for quick wins Set of Resilient Green Infrastructure Interim Projects which take this interest forward to restore the ecology of the Buckingham canal and aim at its rejuvenation Long Term Vision Plan: that demonstrates the potential that can be generated through the previous steps.

SHORT TERM ACTION PLAN

The action plan aims at activating a chosen site on the banks of Buckingham Canal to create energy and dynamism and generate interest on the site within the community.

This is done through the use of temporary interventions and pop-up urbanism that can be implemented now with limited funding. Through seasonal events and multipurpose spaces that can be programmed into a dynamic public space through out the year, the plan intents to pull people to the site kickstarting a relationship with the users and the canal edge. Through a menu of programming which has been developed while working with the residents of the area, the Strip 1.0, becomes a new public space in an existing urban wasteland.

ACTION PLAN • • • •

Create a new identity for the canal banks as public spaces.

Encourage a diverse set of activities that involve all strata of the society.

Revitalize existing unused urban spaces.

Develop a bio-diverse and native ecosystem to make the canal more resilient and sustainable.

• Enhance comfort and safety of the users through appropriate amenities, lighting and security.

• Increase the community interaction with the site.

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

LONG TERM VISION PLAN

The project aims at creating a ripple effect beginning with the short term action plan, then transforming into the interim projects and furthering into the long term vision plan. The Strip intends to create a green patch running below the elevated MRTS offering green open spaces to all the communities it passes through. This would offer Chennai's residents a renewed public recreational experience. The initiative will bring about a great shift in the lifestyle amenities offered to the people allowing for a healthier and fitter lifestyle. The Strip will also enhance pedestrian connectivity in the city that currently struggles with great challenges in the transport systems such as vehicular traffic and strikingly low footfall in the MRTS ridership. The green infrastructure suggested in the program will further climate proof chennai, increase its tolerance to future risks while adding much needed active green open space in the city. The design will offer the people a water front in the long run which can add greatly to the fabric and character of the adjoining neighborhoods. The long term vision explores various programmatic components and sets a framework for its execution. Community participation, ideas and improvements from the short term action plan and on going betterment of the canal become the pillars for the long termvision.

BUILDING RESILENCE THROUGH INTERIM PROJECTS After the activation of the site with the help of the short term action plan the project then proposes the introduction of interim projects for canal rejuvenation and water management on site. The integration of green infrastructure elements like bioswales, rain gardens, floating treatment islands and floating treatment wetlands work in tandem to create a holistic system to strengthen the canal and manage the storm water drainage into the canal.

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

The project envisions community participation of all stakeholders living near Buckingham canal, citizens of Chennai as well as all communities affected by floods and climate change. In order to involve the community into the process of rejuvenation of the canal, we have created and executed a set of surveys. In order to ensure maximum outreach, the survey was created in English and Tamil and circulated amongst the community through digital platforms and social media. Walks along with the survey sheets were also conducted at the Thiruvanmiyur station, the stretch between the Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station and the Kottupuram MRTS station. A community participation workshop was also conducted where the community was presented with the design intent of the project and were asked to respond to key concerns like safety, activities, concerns, aspirations etc. This survey was met with an unanimous agreement on the creation of parks, gardens, green trails food festivals and flea markets along the canal which have been incorporated in this proposal.

RAIN GARDEN

INTEGRATED WETLAND TREATMENT

CONCLUSION

Increasing Chennai resiliency and the rejuvenation of the Buckingham canal are long term and capital intensive projects.

Through this project we have strived to focus on what is possible now through limited means to kickstart a larger momentum required to transform the canal into an asset that can help not just with flooding events but also become an integral part of the public life of the city

BIOSWALE

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INTRODUCTION Buckingham Canal: A Chronology Current State of the Canal Key Challenges Project Goals & Framework

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Buckingham Canal, looking towards Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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BUCKINGHAM CANAL : IN CHRONOLOGY Construction • The Buckingham Canal is the first man made saltwater canal.

• 1802 - 1806 Construction • The Canal is constructed as a navigation channel connecting Madras with Ennore.

• In 1855

the canal is further extended to the south.

• During this period the width of canal is 100m and several boats can sail at a time.

• The Canal manages flood waters and ensures tidal balance.

Renovation

• In 1987 the entire MRTS line from • Between 2000 - 2005 encroachment Chennai Beach to Velachery begins on Buckingham canal begins. construction parallel to Buckingham • On January 20 , 2010 The Government canal. of Chennai sets up a restoration trust • In 1992 Chennai Government conto revamp the canal. structs flood defenses such as a • In 2009 various projects are taken retaining wall and changes are imup to improve the canal including plemented in the channels for the dredging and measures for flood canal. protection • In 2014, the Government of Chennai floats a tender for a detailed project plan to restore the Buckingham canal.

Photo montage showing the Buckingham canal during different decades 20

Restoration

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Flood Protection • During the December 2004 tsunami the canal acts as a buffer and pulls in seawater into the canal . • During the 2015 floods the canal acts as a buffer zone and prevents adjacent areas of the city of Chennai from getting flooded.

Current Situation

Project Goals

Currently the width of the canal has been reduced to a mere 12-15 mtrs. in most parts. Untreated sewage is dumped daily into the canal making the water body a city nallah.

The main aim of the project is to rejuvenate the canal and deal with current issues of sewage dumping, flooding while also addressing the issues that will arise in the near future due to global warming. This can be achieved by revitalizing the canal, increasing green spaces, methodological waste segregation and treating the polluted canal water.

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BUCKINGHAM CANAL : CURRENT STATE Buckingham canal is in a current state of neglect and deterioration. The canal was created as an inland transportation solution for the Coromandel coastal cities and also acted as a source of great relief during the droughts and floods faced by Chennai. The canal was created over a series of periodic excavations however design, maintenance and regulations works took a back seat during the planning for the canal.

The state of the canal has deteriorated over time and remains completely ignored by citizenry and authorities alike. This state of detriment began by heavy silting due to serious cyclones that struck the coast. The problem of silting was further intensified by tidal flow from shallow beds of rivers and back waters. The canal travels through different types of soil, most of which are loose in character. Since the canal is unlined the sides began to slip further reducing the depth of the canal. Further factors such as lack of funds and shift of focus to road and rail transport added to the decline of the canal. The ignorance of the authorities to reevaluate and allocate sufficient funds for the maintenance of the canal created a scarcity of resources required for repair and rejuvenation.

Today, Chennai dumps more than 60% of its untreated sewage into the canal. The wellbeing of the canal faces natural and man made challenges including weeding, silting, flow speed, sewage disposal, turbidity and encroachment.

Weeding in the canal water

Panoramic view of the canal and it's surroundings showing stagnation and heavy silting 22

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The current state of the canal affects not just the cleanliness in the surrounding areas, but also possess health hazards and makes its immediate surroundings dormant and detrimentally affects the city’s urban fabric.

The fact that the canal and its surroundings were not viewed as an asset and a great element for development, has given rise to haywire infrastructure around it, deterioration in the quality of its water, large unused areas with uncontrolled landscape, garbage dumping and many more such issues. While the canal, with its history and importance, should be a significant symbol of pride for the city, it lies in an extremely poor condition and now requires intense rejuvenation.

To reverse the damage that has happened over the years, measures to compensate for the same need effective implementation, acceptance and consistency. Once restored, the canal and its surroundings can become an asset for the city.

Overgrown Canal edge

Garbage around the canal

Sewage inlets

Encroachment around the canal

Area under the MRTS tracks

Current canal surroundings

Garbage dumping and construction debris The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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KEY CHALLENGES CONCERNS

CAUSES INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS

ENCROACHMENT PLANNED INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

NO COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGY FOR WATER MANAGEMENT

INEFFICIENT WATER MANAGEMENT

BLOCKED DRAINS INEFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM

INFORMAL SETTLEMENTS

SEWAGE & EFFLUENTS

IMPROPER SEWAGE DISPOSAL INFRASTRUCTURE LACK OF SEWAGE TREATMENT PLANTS

HUGE STATION MASSES

UNSAFE URBAN POCKETS

LACK OF PEDESTRIANS LACK OF PUBLIC SPACE

STAGNANT DIRTY WATER

HEALTH HAZARD

UNRULY LANDSCAPE & WEEDING

GARBAGE DUMP AREA 24

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

EFFECTS LOSS OF BUFFER SPACE ON THE CANAL BANK

STRATEGIES RELOCATION OF ILLEGAL SETTLEMENTS AND STRICT IMPLEMENTATION OF EXISTING LAWS

UNUSED LAND UNDER TRACKS CREATE VIBRANT URBAN/PUBLIC SPACES NARROW CANAL LEADING TO OBSTRUCTION OF WATER FLOW

CREATE ALTERNATE WATER FLOWS TO INCREASE CAPACITY.

WATER SCARCITY FLOODED STREETS HEALTH AND DISEASES

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE STRATERGIES SUCH AS RAIN GARDENS, BIOSWALES AND FILTERATION STRIPS

FLOODING DIRECT FLOW OF POLLUTANTS IN THE CANAL

POLLUTED WATER IN CANAL THROUGH INLETS

DECENTRALISED WATER TREATMENT THROUGH GI

STRICT REUSE OF WATER

LOST OPPORTUNITY COST OF CLEAN WATER

REDUCTION IN CANAL FLOW SILT DEPOSITS

FLOATING TREATMENT WETLANDS CHANGE IN GOVERNMENT POLICIES

STAGNANT WATER

EXCESSIVE FLOODING DURING MONSOON SHORTAGE OF WATER

ADD PUBLIC SPACES AND INVITE THE COMMUNITY INTO THE SPACE

DIRECT FLOW OF POLLUTANTS INTO THE CANAL

FOUL SMELL AND MOSQUITOES SPREAD OF WATER RELATED DISEASES

CANAL WATER TREATMENT PROHIBITING SEWAGE DUMPING

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PROJECT GOALS

Re-imagine the Public Realm

01

Creating more inclusive and interactive public spaces

03

Foster Community Participation

Including the community in decision making and creating a platform to express their aspirations

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02

Restore Ecology

Promoting diverse ecology within the region

04

Prioritize Environmental Sustainability

Making chennai more resilient and establishing a sustainable system for future projects

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

PROJECT FRAMEWORK The holistic aim of the project is to showcase alternate water management techniques which are micro solutions that can be applied at building, site and city scale to reduce the sewage and pollutants from entering the canal. This includes creating a network of resilient green infrastructure that treats run off along the edges of the canal as well as a robust system that treats the existing effluents and sewage being dumped into the canal to restore the quality of the water flowing into the canal.

But to kickstart such a movement, it is imperative that the relationship of the community with the canal edge is first strengthened. To do so, the project proposes a two step process - A Short term action plan which can be implemented now and a long term vision which benefits from the learnings of the short term plan for permanent improvements. The methodology followed includes establishment of phases

0 MONTHS

and the segregation of goals into holistic and step wise processes. Concepts such as Tactical Urbanism have been employed to make sure the achievement of the 'now' goals.

The framework for the design has broader parameters such as sustainability and resilience of the city at its core. Within these parameters the design intent of a renewed public space are placed.

On guaging the success of initial temporary measures, a long term plan for a public canal waterfront can be created.

Future smaller projects can be designed and implemented in conjunction with green infrastructure projects which result in a network of open space and result in climate proofing the city.

8 MONTHS

24 MONTHS

10 YEARS

SHORT TERM VISION PLAN

INTERIM PROJECT

LONG TERM VISION PLAN

Short Term Action Plan

Long Term Vision

The Short Term Vision Plan along with Interim projects consist of ideas that can be tested and implemented through limited funding in the initial phase on a small chosen stretch along the canal banks in Adhyar.

The project imagines the entire stretch between the elevated MRTS tracks to be developed as a green spine connecting communities and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle.

Small programmatic components can be derived by understanding needs of adjacent communities and through learnings from the short term action plan.

Through pop-up urbanism and tactile urbanism methodologies, unused pockets along the canal edge can be activated through citizen led initiatives. Programming for this phase has been derived through constant interaction with the community to understand the kind of public space desired.

During this phase GI projects such a bioswales, rain garden and a integrated wetland treatment system to treat the canal are proposed which can be scaled after evaluating its impact. These act as interim projects which can be further developed with a long term stratergy in place.

The Long term Vision Plan should be implemented by keeping in mind two principle ideas : • Restoring the Canal • Developing the unused areas around the canal to create a public asset The project does not propose what the new urban space should be, but rather sets guidelines for various types of public spaces to ensure the resultant space in universal, inclusive and sustainable.

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THE SITE: STRIP 1.0 Locating the Strip 1.0 Site Context Generating a Collective Vision

Strip 1.0 is the beginning of activating the first site along the edge of Buckingham Canal in order to restore and activate it. Strip 1.0 is the first step working at the amalgamation of public realm and ecological sustainability and marks the foundation stone for a larger, well connected and invigorating public space with a ecological goal at the core.

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Buckingham Canal Bank, Under the MRTS Line , 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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LOCATING THE STRIP 1.0 The site selection for the demonstration of the proposal has been done keeping in mind the maximum impact and highest footfall. The parameters for site selection have been derived from Jan Gehl’s book “Cities for people” altered taking into consideration factors such as context and user group. The goal of the design process is not

QUALITATIVE CRITERIA

01

Accessibility:

02

Unused urban spaces:

03

Proximity to amenities:

04

An inactive void between active spaces:

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only qualitative in nature but also technically grounded.

Considering the above the site criteria parameters have been divided into two major categories – qualitative and technical, which are further divided into secondary criteria.

The site must be easily accessible to pedestrian as well as vehicular thoroughfare owing to the presence of the OMR road along the length of the site. The future developements on the site must also work in alliance with the bigger idea of accessibility.The chosen site must have a fairly consistent and flat topography that allows for easy wheel chair access along with good walkability for pedestrian access. This will make the site inclusive in nature serving to all economic classes of the society. Other than the tangible physical access the site must also allow a direct visual access to the passers and the commuters of the MRTS.

The selected site should be unused and unfrequented by the citizens due to factors such as lack of shelter, comfortable seating, activities, cleanliness, etc. The site must not participate in the to and fro movement of the pedestrian traffic neither should it serve as a pause point for the same. Hence being classified as unused and inactive.

The site must be in tandem and in close proximity with MRTS stations. Public amenities see a large number of the population in a periodic fashion. Hence choosing a site adjacent to the same would subsequently mean high footfall in the public spaces designed around them. These spaces would not only satisfy the need of the encompassing areas but also create a prolific environment.

The site is surrounded by active spaces such as IT Parks, institutes such as the Institute of Mathematical sciences and the Press Institute of India and large institutions such as the MGR Film city. As a result of which, the site should be able to function as a breathing space.

High footfall region: As per a report created by the Times of India published in 2009, the daily footfall experienced by the Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station is a startling 7596 people ranking as the third busiest station on the MRTS. The proximity of the site to the station or one of a similar stature guarantees a good footfall on the site.

Safety Barriers The presence of the canal behaves like a natural barrier through landscape. This feature behaves like a safety feature and allows one to control the penetration into the site.

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

07

Sense of belonging and commitment to the site:

The site but be surrounded by residential areas that could add to the demographic expected on the site. The site would hence have the potential and the location to serve the citizens residing around it by adding to the public amenities available to them within a given radius.

Surrounding residential areas would create a set of population with a strong sense of belonging and a strong commitment to the utilization and revitalization of the site. This would be ideal for environmental initiatives such as the building and maintaining of Floating treatment wetlands and Bioswales.

08 01

Sewage Outfalls:

The sewage outfalls along the Canal require immediate attention. The selected stretch must house sewage outfalls that require immedate intervention.

TECHNICAL CRITERIA Convenience:

The site must be located close to the MRTS stations since it is very convenient for the people to access and participate.Convinience of the people becomes vital to the sucess of any intervention.

02 Development Plans :

Site must not interfere with any existing or future development. Also it shouldn’t have any detrimental impacts on neighboring land uses. The design for the site should in no way interrupt with the development of the new MRTS station proposed along it. On the contrary the two would function in tandem with each other.

03 Sizing and accommodation of functions

Site must be large enough to accommodate the following: A minimum number of garden plots to be viable in the long term A composting system Rainwater tanks Seating areas and shelter for gardens Garden beds including raised garden beds for people with mobility issues

04 Land Ownership and acquirement

The land owners for the plot must be government bodies or alike so that the process of acquirement for dedicated public spaces should be a smooth process. This further reflects as no costs in legal and compensation battles which could be utilised for the betterment of the design.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

31

SITE CONTEXT INDIRA NAGAR STATION

RESIDENTIAL

MIXED USE

COMMERCIAL 32

THIRUVANMIYUR STATION Map showing landuse around Strip 1.0

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

LOCATION The selected site is located between the two MRTS stations namely Indira Nagar station and Thiruvanmiyur station and spans a distance of 800m in length. The site is adjacent to Buckingham Canal and has various institutions and residential areas in its vicinity. The average residing population accounted for during the 2001 census was 13% of the total population of Chennai.

The stretch is located between a residential zone on one side and IT hub on another and hence has the potential to attract high amount of footfall during peak hours. Thiruvanmiyur MRTS is one of the few stations which has the highest amount of footfall within the network.

During a March 2008 survey , 3246 people traveled in and out of Thiruvanmiyur station making it the 5th busiest station in the city of Chennai .

The banks of the canal house an array of inhabitants. The canal acts as a divider between the contrasting strata of society. Along the western edge of the canal, people reside in simple homes belonging to the lower income groups of Chennai that many would call “encroachments�. In the Kotturpuram stretch, the community shows great sense of belonging to the site and nurtures the subsequent open space between the canal and the houses as their very own backyard. The bank on the other side of the canal houses the MRTS stations and large institutions such a IIT Madras, Anna University and large IT complexes such as the Ramanujan IT complex. There is a varied and mobile crowd experienced by this stretch that becomes an ever transitioning part of site identity.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

33

34

Map representing major areas around Chennai

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

HIGH FOOTFALL ZONES AROUND The site is surrounded by prestigious and crowd pulling institutional buildings on the western side. Buildings in the Ramanujan IT park have a daily footfall of approximately 58,000 people. This only accounts for regular footfall and does not include additional diurnal migrating footfall. Institutions like NIFT or Anna University add to the variety and bring in a different set of demographic expected on site.The varying age group add to the safety and energy of the space and ensure use of the space at varying times of the day.

RAMANUJAN IT PARK

MGR FILM CITY MGR FILM CITY

JOURNALISM COLLEGE

RESEARCH LIBRARY

NIFT INSTITUTE The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

35

Bridge provides easy access to communities of east bank

Inactive urban edge

QUALITY OF SPACE

Canal near site filled with construction waste 36

Vacant land leading to a unsafe urban edge in late hours

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Vast unused space near Thiruvanmiyur station

Located exactly adjacent to the Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station, this stretch of unused land has a great potential of becoming a community asset.

Though easily connected and accessible near a foot over bridge, the current overgrown area is an urban void and becomes a unsafe zone in the night.

Due to the stretch being neglected, the adjoining Buckingham canal stretch is also neglected and dumped with construction debris.

The strip, shaded by the elevated tracks can become a new public space and add to the public realm of the adjoining area.

Wild vegetation creates unsafe urban conditions

Debris dumped on site

Site can become a community asset with easy connectivity The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

37

INDIRA NAGAR STATION

STORM WATER INLET

THIRUVANMIYUR STATION

MAJOR SEWAGE INLETS MINOR SEWAGE INLETS

38

Map representing Sewage & Storm water drains into the Canal

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

CURRENT STATE OF CANAL BETWEEN INDIRA NAGAR AND THIRUVAMIYUR The fact that the canal lies in a current state of neglect and deterioration is confirmed by the state of the canal between Indira Nagar and Thiruvanmiyur. The canal remains completely ignored by the people and authorities alike and continues to deteriorate day after day.

The sides of the canal have illegal encroachments and slums that have come up over time. Due to these settlements, small sewage outlets are now draining untreated sewage into the canal making the stretch seem like a sewer. Larger storm water drains, mainly located near the two MRTS stations are directed into the canal and carry runoff from adjacent roads .

Unconsciously dumped construction debris, carelessly disposed off plastic, unruly weeding are evident reasons for the deterioration of the canal in this stretch.

Not only does all of this contribute to causing serious harm to the well-being of the canal, but it also poses major risk to human health and the environment as a whole.

Dumping around the canal edge

Encroachment around the canal

Area around and under the MRTS

Sewage inlets The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

39

With considerable changes taking place in the city for future development, a new underground metro station has been planned that will be constructed close to Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station This will make it more convenient and reliable for people traveling to the commercial hub near Thiruvanmiyur station .

A new18 m wide canal road has also been planned to be constructed close to Buckingham canal which can further negatively impact the canal. While the road may help to ease out the current stress and make commute easier for the residents, it further threatens the canal.

PROPOSED 18M WIDE ROAD

40

Source - CMDA Website

Map showing future additions planned

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

INDIRA NAGAR STATION

OMR R OAD

4th Cross Street

PRO D 18

POSE

e venu 2nd A

M WID

D

E ROA

AD

SERVIC

E RO

OMR

AL

CAN

0

IP 1.

STR

MGR Film City

MGR Film City Road

THIRUVANMIYUR STATION

Elnet Software City

Map showing location of Strip 1.0 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

41

GENERATING A COLLECTIVE VISION To better understand the site and generate a collective vision for Strip 1.0, we employed various media to conduct multiple surveys. A holistic survey for a stretch of 3.5 km was conducted by UDC that collected programmatic and demographic information. To build upon this information, The Blank Slate conducted social media surveys and installed survey booths at Thiruvanmiyur station in order to collect more specific information pertaining to our chosen site. To engage communities on both sides of the canal, the surveys were followed by a community participation workshop where residents were oriented and familiarized with possibilities on how the canal edge could be developed.

Survey conducted by The Blank Slate at the Thiruvanmiyur station

Community participation workshop conducted by The Blank Slate

42

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY URBAN DESIGN COLLECTIVE UDC conducted a survey to understand the community’s aspirations for the site, their current understanding and programmatic needs. On 13th May 2018, a perception mapping walk was conducted along the 3.5 km demonstration stretch, i.e. from the Kotturpuram MRTS station till the Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station, for this survey.

Participant citizens were asked to experience the stretch through their 5 senses and draw inferences. The survey questions were formatted in a way to collect demographic data about the residents as well. A total of 250 responses were collected and processed to understand the relationship of these residents and households to Buckingham Canal. The survey result showed that most citizens would want to see parks and nature trails along the canal with activities such as cycling to activate the same.

Survey result graph created by UDC

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

43

SURVEY CONDUCTED BY THE BLANK SLATE Conducting surveys is necessary to understand and learn more about a neighborhood, its surroundings and the citizens understanding of a cause. We employed various methods of surveying, such as online surveys via Survey Legend, Instagram polls, on site community participation survey and increased outreach using Facebook and Twitter.

Involvement of the community in key to the success of creation of a design program. This was done keeping in mind barriers such as language and accessibility. The survey was conducted in both Tamil and English in order to involve every section of the society. The survey was visual in nature in order to connect with its participants. Accessibility to the survey was kept in mind and survey sheets were placed at Thiruvanmiyur station. A link for a digital format survey was also shared amongst the community groups through WhatsApp to increase outreach.

502 Responses

246

3%

66%

22%

17%

256

2%

Participants of the survey belonged to various parts of Chennai and from areas immediately along the length of the canal.

44

Q. WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE ALONG THE CANAL ?

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Participants were permitted to choose as many events as they pleased .

17%

23%

20%

19%

PUBLIC TOILETS

CHILDREN'S PARK

13%

20%

17%

24%

DOG PARK

CYCLING TRACKS

FOOD STALLS

EDUCATIONAL GARDEN

24%

18%

19%

25%

GAMES AREA

MULTIUSE LAWN

OUTDOOR FITNESS

CANAL BRIDGE

18%

17%

16%

24%

PERFORMANCE AREA

READING AREA

SCULPTURES

SEATING AREA

23%

20%

20%

14%

SOCIAL SPACES

INSTALLATIONS

SENIOR CITIZEN ZONES

VEGETABLE GARDENS

COMMUNITY GARDEN

SKATING PARKS The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Q. WHAT EVENTS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE ALONG THE CANAL ?

Participants were permitted to choose as many events as they pleased .

19%

29%

32%

FLEA MARKET

YOGA EVENTS

36%

33%

CULTURAL FESTIVALS

FOOD FESTIVAL

MUSIC EVENTS

58%

34%

34%

FESTIVAL MARKET

GARDENING DAYS

NEIGHBORHOOD EVENT

ART FESTIVALS

21%

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS RECEIVED DURING THE SURVEY

BOATING AND WATER ACTIVITIES

VERTICAL GARDENS ACCESS FOR THE DIFFERENTLY ABLED

SKILL DEVELOPMENT CENTRE

GHATS AND BOARDWALKS

WATER WAYS AND TRANSPORT ADVENTURE TRAILS

AIR FILTERS WAY FINDING SIGNAGES

46

MEDICINAL GARDENS

ORGANIC FOOD FARMING

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION WORKSHOP

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The community participation workshop was conducted in a three fold process. The first step was to orient the community with the short term action plan described in the next chapter. During the workshop, participants were presented with our design intent and methodology and were asked to respond to key concerns like safety, activities, aspirations etc. After the orientation presentation, the community was given an opportunity to express what they believe would be the ideal solution for the selected stretch. We also introduced a set of words which offered a frame work for the community to comprehend the parameters to be considered which served as a guideline for their expression. The workshop was welcomed by all and became a bare canvas for the expression of contrasting ideas with the wellbeing of the canal and the city. Some addressed the need for safety by suggesting to cordon of certain sectors of society while other encouraged the creation of an inclusive space and involvement of lower income groups. A few participants expressed the need for revenue generation through ticketed entries and a scanning process to ensure safety while some referred to safety as the wellbeing of ecology and suggested transforming the area near the canal into an eco park.

Community Mapping during the workshop The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

47

WORKSHOP RESULTS Public Toilets

73%

Senior’s Zone

47%

Children’s Park

60%

Community Park

40%

Cycling Tracks

53%

Dog Park

40%

Educational Park

40%

Food Stalls

53%

Games Area

53%

Multiuse Lawn

47%

Outdoor Fitness

80%

Canal Crossing

60%

Performance Area

40%

Reading Areas

53%

Sculpture Parks

27%

Seating Areas

40%

Social Spaces

40%

Art Installations

20%

Vegetable Garden

33%

Skating Park

33% 20%

48

40%

60%

80%

100%

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

CONCLUSION The surveys were conducted keeping in mind the demographics of the user group to generate a collective vision and demonstrate potential design possibilities.

The survey conducted by UDC and The Blank Slate used divergent paths where one used all the five senses to create an analysis where as the survey conducted by The Blank Slate used a visual stimuli to help the residents express their vision for the site. However, the surveys converged when they both showed highest votes in their programmatic studies for parks and gardens followed by cycling and nature trails.

The initial survey conducted by UDC gave a holistic option of events and activities where as the survey conducted by The Blank Slate gave the residents an opportunity to specify their aspirations for events to be held in the space. In this category maximum set of votes were bagged by festival markets followed by food festivals and gardening activities. The surveys were followed by the community participation workshops which further detailed out the results received by the surveys and also introduced new factors to design such as safety,lighting,activities etc. This further shaped the design strategies to become more refined and user specific. The different form of surveys allowed us to collect data of a varied kind that added value and intensity to the approach.

The survey helped us identify what the citizens of Chennai would envision as a program for the activation of the Buckingham canal banks. This also helped us acquaint ourselves with the priorities of the community. This involvement of the community not only made the design process more efficient but also gave the community a sense of belonging to the design and harnesses a sense of interest within the site. All in all the community participation workshop became the foundation for the programmatic study and the final proposal.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

49

SHORT TERM ACTION PLAN

50

Rationale Our Approach Case Studies Our Vision Place-making Strategies Menu for Programming Event Mapping Design Intervention Tactical Design Elements

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Buckingham Canal looking towards Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

51

RATIONALE Through our project we intent to propose time based interventions that grow into the next intervention to reinforce and amplify the impacts of short term mini projects. We propose that revitalization of the canal edge begins with a short term action plan that aims at activating the chosen site through quick wins, create energy and dynamism and generate interest in the site within the community’s heart and mind. The short term plan also aims at collecting much needed financial and social capital required for a permanent solution. The short term plan will engage the government

bodies associated with the site and draw their attention to the aspirations and the concerns of the users and equip them with data required for a massive canal restoration project. Through this multi step process, the short term plan builds the foundation for the actual long term vision.

ACTION PLAN

01 02 03 04 05 06

Create a new identity for the canal banks as public spaces.

Encourage a diverse set of activities that involve all strata of the society.

Revitalize existing unused urban spaces.

Develop a bio diverse and native ecosystem to make the canal more resilient and sustainable.

Enhance comfort and safety of the users through appropriate amenities, lighting and security.

Increase community interaction with the site.

+

ACTIVATION BY PROGRAMMING

52

RESILIENCY PROJECTS

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

OUR APPROACH The short term vision plan uses tactical urbanism to activate the site and to create interest in the community regarding the space. This interest further can be translated into efforts for the application of alternate water management system created and run by the community. The short vision plan creates an impetus for the growth of the long term vision

plan. The plan includes events and temporary functions allotted to the spaces that pull the community into the site. This further creates interest in the community which can translate into continuous community participation and stakeholder-ship in the execution of the long term vision plan.

WHAT IS TACTICAL URBANISM ?

"Tactical Urbanism is an approach to neighborhood building that uses short term, low cost and scalable interventions and policies to catalyze long term change."

Tactical urbanism is a catalyst process that employs low cost, short term interventions to create a long term change. This approach not only offers local solutions for local design problems but also aims at realistic goals. Due to the scale of the intervention being small, the initial capital required for testing solutions is much smaller. as well and thus these projects can be implemented quickly.

WHY USE THIS APPROACH ?

01

Tactical urbanism helps draw attention of the citizens to the site.

02

Tactical urbanism helps foster public engagement with the site and the concerns of the site.

03 04

Brings the community together and creates a platform for the community to work together for the community.

The approach allows for room to test the feasibility of certain aspects of the long term plan.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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01 CASE STUDY

UPVAN ARTS FESTIVAL LOCATION

The Upvan Arts Festival was started with a vision to create a platform for established professionals and budding artists to come together and open avenues of our rich cultural heritage to common citizens.

This event happens every year and has been going on for a period of one week .

54

: THANE CITY , INDIA

RELEVANCE: TACTICAL URBANISM

:

LESSONS LEARNT GIVING A VOICE TO LOCAL ARTISANS AND CRAFTSMAN BY ENGAGING IN STREET FEAST

02 CASE STUDY

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

THE OVAL LOCATION The Oval in Philadelphia is an example of Pop - up Urbanism that opens up with community programming, events and activities. Periodically the Oval opens up a part of the park for the people.

It’s a place activated for four weeks and a portion of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway transforms into a grand promenade with a different theme each year. The site is programmed with urban games, temporary cafes and art installations and events such as movie nights, yoga days etc are organized during this period.

: PHILADELPHIA , USA

RELEVANCE: POP-UP URBANISM LESSONS LEARNT : INSPIRATION FOR PROGRAMMING and CURATING EVENTS

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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OUR VISION

VISION Creating a vibrant public space that contributes to the fabric of the city physically, ecologically and culturally out of an otherwise under used urban pocket. To harness a connection between the community and the banks of the canal by allowing the community to create and nurture the space for itself.

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

"How can we revitalize Buckingham canal for the City of Chennai?"

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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PLACE-MAKING STRATEGIES Place-making strategies intend to integrate the social, cultural and physical fabric of the place along with the transformation of the space over time. The focus of the place making strategies is to integrate and capitalize on the communities aspirations with the assets of the design. These strategies aim at creating a space intimately connected to the people to demonstrate how their everyday spaces can be re-imagined. The place making effort can be categorized not only as a strategy but also become an integral part of the process of design .

Develop a Unique identity

Entice people to linger

Activate edges

Using events to create energy

Create a consistent relationship between the community and the site 58

1. DEVELOP A UNIQUE IDENTITY

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

• Use lighting, architecture and materials to develop a unique identity.

• Show case an overlap with the urban environment and the canal • Emphasis on inclusive character

2. ENTICE PEOPLE TO LINGER • • • •

Movable seating is both comfortable and gives users a sense of control Creating planted buffers between moving vehicles and user activities Creating shaded spaces that are comfortable for people to inhabit Creating elements that can contribute to the experience of the people in order to create a memory that attracts them to visit again.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

59

3. ACTIVATE EDGES • Create a porous design to allow visual and physical access.

• Bring the inside out • Energize any surfaces or blank walls on site.

4. CREATE A CONSISTENT RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE COMMUNITY AND THE EDGES • Creating a walkable area using the sidewalk and addressing the intersection of the road and the sidewalk and the site and the canal.

60

5. USING EVENTS TO CREATE ENERGY

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

• Programming with seasonal activities and cultural celebrations • Creating a flexible space that can be opened up and closed to create exclusive events on designated days.

• Utilizing the sidewalks as an extension of the new public space

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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MENU FOR PROGRAMMING The objective of the Menu for Programming is to create a set of place making elements that can be further employed to achieve certain set of goals that are aspired for any other strip. The menu consists of elements that could be used altogether or in permutations and combinations along various parts of the canal based on the demands of the space and its context.

How each element activates a space and aids its growth as an urbanized area has been mentioned below:

62

Multiuse Pavilions

Community Gardens

Cafes

Multipurpose lawns are open patches of greens that can be used by the people as they wish to. The lawns not only function as a patch of landscape but also allow for a flexible space that can host an array of events.

Community gardens act as a ongoing activity that brings the community to nurture their work during a designated periods of time. It also functions as a nursery to grow native plants which can be later planted to restore ecological balance along the canal banks.

Cafes not only contribute to the social fabric of the place but also play an important role in the revenue generation required for the site. Cafes function as highly successful pull factors attracting large numbers of varied crowds to the site.

Gaming Zones

Social Gathering spaces

Green Infrastructure

Gaming areas add vibrancy and a sense of dynamism to the spaces.

These areas attract all age groups equally and encourage socializing amongst the community. A dedicated space for the same allows for a meeting point for people of similar interests.

Dedicated social gathering spaces foster the communities sense of togetherness and allow for people to meet new people amongst the community. This creates a sense of belonging amongst the people and a connect is created with the space.

Bioswales and raingardens not only contribute to the ecological balance of the space by creating a home for native flora and fauna species but also help in controlling the floods and allow for sustainable growth of the area. These elements also add to the landscape of the area.

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Render showing the Games area The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

63

EVENT MAPPING Events such as festival markets, art festivals , food festivals, flea markets add to the character of the space. These prove to be great incentives for the people across the city to visit the site. Events also create great opportunities for revenue generation and bring out the complete potential of the space.

COMMUNITY GARDENING EVENTS FOOD FESTIVALSÂ

TAMIL NEW YEARS UMBRELLA PA I N T I N G EVENTS

FLEA MARKETS

64

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The events could also be planned in a weekly pattern that happen periodically over the months as well. This would create a connection of the people with the site and generate dynamism and interest within the site. This allows the events to also generate capital and give the people an opportunity to contribute to the ecological wellbeing of the site.

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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DESIGN INTERVENTION The design plan attempts to create an invigorating public space and shows how programming and green infrastructure come together on the site.

• Community garden with a nursery and work space which • Social seating spaces interspersed on the site offer would have limited access to interested community resting locations. These are situated around green members. infrastructure interim projects increasing awareness • The multi-functional space with a stage can be used for about alternative water management techniques. markets, performances, movie screenings etc.

• Green infrastructure employed for canal rejuvenation • The active zone with games such as the inflatable human are explained in the subsequent chapters. foosball, life size jenga, pacman and bowling attract the young population working in this area.

• Cafes with shaded outdoor seating also attract people during late hours. These not only act as anchors but also increase safety in the area. It functions as a pull factor and a pause space in the otherwise dull surrounding. The cafe opens to the footpath activating the edge to the public space beyond.

11 12

9

8 3 1 2

4

6

16

5

7 15

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

THIRUVANMIYUR MRTS

THE STRIP 1.0

INDIRA NAGAR MRTS LEGEND 1.

Multiuse Public space 2.

Community garden 3.

Work area 4.

Gardening shed 5.

Rain garden 6.

Seating zone 7.

Shaded pods 8. Café

9.

Constructed wetland 10. Bioswale 11.

Natural checkdam 12.

Floating treatment wetland 13.

Game zone 14. Entrance 15.

Informal social spaces 16. Stage

13

RESERVED FOR LONG TERM DEVELOPMENT

THIRUVANMIYUR STATION

8

8

14

10

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Projection Screens

Opportunities for revenue generation & crowd pulling

Moveable Planters Created shaded spaces that are comfortable for people to inhabitat

Games & Activity Zones

An active zone to create memories to attract people to keep visiting

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Cafes

Creating Revenue generating anchors

Performance Stage Programming cultural celebrations

AN ACTIVE GAME ZONE FOR ALL AGE GROUPS

ENTICING PEOPLE TO LINGER

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Rain Garden

Emphasis on resiliency & porous infrastructure

70

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Moveable Seating Pods

Vibrant & comfortable seating inviting people

Pet Friendly Park Play space for pet owners

A NEW KIND OF INCLUSIVE PUBLIC SPACE DEVELOPING AN UNIQUE IDENTITY

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

71

The Garden Shop

A community nursery operated by the residents

Casual Sit Outs

Creating Social zones within the communal farm

72

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Street Art

Energizing blank surfaces with art

Moveable Garden Beds A communal asset maintained by residents

A SHARED SPACE OPERATED BY THE COMMUNITY CREATING SYNERGIES

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Outdoor Cafe

Creating an active edge for increased safety

Flower Beds

Creating a pleasant pedestrian experience

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Wall Art

Energizing blank surfaces with art

Bioswales

Planted buffers between pedestrians & vehicles

A SAFER NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVATING EDGES

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

75

Pop- Up Markets Programming Seasonal Activities

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Interactive Exhibits

Integrating elements to contribute to an experience

Street Art

Energizing blank surfaces with art

A DYNAMIC MULTIPURPOSE SPACE USING EVENTS TO CREATE ENERGY

The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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Tactical DESIGN ELEMENTS

78

MOVABLE TREE PITS

FARMING PLANTERS

FURNITURE FROM SCRAP

The movable tree pits are made out of wooden crates and are used to create variation in spaces by acting as a natural barrier.

Farming planters are used to provide a community garden experience. These planters can be made up of wooden crates, milk crates, wooden cartons etc that work for the long run.

Seating for cafes and reading areas can be created from scrap like wooden crates , milk crates etc which can by recreated and reused.

These material are sturdy and last for longer period with minimal to no cost of maintenance.

TOOLKIT STORAGE

GRAFFITI

MOVABLE PLANTERS

All handy materials required on a day to day basis and for weekend activities can be storage in a storage toolkit.

This toolkit can be created with materials such as wood, metal, cardboard etc.

Graffiti Walls can be created and recreated time and again according to the events that take place periodically.

These walls act as a background for the festivals and can attract a large amount of crowd.

Medium height fruit bearing and flower bearing plants can be brought in to add aura and create aesthetics visually.

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

FOOD STALL

URBAN FURNITURE

CONTAINER-ENCLOSED SPACES

The stalls and food markets planned on site can be made up of shipping containers that are sturdy and easy to fetch. These containers can be refurbished and painted according to choice and be used as a cafe.

Urban Furniture mainly consisting of movable chairs and tables are quite swift since they can be adjusted anywhere in the space according to need.

Shipping Containers are well-suited for use in creating cafes since they are simple and can be easily stacked and decked in creating spaces of different sizes.

RESTING PODS

TURF AND PEBBLE FLOORING

GAMES AREA

Resting Pods can be designed for passers by to halt and enjoy the city greenscape .

These pods can be made in an interesting manner with various colorful materials that create a vibrancy of space.

Turf and Pebble Flooring of various The games zone can be a social space shapes , forms , design and color can where various activities such as dance , be incorporated on site to create warmth music , yoga etc can take place. and make the space more inviting.

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GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE INTERIM PROJECTS Building resilience through scalable pilot projects Case Studies Analyzing Canal Condition Developing Resiliency menu based on canal condition Integrated Water Management Community Participation monitoring & control

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Buckingham Canal, from the Thiruvanmiyur MRTS station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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BUILDING RESILIENCE THROUGH SCALABLE INTERIM PROJECTS INTRODUCTION Chennai has been facing drastic climatic changes subtly over a long period of time and in smaller more stronger spurts on occasions like the 2005 floods and the 2017 floods. The canal has been the pillar of resilience for the city. However, The canal is in a current state of neglect and deterioration. One of the sources of pollution in the canal is urban run off from roads and urban spaces. The OMR so closely located to the canal has run offs that include metals and chemicals associated with road transport. The open area located along banks has become a free grazing ground for cattle because of which the fecal matter of the grazing animals is also a big part of the run off. Chennai also discards 60% of its untreated sewage waste into the canal.

Through the length of the canal many sewage outlets have been mis connected into the storm water drains adding to the sedimentation issue.

Green infrastructure incorporates both the natural environment and engineered systems to provide clean water, conserve ecosystem values and functions, and provide a wide array of benefits to people and wildlife. The term green infrastructure means planting trees and restoring wetlands, rather than building a costly new water treatment plant. It means choosing water efficiency instead of building a new water supply dam.

Various activities can be housed and created around the GI elements. The GI elements can also be created with the participation of the community themselves. Many educational and institutional activities can be planned around the GI elements. The GI elements add to the landscape of the site situated around the cafes and other activity zones. These elements other than adding to the ecological balance of the space also become centres for activities. GI is economically friendly , efficient and improves the quality of life. We have designed a series of test projects to demonstrate alternative water management techniques, integrated as landscape elements in the design.The pilot projects aim at creating a set of green infrastructure initiatives that when put together will form a strong and unified system for water management.

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These and many such pollutants become a part of the sedimentation in the canal. The canal also faces problems like silting, weeding, collection of non biodegradable substances, storm water run offs and sewage collection, human and animal excreta in addition to the sedimentation problem. In order to clean the canal water and rejuvenate the canal all these concerns pose as the immediate challenges.

We propose to use a low cost low maintenance sustainable system which acts within a smaller timeline and budget as compared to laying out and maintaining a sewage treatment plan. A sustainable sewage treatment plant employs biological solutions and systems to counter the above problems.

CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS

RAIN GARDENS

GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE

BIOSWALES

FLOATING TREATMENT WETLANDS

CANAL REJUVENATION

PROPOSED GI PROJECTS

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Green infrastructure inves tments help in the following ways:

Climate change adaptation/mitigation Reduces heat island effect

Quality of life and place Pride in communities

Health and Wellbeing Reduces Pollution Creates recreational opportunities

Flood alleviation & management Recharges groundwater

Economic growth & investment Attracts buisnesses

Encourgaes smart growth Conserves open space Revaitalizes urban centers

Enchances property value

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03 CASE STUDY

HELOPHYTE FILTERS ERASMUSGRACHT LOCATION The helophyte filters are a set of two oval shaped filters placed on the water surface. The filters clean the water in the canal and offer a decentralized solution for sewage water treatment. Primarily the filter removes the organic pollutants present in the canal and proves to be more successful financially and performance wise. The character of the canal is also altered and a pedestrian bridge adds to the publically inclusive character of the intervention.

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:

JOOS BANCKWESWEG, AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS.

RELEVANCE: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE LESSONS LEARNT : RESTORING WATERBODIES

BY ECOLOGICAL ENGINEERING

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04 CASE STUDY

BAIMA CANAL RESTORER LOCATION The Baima canal restorer by Todd Ecological in China is a case of ecological engineering in combination with the creation of a public amenity. The city emptied its commercial wastewater and sewage into an 80 km network of canals before emptying it into a nearby river. A 600-meter canal named Baima, considered one of the worst in the city, had extreme problems with odor and floating solids created by the influx of thousands of gallons per day of untreated domestic sewage. A Restorer on the Baima canal consisting of 12,000 plants composed of 20 native species was planted in the canal. Constructed with a walkway down the center, the Restorer has met water quality goals and created a prized recreation area for the members of the community. The Restorer was able to reduce odors, eliminate floating solids, and drastically improve the aesthetics of the neighborhood.

The clarity of the water in the canal increased from less than 6 inches to several feet, while meeting several secondary effluent standards.

: FUZHOU, CHINA

RELEVANCE: ECOLOGCIAL SEWAGE TREATMENT LESSONS LEARNT : RESTORING THE CANAL BY ECOLOGICAL ENGINEERING

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05 CASE STUDY

FLOATING TREATMENT ISLANDS LOCATION Floating treatment islands are artificially created islands that employ natural processes to purify and treat water bodies.

Major pollutant reduction mechanisms have been spotted in FTWs. Floating treatment islands have been demonstrated to be successful in effectively removing waterborne pollutants. Many floating treatment islands can also be used as storm water catchments. The following examples are a few demonstrations about how floating treatment islands have been designed and executed in our country.

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: VARIOUS PARTS OF INDIA

RELEVANCE: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE LESSONS LEARNT : CREATING ARTIFICIAL

ISLANDS TO REPLICATE NATURAL PROCESSES FOR WATER MANAGEMENT

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NEKNAMPUR LAKE , HYDERABAD The 3,500 sq ft Floating Treatment wetland has been designed using STYROFOAM, BAMBOO, GUNNY BAGS, COIR etc.

This floating island is MULTI-LAYERED and installed close to the inlet of the lake. When the water passes through all the layers, it gets filtered, eventually resulting in optimum fresh water.

This combination used is MOSQUITO REPELLENT while also helping in the cleaning of water and INCREASING THE BIODIVERSITY of the lake.

HEBBAGODI LAKE , BENGALURU The 12,000-sq ft island has strips of vegetation that crisscross the waterbody. Floating rafts are built with REUSED PVC PIPES making use of the HYDROPHONICAL

PLANTS. SILT-REMOVING and DEWEEDING OPERATIONS were taken up on a war footing. ENERGY-EFFICIENT CASCADING AERATORS were installed to increase the level of dissolved oxygen in in water.

UNDERGROUND CONDUITS were laid to address

sewage spills and stench.

KAIKONDRAHALLI LAKE , BENGALURU The base of the Floating Treatment Wetland was created using PVC PIPES AND DISCARDED PLASTIC BOTTLES, NETTING , A NYLON MESH, and TAGS. The idea behind the construction of this FTW was to Reduce EUTROPHICATION (the depletion of oxygen in a water body due to excessive nutrient accumulation, which kills aquatic animals), improve the landscape of urban lakes, and PRESERVE their shores through wave absorption.

POISAR RIVER , MUMBAI The base of the FTW is made using 500 DISCARDED PLASTIC BOTTLES which were tied together to create a makeshift ‘mop’.

The plants in the wetland provide a PECULIAR HABITAT

FOR BENEFICIAL MICRO-ORGANISMS IN THE ROOT-ZONE (which also pump oxygen from the atmosphere into the bed) and jointly PURIFY THE SEWAGE while the plants are automatically nurtured by the nitrogen and phosphorous in the sewage.

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INDIRA NAGAR STATION

ION 1

SECT

ION 2

SECT

MAJOR SEWAGE INLETS MINOR SEWAGE INLETS 88

THIRUVANMIYUR STATION

PROPOSED METRO STATION

N3

SECTIO

Map showing the major and minor sewage inlets - Created by The Blankslate

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

SECTION 1

SECTION 2

SECTION 3

Analyzing Sewage and Storm Water Outfalls: Different elements of Green infrastructure have been recommended after careful site analysis as the condition of the site and its context have heavily affected the state of the canal water. Identifying the Sewage outlets and Storm Water drains has helped place and propose the variety of GI elements that will ensure that the water entering the canal form the vicinity is clean as well as the current situation of the water is also taken care of.

Looking towards Thiruvanmayur Station

Beside Indira Nagar Station The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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DEVELOPING RESILIENCY MENU BASED ON CANAL CONDITION CITY LEVEL INTERVENTIONS

NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL INTERVENTIONS

STREET LEVEL INTERVENTIONS

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Berm

Limit Urbanization

No Infrastructural Waste

Reduction of Paved Areas

Re-naturalization of Banks

Natural Filters for Water Purification

Infiltration fields and strips with above ground storage

Visibility of Asset

Raising The Ground Floor Level

Bioswales

Rain water harvesting

Green Roof

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Expansion Of Flood Area

Water Based Densification

Constructed Wetlands

Helophytes

Retention-ponds

Water Retention Infrastructure

Adding green zones

Rain garden

Floating Filtration Islands

Water Squares

Raising The Ground Water Level

Natural filters

Waste Water Treatment Plant

Use of Ground Cover and Shrubbery

A RESILIENCY MENU FOR BUCKINGHAM CANAL WHICH CAN BE ADOPTED BASED ON SITE CONDITIONS AND TARGET SPECIFIC ECOLOGICAL CONCERNS. The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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INTEGRATED WATER MANAGEMENT The proposed Integrated water management system for restoring Buckingham canal includes creating a network of small scale green infrastructure projects. A raingarden, bioswale, a strip of constructed wetlands on either banks and a system of floating treatment wetlands and aerators have been used to begin the process of restoring the canal edge at Strip 1.0. These elements could be created with the help of community following a detailed framework for the execution and planning of GI elements which will foster a

BIOSWALE

sense of ownership in the community.

GI elements not only aid in storage and assimilation of storm water but will also purify the water during its passage through them. GI elements not only help with water management but also create a healthier environment for the community.

These have been designed to restore ecological balance by providing habitat to various species of animals, insects and birds.

RAIN GARDEN

CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS

NANO AERATORS

RAINGARDEN

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FLOATING TREATMENT ISLAND

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

FLOATING TREATMENT ISLAND

CONSTRUCTED WETLAND

JET AERATORS

THIRUVANMAYUR STATION

BIOSWALE

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INTEGRATED WATER MANAGEMENT:CANAL REJUVENATION The proposed canal rejuvenation treatment system works on the biological process of Phytoremediation. The term “Phytoremediation Technique” encompasses the life interactions of bacteria, the roots of the wetland plants, soil, air, sun and water. Phytoremediation is the direct use of living plants for in situ remediation of contaminated soil, sludge, sediments, and ground water through contaminant removal, degradation, or containment. This technique is mainly solar energy driven and passive and can be used alone or in combination with mechanical methods.

The following are some elements and steps used in the proposed system:

Cleaning of the canal De-silting and dredging of the canal is required to begin the rejuvenation process. In order to clean the existing water in the canal dredging and desilting become the two major tasks to be undertaken. The depth of the canal must also be altered to change the direction of flow within the canal.

Changing the flow of the canal The first step is to change the flow of the canal from to upstream to downstream. If the flow is altered the water will flow into the canal from Adyar river which would lead to an increase in 1’ to 2’ water level rise.

Use of check damns Check dams must be used through the length of the canal. Choir checks dams can be employed in order to create divisions in the canal to counter solid waste and sedimentation. The check damns also aid in control and maintenance of the canal. The check damns also help in damage control by controlling the flow of the water flowing through the canal. Check damns also reduce the water flow speed and and reduce the particle content of the canal water.

Aerators Three types of aerators must be employed on the canal surface namely jet aerators, manthan aerators and nano aerators. Phosphates compounds present in domestic sewage can be changed to alternate phosphate compounds using nano aerators. On the other hand jet aerators serve a purely aesthetic purpose on the canal surface. Manthan aerators are surface aerators that resolve water gorgolation by mixing the solids present in the water dissolved and bring it to the top Floating treatment island Floating treatment islands not only add to the beautification of the site but also clean the water upto 80%.

Plant roots used in the floating treatment islands introduce bacteria into the water that change the chemical composition of the water. The ammonia and the sulphate content of the water, which is the major cause for the smelling of the canal, are broken down and the smell is reduced.

Constructed wetlands The constructed wetlands help in cleaning of the sewage content in the water. The run off water from the footpath end to the canal retention wall and is let in through the inlets of the constructed wetlands. This method directly treats the sewage water and counters smell and color at the source.

Vertical green wall The retention wall for the canal can be planted with specific plants to purify the water of the canal.

Micro plastics Microplastics dont dissolve in the water and the particles are very small. The nitrate oxide content is converted to aluminum nitrate by plants which further fosters the aquatic life of the canal.

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KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

SEWAGE INLET 3

Floating Treatment Islands

Nano Aerators

INOR

US M

VARIO S INLET

Manthan Aerators

Green wetland Wall

Jet Aerators

SEWAGE INLET 2

SEWAGE INLET 2

Constructed Wetland

Canal Rejuvenation Plan showing all steps - Created by The Blank Slate The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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A berm wall will help in blocking the water from overflowing into the city during a period of floods or disaster.

INTEGRATED WATER MANAGEMENT : INTERIM PROJECT NO 01 Construction Wetlands CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS & FLOATING TREATMENT ISLANDS IN THE CANAL WATER

W

Artificial wetlands have become recognised world over as an effective, low-cost technology to improve the water quality of aquatic environments by absorbing harmful nutrients and chemicals from the municipal waste entering and polluting them.

The Constructed Wetland span an average area 375 square meters . The width of the strip meseaures at 1.5 m respectively .

CONSTRUCTION

A berm wall will help in blocking the water from overflowing in the city during a period of floods or disaster.

T f a c

Expansion Of Flood Area

H

Reeds and Helophytes

Waste Water Inlet Treated Water Outlet into canal

Expansion of Flood Area will decrease the risk of flooding by increasing the capacity of water to be conveyed .

NEIGHBORHOOD LEVE Re-naturalization of Banks

R

Natural Vegetation Buffer helps protect the quality of water & also stabilizes the shoreline & reduces erosion.

R v

Adding green zones

W

SUGGESTED PLANTS

Duckweed

Yellow Nutsedge 96

Bulrush

Waterweed

Common Cattail

Helicona

Common Reed

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

BENEFITS OF HELOPHYTES

1. Plants directly uptake pollutants, especially nutrients, from the water, using a process known as biological uptake.

2. Microorganisms growing on the floating rafts and plant root systems break down and consume organic matter in the water through microbial decomposition.

3. Root systems filter out sediment and associated pollutants.

Recommended Floating Treatment Islands

a. Mat with frame type

Vegetation base : Usually inundated by water Dominant Plant : Emergent plants are the dominant plants Advantages : Habitat for bird resting and fish spawning , water purification etc.

Wet type : Plants are in direct contact with the water

b. Made out of waste tires and pet bottles

Vegetation base : In contact with water Dominant Plant : Any native species could be chosen Advantages : Made out of waste and can easily be made by the community.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS PERMITS

IMPLEMENTATION By Greater Chennai Corporation (Storm Water and Roads Department)

MAINTENANCE

By Chennai Rivers Resoration Trust and all consultants.

By CRRT, Friends of the Canal Civil Society.

SUGGESTED PLANTS

Vetiver Grass

Cattail

Water Spinach

Canna

Azolla

Citronella

Colocasia

Dwarf Canna Indica The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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INTEGRATED WATER MANAGEMENT : INTERIM PROJECT NO 02 Vegetation on streetscapes reduces the BIOSWALES BY THE ROAD SIDE

impact of heat island effect while proBioswales are vegetated, shallow, landscaped depressionsviding shade as well as creating public designed to capture, treat, and infiltrate stormwater runoff as itparks . moves downstream. They are typically sized to treat the water quality event, also known as the “first flush,”which is the first and often most polluted volume of water resulting from a storm event.

The water run off from the service road can be directed into the Bioswale, post which , the water will percolate through the layers and get purified. Some of which will be directed towards the canal by a pipe and the rest will enrich the ground water level.

The proposed Bioswales covered an area of 9 square meters. ie. 1.5m x 6.0m respectively.

Em he cre

Bioswales

Fl

Bioswales are a depression that retain water from roof and streets. This way clean water is infiltrated into soil.

Flo tak ma aq

plants with deep root Raising The Ground Native Water Level

Na

DESIGN SECTION

systems that absorbs run off & pollutant.

Curbing Storm water run off inlet Engineered Soil

Geo Textile Porous Pavements are created with Perforated pipe connecting to canal a range of sustainable materials that allow movement of water through the surface.

Th wa wa

BLOCK LEVEL INTERVE Native Soil

Rain forest harvesting

RECOMMENDED PLANTS

Rhaphiolepis indica

Armeria maritima

Iris Crisata

Indian abutilon

Shell ginger

Rainwater collected from roofs and man-made hard surface would help in storing water for the dry periods .

Rhaphiolepis indica 98

Bishop’s Hat

Aureovariegata

Gr

Japanese Forestgrass Lily of the valley

Gr so inc

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

1. Bioswales require appropriate media composition for soil construction. The engineered soil mixture will consist 5% maximum clay content.The side slopes are 4:1, with a maximum slope of 3:1.

2. In order to protect adjacent subsurface infrastructure we have maintained minimum clearances. We will install waterproof liners as separation barriers.

3. The Bioswales are designed to maintain a 5-foot minimum clearance from the bottom of the bioswale to high groundwater table.

4. The overflow/bypass drain system has been raised approximately 6 inches above the soil surface to manage storms larger than the water quality event.

5. The overflow/bypass drain system has been raised approximately 6 inches above the soil surface to manage storms larger than the water quality event.

6. Runoff that enters the bioswale in a sheetflow fashion requires that the edge of the bioswale be flush with grade. Where curbs are necessary, intermittently space curb cuts to allow runoff to enter and be treated within the swale.

7. Bioswales are composed of diverse, native vegetation. Vegetation selection considers species compatibility, minimum irrigation requirements, and the potential for wildlife habitat creation.

8. Discourage pedestrian trampling by using low curbs or barriers, or hardy vegetative ground covers.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS PERMITS

IMPLEMENTATION By Greater Chennai Corporation (Storm Water and Roads Department)

By Landscape Architects, Civil Engineer, Ecologist Friends of the Canal

MAINTENANCE By Environmental NGO Civil Society

BIOSWALES DESIGN CHECKLIST NATIVE SOIL INFILTERATION = __________ in/hr REQUIRED STORAGE CAPACITY= __________ cubic Ft CONNECTION TO THE EXISTING SYSTEM : YES/NO DEPTH TO GROUNDWATER TABLE > 2 FT : YES/NO ADJACENT TO DRIVEWAY CROSSING : YES/NO OUTLET : STORM WATER OR DAYLIGHT TO GRADE

BIOSWALE REFERENCES

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INTEGRATED WATER MANAGEMENT : INTERIM PROJECT NO 03 RAINGARDENS IN THE CENTRE OF THE SITE

A rain garden is a garden of native shrubs, perennials,and flowers planted in a small depression, which is generally formed on a natural slope. It is designed to temporarily hold and soak in rain water runoff that flows from roofs, driveways, patios or lawns. The Raingardens cover an area of 100-150 square meters.

Water logging within the site can easily be curbed by the creation of a Raingarden in the middle of the Strip. The water runoff from the nearing areas can be directed into the Raingarden by providing a gradual slope. The water will then percolate through the root system of the native plants and layers of soil, getting purified. Eventually it will seep down to recharge the ground water level while taking care of the issue of water logging in its vicinity.

DESIGN SECTION

Native Plants Side Slopes Ponding Area

Mulch Compost mix

Excavation Depth : 24-42 inches Zone 3

Zone 2

Zone 1

Zone 2

Zone 3

Native Soil

RECOMMENDED PLANTS

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Golden Dewdrop

Golden Moneywort

Mondo Grass

Bougainvillea

Rhaphiolepis indica

Champa White

Bougainvillea

Yellow Archangel

Rhaphiolepis indica

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

The location of the rain garden should depends on stormwater management needs, and accessibility to the public.

The rain garden is located in an area to receive maximum run off The rain garden is located in an area that is visible to the people to ensure efficient maintenance .

The rain garden is placed in a public area to ensure maximum community participation and visibility.

The basic anatomy of the raingarden should be attempted to be maintained so that the ponding area is taken care of.

6. The rain garden can be placed in a way to help in dividing a large area as well as to prevent water logging in the vicinity.

KEY STAKEHOLDERS PERMITS

IMPLEMENTATION By Greater Chennai Corporation (Parks Depatment)

By Landscape Architects, Civil Engineer, Ecologist Friends of the Canal

MAINTENANCE By Environmental NGO Civil Society

RAINGARDEN REFER-

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3 Floating Treatment Islands

4 Removable Coir Check Dams

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1

Constructed Wetlands

2 Filtration Walls

5 Jet Aerators

Buckingham canal looking towards the Indira Nagar Station showing rejuvenation i nterventions- Created by The Blank Slate The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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1 Constructed Wetlands

2 Filtration Walls

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3 Floating Treatment Islands

4 Removable Coir Check Dams

5 Manthan Aerators

Buckingham canal looking towards the Thiruvanmiyur Station with the rejuvenation interventions Created by The Blankslate The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION MONITORING AND CONTROL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

The green infrastructure elements integrate into the public spaces. Curated events specific to them can be organized in order to bring focus and eyes on the canal to ensure the well being and rejuvenation process of the canal. Some examples are: »» Sapling Plantation Monday »» Build An Island Tuesday »» Canal Day »» Restoration Celebration Day

DEVELOPING AND MAINTAINING GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE It is important for the community to be involved in the creation of GI elements. It not only induces a sense of pride withing them but also builds a sensitivity and a sense of ownership towards the elements. This can easily be taken up as a scheduled recreational activity or a leisure task for the citizens. Working to build GI elements is not only helpful to the nature and the Strip but can also be proved to be therapeutic in nature for the people participating in the activity.

Listed below are some basic way that the community can be involved. Apart from which, there is also a sample module or week wise schedule that can be employed for the same.

Community participation for the creation of GI elements: 1. Designing the various GI elements and selecting an appropriate site for the same.

2. Sizing and planning the GI elements.

3. Selecting appropriate plants for the site.

4. Spreading awareness and attracting the community to the site.

5. Rain garden and Floating Treatment Island construction and planting.

6. Maintenance and control.

TIMELINE FOR MAINTENANCE AND CONTROL The following timeline shows the necessary steps and concerns the community must keep in mind in order to ensure proper maintenance and control of the interim projects. The following is a sample timeline which gives a frame work and highlights the key concerns that might surface over a period of time. The timeline has parameters keeping in mind the aging and wear and tear of elements with time.

TIMELINE ACTIVITY

FREQUENCY

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

WINTER MAJOR INSPECTION

• To be checked after major storms and rains ( 24hrs )

GENERAL INSPECTION

• Once every month

DEBRIS IN CHECK

• Once every three months to check the quality

LEAKS IN THE SYSTEM • Once every year

INLETS IN CHECK

WATERING PLANTS

• To be checked evey week during rains • Everyday

WATER QUALITY FROM • Once every 3 months STORMWATER DRAINS

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MARCH

APRIL SUMMER

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

SOUTH EAST MONSOON

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

NORTH EAST MONSOON

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

RAIN GARDEN BUILDING - A Community Initiative Schedule Guideline Week 1

Week 7

Week 2

Week 8

• Research rain gardens and storm water run off.

Be able to describe what non point pollution is and how rain gardens are part of the pollution solution.

• Develop a budget • Investigate sources of funding through grants, fund raisers or donations • Brain storm possible rain garden locations based on land use type, budget, storm water necessity and public access.

Week 3

• Seek out support and help from parents in school newsletters and websites • Continue to investigate funding opportunities • Request assistant from Professionals teams

Week 4

• Finalize funding and donation arrangements • Begin publicizing in schools, websites, libraries and local businesses

• Set a rain garden installation date • Determine method of transporting and storing materials for installation day • Continue education and publicity campaign

Week 9

• Order materials and organize pick up, delivery and storage of materials • Continue education and publicity campaign • Advertise work days on school website, newsletter, press releases and flyers

Week 10

• Finalize rain garden location • Begin securing partnerships by requesting donations, volunteers, or loaning of materials from public works department, local businesses,residents and organizations.

• Prepare plant and construction design diagram for volunteers • Develop construction day procedures • Prepare materials for installation day • Send press releases to local newspapers and invite them to the events

Week 5

Week 11 Rain garden installation week

• Perform soil tests or send soil samples to the soil testing lab • Determine rain garden sizing • Plan the education and publicity campaign

Week 6

• Have professional confirmation to finalize design and sizing • Review budget to incorporate soil amendments and plants • Develop educational and publicity materials to present to classes and organizations

• • • •

Take before pictures of the site Confirm volunteer jobs Bring all materials to site Build a rain garden

Week 12 Wait ! You’re not finished !!

• Water the rain garden and determine maintenance schedule • Follow up with press and send pictures of rain garden and events • Send thank you notes to the volunteers and donors

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CHECKLIST FOR MAINTENANCE AND CONTROL The following worksheet shows how the community must inspect and maintain the storm water drain system in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the water management systems and also generates a set of parameters for the control of water quality entering the canal. The inspection checklist is designed with factors specific to Chennai and the Buckingham canal.

DATE INSPECTORS NAME LOCATION OF THE STRETCH EXAMINED WEATHER CONDITIONS

STORMWATER SYSTEM INSPECTION CHECKLIST WAS IT CHECKED ( YES / NO)

MAINTENANCE NEEDED ( YES / NO)

SAFETY CONCERNS Can you access the facility easily?

Foreign/dangerous objects?

Any spilled material/spill potential?

Vandalism, undesirable activity?

Evidence of the public entering facility

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OBSERVATIONS AND NOTES

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

WAS IT CHECKED ( YES / NO)

MAINTENANCE NEEDED ( YES / NO)

OBSERVATIONS AND NOTES

TRASH Trash, debris, pet waste, etc.?

Vegetation gone stale ?

ANIMALS Mosquitoe larvae?

Animal droppings?

VEGETATION

Overgrown vegetation?

Dead plant count (Trees, shrubs, grasses, etc.)

Large areas of bare soil?

Weeds? What species?

How much of facility covered in weeds?

Created by Blank Slate Studio The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES Process for Activation Implementation Strategy and Timeline Formation of Friends of the Canal Identifying Community Stakeholders Financial Module Design Evaluation Criteria

110

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Buckingham canal Bank along the Ramp leading from the Thiruvanmiyur Station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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PROCESS FOR ACTIVATION The process of tactical urbanism can be adopted and applied to other sites in order to activate them and create much needed interest and dynamism in the site. In order to achieve this, the below step wise process can be followed. f

STEP WISE PROCESS FOR ACTIVATION

01

Identify a potential site for intervention and study the context

Community participation and collective decision making for the site

03

Identify Potential Partners & Funding

Implementing the menu for programming

05 06

112

02

Introduction of events and activities into the site to ensure constant activation

Evaluate design for Long Term Proposal to decide appropriate way forward

04

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ACTIVATION METHODOLOGY The following toolkit presents the methodology to proceed with a tactical urbanism project with ease and efficiency. The toolkit offers varied situations and detailed solutions for each to arrive at the most appropriate solution. A stakeholder-of any kind can go ahead and take up the process and the toolkit can act as the guideline for anyone willing to execute the same.

STUDYING AND UNDERSTANDING THE BROADER CONTEXT

IDENTIFY A PIECE OF LAND THAT REQUIRES ACTIVATION

CONDUCT COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION WORKSHOPS TO CREATE INTEREST AND UNDERSTAND THE ASPIRATIONS OF THE PEOPLE

INTRODUCTION OF TEMPORARY EVENTS OR INFRASTRUCTURE TO CREATE ENERGY AND DYNAMISM

UTILIZE THIS ENERGY TO DRAW FINANCIAL CAPITAL AND SOCIAL CAPITAL FOR THE INTERIM PROJECTS THAT CAN FURTHER BE USED FOR LONG TERM PLANS FOR THE SITE.

1. Nature of the public space and its existing identity must be studied before planning the intervention 2. Understand the radius of impact of the site 3.Choose a unused / overlooked urban pocket for the intervention 1. Consider overruling factors like land acquisition and other legal frameworks that override public ownership of the site.

2. Consider communities and user groups in the site selection process.

1. Strategize and focus on the outreach of the community participation workshop 2. Offer a set of feasible design solutions for the people to choose from 3.Use of visual media to avoid any comprehension barriers

1. Identify existing events and integrate the cultural fabric of the city into the site 2. Introduce new events and activities that spark interest and create an unique identity for the site.

1. Involve MNCs, Govt. Bodies and other interested donors to attain financial capital 2. Involve NGOs, colleges and volunteer programs to create social capital

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IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY To ensure efficient implementation and functioning of the created public space, a well defined implementation strategy can provide a framework for the smooth execution by the professionals and the community. The following diagram highlights the key steps required to implement The Strip 1.0. The following process can be replicated further to extend along the entire length of Buckingham Canal to create The Strip through the city to create an activated awareness and an inviting and energetic public for the community.

ESTABLISHMENT OF OBJECTIVES • • • • •

ANALYSIS OF SITE AND CONTEXT UNDERSTANDING THE COMMUNITY AND THEIR AMBITIONS SURVEY AND WORKSHOPS FOR COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION MODULE BASED ON THE ABOVE EPOCH OF THE DESIGN STRATEGY

FORMULATION OF GUIDELINES FOR EXECUTION OF STRATEGIES • • •

SET SMALLER OBJECTIVES TO ACHIEVE BIGGER GOALS FORMULATION AND FINALIZATION OF A CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE FORMULATION OF POLICIES FOR COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION AND ESTABLISHMENT OF THE ORGANIZATION

COLLECTION AND ALLOCATION OF RESOURCES • • • •

CONTROL AND MAINTENANCE • • •

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EVALUATION OF DESIGN MAINTENANCE AND SECURITY OF THE SPACES COORDINATION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE

EXECUTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS COLLECTION OF FUNDING REQUIRED SETTING UP OF FUNCTIONS SUCH AS CAFES, SEATING ZONES, COMMON SPACES SPREADING AWARENESS

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

TIME LINE FOR IMPLEMENTATION

The implementation must stick to a set timeline in order to ensure the most efficient and impactful intended change. The process of activation is a time sensitive project that requires one to ensure its effectiveness and maintenance. The time line also helps the executioners understand and estimate the funds and time required for activation. The various acting bodies and partners could also be identified along the process and the time and period at which they are required to act.

FINANCIAL TIMELINE

DESIGN TIMELINE

MONTH 1

SITE STUDY AND ANALYSIS

MONTH 2

DESIGN CONCEPT AND STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT

MONTH 3

SPONSORSHIPS AND GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT

MONTH 4

SET SMALLER OBJECTIVES TO ACHIEVE BIGGER GOALS FORMULATION AND FINALIZATION OF A CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION TIMELINE

SURVEY AND WORKSHOPS TO UNDERSTAND THE COMMUNITY AND NATURE OF PARTICIPATION.

UNDERSTANDING THE COMMUNITY AND THEIR AMBITIONS ESTABLISHMENT OF A COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION MODULE

EXECUTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS

MONTH 5

SPREADING AWARENESS SETTING UP OF FUNCTIONS SUCH AS CAFES, SEATING ZONES, COMMON SPACES

MONTH 6

MONTH 7 DONATIONS AND REVENUE GENERATED BY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS

MAINTENANCE AND SECURITY OF THE SPACES

COORDINATION AND MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE

MONTH 8

MONTH 9

MONTH 10

MONTH 11

EVALUATION OF DESIGN

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FORMATION OF FRIENDS OF THE CANAL Mission statement for Friends Of The Canal: The initiative for formation of the Friends of the Canal it with a singular mission of recreating the character of the canal.

This entails the water quality, the edge conditions and the interaction of the banks with the neighboring communities.

This initiative will subsequently enhance the real estate costs, will add identity to the space and foster a safe environment.

The friends of the canal can become the sole agency directly working with the government agencies to improve the quality of the the canal and can include professionals and active community members. Funded by the community themselves and backed by financial aids coming in from various sources such as MNCs, government bodies and other forms of donation, they can become a mediator between the government and rest of the city.

Treasurer

FRIENDS OF THE CANAL Chair person The role of the Chairperson is to overlook and ensure the smooth functioning and execution of the short term plan. The Chair person becomes the sole manager of the organization however decision making remains a democratic process

The communications head ensures that the communication between the organization and other organizations are taken care of. The communications head also becomes a Communications contact point for the community by receiving the views of head the community and spreading awareness regarding the events and activities to be held within the space.

Design and Policies Team

Logistics Head

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The treasure functions as a neutral party and overlooks the financial aspects of the short term vision plan. The reception of the capital along with allotted distribution becomes a major part of the role played by a treasurer.

Some of the smaller roles played by the treasurer are as an advisory and overlooker of the financial activities of the remaining teams.

The design team is further divided into the designing team, the design execution team and the design evaluation team. This team is solely in charge of all things to do with design from conceptualizations to designing to material selection to evaluation of the space created.

The logistics head as the name suggests is in charge of the logistical requirements of the short term plan. Providing materials, timely delivery of material, smooth functioning of the site functions, external event management are a few roles to be played by the logistics head.

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

ROLE OF THE FRIENDS OF THE CANAL: Creating Brand Partnerships : Friends of the Canal can work with bigger brands to Ramanujan IT park and institutions like the NIFT who can provide financial aids and form brand partnerships to generate social and financial capital. Design elements can be employed to achieve the goals of the partner.

Establishing a management board : The friends of the canal initiative is a non profit initiative to rejuvenate the canal. The goals can be set on a timeline and cross checked periodically. The budgets and funding will be decided by the management and companies and partners with visions in alignment with that of the Buckingham canal can participate with the same.

Involving institutions for Educational Partnerships : Friends of the canal can offer educational programs to the neighboring institutions including schools and colleges alike.

Students from the neighborhood can participate in educational programs that add to the betterment of the site as well as the ecological welfare of the site. The students could explore art festivals,festivals, park designs and public art. This initiative would also give an opportunity to the students to interact with professionals and specialists who could also share real life applications with the students.

Forming Partnerships with NGO's and Institutes Neighborhood gardening can be encouraged as a activity with involvement of local groups like UDC, IIT group - extracurricular, local group, school children and volunteers. Friends of the canal can partner with special volunteering organizations such as SayTrees , Nizhal , Hand in Hand , and Plant a tree in India that can organize drives for tree plantations.

Similarly there are organizations dealing with water like Environmentalist Foundation Of India (EFI) , ExNoRa International , regreen Chennai that engage themselves in volunteering for Water Conservation and cleaning.

Collection and safe keeping of Monetary resources : Fund collection through renting out the space, crowd funding for events, getting in touch with the MNC’s and local markets.

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A mechanism needs to be put in place for active community groups to take up small scale tactical urbanism and green infrastructure projects. The flow chart below recommends a procedure that can be set up by Chennai Corporation inviting applicants to get their initiatives and activation projects executed with help from the concerned government bodies.

Planning Department opens Request for Proposal

Submit Application -Site Plan & Preliminary Design -Documented outreach & support from neighbors

Meets minimum requirement

YES

NO

REJECTED

Public Notice Posted

NO OBJECTION

OBJECTION

CRRT HEARING

PWD OFFICER HEARING

Design Process Develop Concept Design Submit Construction Docs to Planning Department Revisions - as required

Approved by Planning

Approval from MRTS Submit final papaerwork to Planning Department

Planning submits to PWD REVISIONS APPROVED

NOT APPROVED Pay fee to PWD PWD issues Permit

Construction

Contact PWD PWD Inspections Finish Construction

STRIP 1.0

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THE APPLICATION PROCESS

PROCESS OF APPLICATION Timeline Before submitting the application, use the timeline to help determine how long the approval process may take.

Approval can take between 10 to 55 days, based on the scope of the project and the permits it may be required to apply for.

Up to two months prior to desired installation date: Step 1

-Define the scope, purpose, and intended results of the project.

-Meeting the neighbors, designing of site plan, collect pre-installation data, and make initial materials list.

Between 10 to 55 days prior to desired installation date: Step 2

-Fill out the permit application. Make sure to include full project description, timeline, and any required supporting materials.

-Submit the application.

Within 10 days of application submittal: Step 3

-An email will be recieved from the Engineering Division with one of the following responses:

NOT APPROVED

APPROVED

Installation of the project as submitted in the application.

If approved, application for the following may still be required:

EVENT PERMIT

An Event Permit allows for block parties, noise variances, parades, or other large events.

Upto 45 days to approve

STREET CLOSURE

If more information or changes are needed, the application will be returned, with comments included.

When the comments have been addressed, the application can be resubmitted.

A Street –Closure Permit allows for detour routes and street and lane courses.

Up to 5 days to approve.

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IDENTIFYING COMMUNITY STAKEHOLDERS Every successful project requires committed stakeholders and successful partnerships for implementation. Below are few potential stakeholders and partners that could play a vital role in the activation of the identified space. These partnerships could be either monetary or could be identified as media to generate presence and awareness for the project. The acting bodies could also become active participants by adopting certain parts of the canal and the public space and maintaining and taking care of the particular strip. Educational institutions and NGOs could also take up the responsibility for the execution of certain elements and portions of the strip which can translate into a bigger ripple causing initiative.

SPONSERS

GOOD TIMES

Ramanujan IT Park MGR Film City

Coca-Cola

SOCIAL MEDIA Facebook Instagram Watsapp Snapchat

PRESS STAKEHOLDERS

NGOs

EDUCATION

Lion’s Club Balaji Charitable Trust Hope Cry Hive Hand in Hand Bhumi

British Council Alliance Francais Hindustan University IITM NIFT Anna University

GOVERNMENT

BANKS Equitas Small Finanace Bank Indian Bank Indian Overseas Bank Pandyan Grama Bank Pallavan Grama Bank

The Hindu Deccan Chronical Times of India Dina Thanthi

RADIO Hello FM

CRRT FICCI PWD CPWD Indian Water transport Muncipal Coorporation of Chennai

The initiatives discussed above to activate the canal bank holistically aim at demonstrating alternate water management techniques while activating a public space. Keeping this goal in mind our efforts are directed towards creating a program that can be run by the community and for the community. This approach ensures that the canal banks are being taken care of and maintained by the users themselves and eliminates any third party. The community involvement also ensures local knowledge and sense of belonging is fostered. Within the much larger community of the city we suggest the creation of a smaller set of individuals to be held responsible for the tasks designated to them.

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INITIAL CAPITAL INVESTMENT The diagrams below draw the relationship between the capital that is required to execute the activation process and the capital that can be generated to further the process of activation of the canal bank. The funding for the maintenance and rejuvenation of the canal and its water management can be extracted from the canal banks itself by creating a public space on one hand and generating alternate water management techniques on the other.

This kind of a revenue then allows the community and the governing bodies to further the potential of the site and most importantly the canal itself.

Cafe

Rs.9,50,000

Land Development

Rs.6,00,000

Tents

Rs. 70,000

Floating Treatment Islands & Constructed Wetlands

Rs.6,00,000

Games Area

Rs. 2,50,000

Bioswales & Raingardens

Rs.90,000

Plants for Site

Rs.3,00,000

Public Toilets

Rs.2,50,000

Community Garden Rs.90,000

REVENUE GENERATION PER ANNUM Cafe rental

Tent Stalls

Concerts

24,00,000

1,80,00,000

50,00,000

Games

8,00,000

Community Garden

6,00,000

The project requires funds of varied sizes ranging from Rs. 70,000 to an higher limit of Rs. 9,50,000 to build the various elements required for the intervention. This leads to a sum total of Rs. 31,10,000 that needs to be invested into the project for its wholsesome completion. However, 77 % of the capital that can be generated merely by the rent received for these cafes.

Going ahead concerts, stalls, games area etc would all bring in funds. The profit that is generated from the intervention is approximately 11 times the capital invested in just one year. This becomes an on going strategy that generates fund for the care taking and rejuvenation of the canal. These funds are calculated keeping in mind a time frame of just a year however with passing time and renewed interest in the canal these funds could increase leading to a renewed Buckingham Canal edge.

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FINANCIAL MODULE Initial funding for the short term action plan can be acquired through one time capital investments from various sources. For continuous upkeep of the place, recurring capital can be acquired through donations and creating value against service.

FINANCIAL MODULE

ONE TIME CAPITAL

SPONSORSHIPS Sponsorships from big MNCs and interested sponsors available around the canal.

The canal can become CSR projects for companies of various scales.

GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT Investment from government bodies such as the PWD, CRRT and the MRTS.

RECURRING CAPITAL

CAPITAL CREATED AGAINST SERVICE The site could house service based set ups such as cafes and gaming area that can attract people as well as act as a revenue generation module that can create funds against services .

INCENTIVE BASED CAPITAL Incentive based capital creation by activities such as advertising ,events and festivals could add to the funds required for the project and also give the people incentives to invest in the project.

DONATION BASED MODEL Donation based fund generation from companies that would like to donate to the Buckingham canal revitalization.

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Funds are needed to develop activities and create stress free spaces in the cities for the public recreation. For tactical urbanism, funds are aimed at benefiting the crowd who plan to develop short term activities with long term gains. Following are the channels through which one can receive funds for projects evolving around Tactical Urbanism.

01

SPONSORSHIPS Probable partners All corporations and shops in the vicinity could be a part of fund collection with some add-on benefits provided to the partners.

For MNC’s with a heavy footfall , parks and plazas could be created in our site that could act as a chill out space for the staff.

02

GOVERNMENT INVESTMENT Funding from Government agencies Local Governing Bodies like the PWD or Chennai Metro who govern the land in the area could help the organization with developing and raising funds for activities that help the community grow.

Organizers could have a session wherein the head of the local governing body could act as the head of the activity and promote tactical urbanism.

Local Corporators/Politicians who are in charge of the area could also help in funding and help citizens activate the space.

03

CAPITAL CREATED AGAINST SERVICE Events and Markets Weekly bazaars and events could help the organizers generate revenue for developing the area and having drives that involve the community.

An application could be created with updates and registrations for people to get interested in the events and marketing activities.

04

INCENTIVE BASED CAPITAL Event Organizer Communities who plan on continuing with activity building on site should try and generate revenue through renting spaces for small events or through activities that involve paid entries for flea markets, yoga classes, dance classes etc.

They can look out for and gain funds through activities such as pet shows, art classes, outdoor fitness activity sessions that are short term projects generating good amount of revenue.

05

DONATION BASED MODEL

Crowd funding Crowd funding generally takes place in four forms ie. Donation, Rewards, Debt, Equity.

Event Organizers could pull in strategies to gain funds through mainly two forms of sourcing – Donation and rewards.

They could opt for creating websites to gain donations through domains such as: Kickstarter, Indiegogo, RocketHub, Gofundme, etc.

For reward based crowd sourcing, organizers could pull in strategies like marathons, walkathons, etc. that could be a public event with heavy amounts of crowd funding.

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DESIGN EVALUATION CRITERIA The approach selected must be analyzed upon completion in order to the find the most appropriate way forward. The evaluation of The Strip 1.0 enables one to then modify and alter in order to develop the design solution for the rest of the public space. The evaluation process can be carried out by community participation workshops, observations and data collection methods like recording and public forum discussions. This can also be reinforced by social media analysis, footfall calculations and people behavior studies that further more detail out the concerns and design victories to shed light onto the best way forward.

GOALS Create a new identity for the canal banks as public spaces.

SITE RESPONSE What is the total number of people visiting the site ?

What is the level of interest and involvement of the community in site development activities ?

Has sewage dumping stopped at the particular stretch?

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Encourage a diverse set of activities that involve all strata of the society.

What is the diversity in socio economic backgrounds of the people visiting the site ?

Revitalize existing unused urban spaces.

What is the shift in activity levels seen on the site ?

Develop a bio diverse and native ecosystem to make the canal more resilient and sustainable.

What is the number of native species seen on site ?

Enhance comfort and safety of the users through appropriate amenities, lighting and security.

What is the ratio of men to women visiting the site ?

What is the recorded number of women visiting the site at various hours of the day ?

Increase the community interaction with the site.

What is the recorded involvement of the community in the activities ?

What is the diversity in activities during events ?

What percentage of space of the site is used by the people before and after the site activation process ?

What is the character and diversity in the fauna present on site ?

How much improvement is observed in the canal water?

What is the recorded footfall during activities and events ?

WAY FORWARD

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The diagram below highlights the various media and qualitative methods in order to evaluate the design intervention on the site. This kind of an evaluation technique would ensure a holistic understanding and analysis of the performance of the design. This method will also allow one to understand the performance and appropriateness of the various elements of design that will aid in the creation of the elements for design for the next step of the Strip. This kind of a method of design enables one to create better performing design solutions that grow with the growth in the needs and desires of the people.

Online Surveys

Online surveys of the general public, community stakeholders, & designers to gauge impact of the intervention.

Photo Documentation Before, during and after photo comparisons can be strong indicators of a project’s physical impact.

Observational Analysis

Quantitative data sets of pedestrian counts, age and gender registrations and observations of different types of staying activities.

Prototype Evaluation

The prototype can be measured against its own success criteria.

Or, if there are multiple prototypes, measured

Intercept Surveys

Social Media Analysis

Analysing metadata of social media posts from project area during and after the intervention.

In-Depth Interviews

Intercept surveys Interviews with specific conducted with users of users and stakeholders to the site before, during and gain a detailed insight into /or after the initiative has the project’s performance. been implemented.

Adopted from Planning by doing - Gehl

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WAY FORWARD : From Strip 1.0 to The Strip A vision for an interconnected public space Design stratergies and objectives

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Buckingham canal looking towards the Indiranagar Station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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A Vision for an Interconnected Public Space Network From The Strip 1.0 to a 10 Km long Public Strip

Chennai has the least open space amongst the major metro cities in India.

The city has only 2.09% of open spaces that translates to a 0.81 sq. m open space per capita. The Strip intends to create a green patch running along the offering green open spaces to all the communities it passes through. The new public space would offer the residents of Chennai renewed public recreational amenities and much needed open space.

The Strip can transform the land below Chennai’s MRTS into a A new vibrant public space that contributes to the fabric of Chennai physically, ecologically and culturally out of an otherwise under used urban pocket.

The initiative can bring about a great shift in the lifestyle amenities offered to the people allowing for a healthier and fitter lifestyle. The Strip will also enhance pedestrian connectivity in the city that currently struggles with great challenges to the transport systems traffic and strikingly low footfall in the MRTS. The green infrastructure suggested in the program will add to the current infrastructure available for storm water drain and sewage treatment and reinforce it further making it a solid system taking away the mesh like character with numerous loopholes. The space will offer the people a water front in the long run which can add greatly to the fabric and character of the adjoining neighborhoods.

The long term vision plan looks forward and envisions what Buckingham canal and its bank have the potential to become over a period of time. The Strip 1.0 is a fountainhead for activation for a new network of interconnected public spaces.

The larger goal of the vision is to create the much needed public space for Chennai, enhance environmental and ecological sustainability and encourage active lifestyle by aiding pedestrian thoroughfare. With these goals in mind design strategies have been recommended for the new public Strip to create a public space that will cater to people of all financial and physical abilities, a universally inclusive environment that encourages a diverse, active and healthy population.

Community participation, ideas and improvements from the short term action plan and on going betterment of the canal can become the pillars for this long term vision. The extended duration of the long term vision becomes a great opportunity for resources of every kind such as financial, design based, social capital to be bought together to create a set of resources that will be capable of bringing about great change.

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CHINTADRIPET

Strategies

11

10

9

8

7 6

5

CHEPAUK TIRUVALLIKENI

LIGHT HOUSE

THIRUMAYILAI MANDAVELI GREENWAY ROAD KOTTURPURAM

4

KASTURIBAI NAGAR

3

INDIRA NAGAR

2

1

A public space that will cater to people of all financial and physical abilities, a universally inclusive environment that encourages a diverse, active and healthy population.

THIRUVANMAYUR

The vision intends to extend The Strip and transform the unused urban space under the existing MRTS for an approximate stretch of 10 Km. The Strip will run along the public transport hence aiding to accessibility and proximity.

The design uses native vegetation and the community participation to create an ecologically sound public space that achieves a greater goal of environmental and ecological sustainability.

Stretching from Chintadripet to Perungudi the Strip intends to serve a large number of communities of various kinds.

The Strip will encourage the community adapt to a healthier, social and sustainable lifestyle.

+ RESILIENCY

ACTIVE RECREATION

ACTIVATION BY PROGRAMMING

RESILIENCY PROJECTS

Recommended Activation Programming

PASSIVE RECREATION

AMENITIES

CULTURAL ZONE

Community Garden Plazas Pedestrian pathways Edge conditions Expansion of flood areas Resilience Cycling and jogging track Informal space for Markets & Festivals Public amenities Game zones Canal bridge Art installation area Seating and social spaces Vegetable Gardens

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06 CASE STUDY

THE UNDERLINE LOCATION : MIAMI , USA RELEVANCE: CREATING NEW PUBLIC SPACE UNDER A METRO LINE The Underline, currently under construction is a new 10 Mile long public space in Miami. It will connect communities, improve pedestrian and bicyclist safety, create over 120 acres of open space with restored natural habitats, encourage a healthy lifestyle, provide an easily accessible place to exercise, create a mobility corridor that integrates transit, car, biking and walking, provide a 10-mile canvas for artistic expression and generate significant economic impact.

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LESSONS LEARNT :PUBLIC SPACE

GEARED TOWARDS PROMOTING AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

07 CASE STUDY

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

MATUNGA GARDEN UNDER FLYOVER LOCATION : MUMBAI , INDIA RELEVANCE: CREATING A NEW PUBLIC SPACE UNDER FLYOVER

The Matunga Garden-under-Flyover Project was built with an idea of protecting the space from misuse and encroachment from hawkers, gamblers, drug addicts, etc and creating a public space for the nearby residents.

This space has a walking path & green planter beds creating a safe pedestrian zone on a busy road and has attracted thousands to make this a walkers space.

MAKING USED OF

LESSONS LEARNT :UNDER USED LAND

PARCELS FOR PUBLIC BENEFIT .

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DESIGN STRATEGIES & OBJECTIVES RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PROGRAMMING THE STRIP

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Uptil now, the tactile urban elements proposed for the Strip are mostly temporary and adjustable in nature. Further , as the idea becomes concrete and more such Strips are identified, similar initiatives can be carried out. Over the years, in terms of maintenance, keeping the site alive and active, making the elements a part of the city’s urban fabric and for many other reasons, these interventions will have to be made of permanent nature.

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1.0 COMMUNITY GARDENS

Objective Creating Community gardens with children's play area Provide people and the children of the neighborhoods with spaces for social gathering and recreational facilities

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

134

Design a community park for the people that is accessible to all strata of society.

The park must have ground markings to give designated spaces to children, senior citizens and differently-abled residents.

Designated spaces must be dedicated to weaker sections of the society in order to ensure smooth, safe and comfortable use of the space.

The community garden must be a combination of softscape and hardscape to promote connection of the users to the natural terrain.

Exposure to natural terrain ensures better fitness and activity levels amongst children and adults alike.

In order to ensure activity in the space throughout the day, lights must be installed along various circulation spaces and activity zones so that spaces feel safer.

2.0 PUBLIC PLAZA

Objective

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Creating public spaces such as plazas and pavilions Plazas and pavilions create very effective public spaces and also add to the accessibility for pedestrians and bicyclists. This space can be used as a multiuse area to house various events and activities. On not very busy days this space can also contribute to the public realm as breathing spaces and pause points.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

Create attractive plaza spaces that are well maintained. The Public space must feature landscape elements, amenities like drinking water and public toilets and fixed and movable seating.

The public plazas must be placed near pedestrian ways in order to increase footfall. Instead of have one large plazas the plaza could be broken into various smaller plazas and squares.

Placing public spaces near transit stops will also ensure greater footfall and add to the transit public infrastructure.

Plazas must be accessible to bicycles to encourage activities and accessibility The plazas must include sidewalks and other existing pedestrian walkways. By creating a leveled area adjoining the sidewalks, plazas can ensure visibility and safely connect the plaza to the street. This also makes the plazas more accessible to the differently abled.

The plazas should house a diverse set of functions and be used for events and activities. The plaza must be designed to be weather proof.

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3.0 PEDESTRIAN PATHWAYS

Objective Designing pedestrian pathways Creating pedestrian pathways and sidewalks will encourage people to adapt to a fitter lifestyle.

An active lifestyle can be encouraged by creating pause spaces and enclosures to make physical active more convenient for the people.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

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Create a buffer to separate vehicular traffic from pedestrian traffic. This can be done with the help of landscape elements such as urban furniture and other design elements.

Provide infrastructure needed to encourage walking for longer distances such as drinking water public toilets.

Provide lighting and other safety measures like CCTVs to offer adequate levels of safety to encourage the use of the pedestrian walkways at all times of the day.

Add elements for comfort shade and visual interest such as trees. small landscape patches etc The sidewalk must be designed for anticipated activity along it. The width of the sidewalk must correspond to anticipated usage volumes instead of having one consistent width.

Special attention must be paid to the designing of intersections and crossings. If necessary, more crossings must be added to the current pedestrian network to encourage pedestrian movement and convenience.

The on site pathways created must be in accordance to existing sidewalks and pathways. The intersection between the on site pathways and the existing pathways must be treated carefully.

Pathways must be designed and oriented in a manner to create intrigue and interest There must be signages and markings on site to aid in way finding for pedestrians and cyclists

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4.0 EDGE CONDITIONS

Objective Design Strip - Sidewalk edge conditions Create interesting and attention grabbing edge conditions to invite people in and safer sidewalks.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

5.0 EXPANSION OF FLOOD AREAS

Enhance street activity by introducing outdoor cafes and activities

Design the edge conditions to counter the overflow during the monsoons and flood conditions.

Creating an edge condition to control and mitigate flood conditions.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

A planted buffer zone of 5 mtrs. must be maintained on both sides of the canal The banks of the canal must be re naturalized and hardscaping must be controlled and limited along the banks to ensure percolation of water into the ground table.

Native vegetative cover along with rain gardens must be employed at stipulated distances to ensure collection and percolation zones Mandatory Constructed Wetlands must be maintained along the entire length to ensure polluted runoff is treated before entering the canal.

Objective Creating a network of green infrastructure to be plugged into the existing network of storm water and sewage system to establish a comprehensive drainage system.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

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Organize pedestrian programs like garbage cleaning drives with Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan or initiatives like Happy Street

Objective

JJ

6.0 RESILIENCY INFRASTRUCTURE

Incorporate art and food festivals along the street to create interest and incentive for pedestrian traffic.

Create a series of floating treatment islands along with constructed wetlands to continuously treat the sewage before it enters the canal The projects must first be tested to document and evaluate the results and then scaled up to counter the issue through out the canal The banks of the canal must have easily accessible disposal bins in order to counter any littering and solid waste accumulation along the canal bank Resiliency infrastructure such as bioswales, infilteration strips, rain gardens etc must be incorporated along the entire length of the canal.

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7.0 Objective and bicycle infrastructure, Jogging paths CYCLING AND Bikeways As per our survey and site study the citizens voted highly to have a cycle trail or park established for the cyclists of the city.

JOGGING TRACKS Strategies JJ

140

Design well connected cycle pathways Also connect the cycle tracks to the transit network.

JJ

Include signages and directive arrows for way finding

JJ

Create separate bike ways from the pedestrian ways with physical demarcations

JJ

Provide adequate amount of parking for bicycles along the site

JJ

A seprerate track must be provided for joggers and runners

8.0 INFORMAL SPACES FOR MARKETS FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Objective Creating informal designated spaces that allow for public events and activities and generate public interest and revenue The space must allow for public expression and offer dynamism to interact with all age groups and communities.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

The space must be leveled in order to be inclusive of all sections of the society while being extremely mindful of the differently abled.

Visual and physical porosity in design must be of utmost importance in order to create points of interest and invite the people within the space.

The designated space must meet the physical and qualitative requirements for markets and festivals.

The venue must hold paid and unpaid events in order to generate revenue and include the various sections of society.

The events held on site must be audited prior to execution in order to maintain the ecological integrity of the space.

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9.0 PUBLIC AMENITIES LIKE DRINKING WATER AND TOILETS

Objective The recreational space must be self sufficient in its functioning as a public space.

The Strip can function as a plug into the existing public amenities and make up for the missing amenities in the neighborhoods it passes through.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

142

The Toilets must be strategically placed closer to high footfall regions in order to cater to high footfall zones.

Additional portable toilets and drinking water sources must be provided during events and festivals.

The maintenance of the toilets must be handed over to members of the community in order to generate job opportunities and sources of income.

Other public amenities missing in various zones must be identified with the help of the community and their placement must be mapped with the involvement of the community

10.0 GAMING ZONES

Objective

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

The game zone must be designed to be an immersive space designed keeping in mind all ages groups and financial groups the community comprises of.

The game zones must create memories in the mind of the people enticing them to linger and return to the canal.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

The space must be leveled in order to be inclusive of all sections of the society being extremely mindful of the differently abled.

Visual and physical porosity in design must be of utmost importance in order to create points of interest and invite the people within the space.

The space must allow for movement and activity with proper lighting and circulation spaces.

The space must have life size immersive games with ground painting to allow for immersive environments. The space should be designed with vibrant colors.

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11.0 CANAL CROSSINGS

Objective The Strip must have maximum accessibility and connectivity to the communities placed on both sides of the canal.

To ensure this there must be bridges placed to connect the two banks for best performance and integration of the two communities.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

JJ

12.0 ART

The points on both sides of the banks must be identified with the help of the community in order to strategically place the foot over bridges.

The bridges must be easily accessible to all sections of the society reinforced by ramps and other handicap friendly design elements.

The bridges must have parapet walls of a minimum of 900mm in order to ensure safety.

Lighting , way finding signages and other safety measures must be incorporated in the bridges.

The crossings should add to the aesthetic of the public space and not be viewed only as engineering projects.

Objective Creating a space for free artistic expression to allow the community to come together and create their own environments.

Art installation zones also become the canvas for freedom of expression, commemoration and to foster togetherness and voice an opinion of the community.

Strategies

144

JJ

Designated spaces must be assigned for artistic expressions.

JJ

Media such as wall painting must be employed in a controlled manner along the site.

JJ

The installations must be interactive in nature to engage the people of the community

JJ

Competitions can be held to involve the community in designing art exhibits

13.0 SEATING AND SOCIAL SPACES

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

Objective Foster community and interaction spaces.

Create a pause point for the otherwise busy station zones.

Strategies JJ

Must be accessible to all sections of the society.

JJ

Must be comforting and in well-lit zones

JJ

The space must be designed with anthropometrics and social characteristics in mind.

JJ

14.0 VEGETABLE GARDENS

The space must have temporary furniture as well to allow the people to shape the space as they please to use.

Objective A space and activity that fosters the growth and spread of native species along with educational activities along with providing a space for urban gardening.

Strategies JJ

JJ

JJ

The soil must be tested and leveled for gardening activities.

Schools and institutions surrounding the space must be included in planning and execution of the vegetable garden.

A community group must be identified for each vegetable garden which shall be responsible for maintenance

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ANNEXURE 1. Competition Boards 2. Survey Sheets 3. Community Participation Sheet

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Buckingham canal looking towards the Kotturpuram Station, 2019 The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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COMPETITION BOARD 1 Leveraging Buckingham Canal to be Chennai’s Shock Absorber

PROTECT CRITICAL INDUSTRIAL AND CITY INFRASTRUCTURE

Karamjor port

A Toolkit Of Water Sensitive Intervention

Our proposal is to re-imagine the Buckingham Canal as a means of making the city of Chennai climate proof by taking pro-active and collaborative steps that are urgently needed to address the challenges arising out of unpredictable climate, rising sea levels, future storm surges and possible inundation of the coastal areas of Chennai.

CITY LEVEL INTERVENTION

Limit Urbanization

Otteri Nala

Manali petrochemical ltd

STRATEGIES: • Absolute stop to illegal fly-ash dumping in the canal • Promote wastewater and sewage reuse in industries • Heavy investment in flood proofing critical infrastructure • Extensive purification and dredging of canal

The proposal offers a series of strategies and a kit of interventions that are to be applied based on the existing local conditions instead of an over-arching broad master plan.

Rather, through the use of macro, local and community strategies we propose various interventions that can be understood in themselves or applied as a comprehensive landscape & urban strategy.

Berm

Ennore Thermal power plant

NORTH CHENNAI This zone houses Chennai’s critical infrastructure and industries that keep it running.

Almost all of Chennai’s power plants, water treatment facilities, industries, dumping yards, water supply and ports are located here. With sea levels rising in the coming decades, unless steps are taken to protect critical infrastructure now, Chennai will come to a stand still.

The proposal broadly looks at the different industrial, residential and ecological landscapes that the canal runs through in Chennai and based on land use suggests strategies to combat the perils of climate change at a regional level including Protecting Critical Infrastructure, Flood proofing Vulnerable communities and Planned water sensitive future development. If maintained well, desilted and widened Buckingham canal has tremendous potential to protect Chennai from excessive flooding. The project studies future shocks and stresses that could affect the city and identifies Buckingham Canal as an asset that has been providing resilience and is need of strengthening to future-proof Chennai.

At a local scale, we look at three frames - At Adyar River, a Residential and an Institutional frame and suggest how a co-hesive approach of developing the canal and surrounding area can help protect the vulnerable low lying coastal area. The canal is revitalized on the strategy of ‘Delay, retain, store and reuse, drain when necessary’ approach. There is a toolbox of physical measures that have been illustrated below; these display the water sensitive intervention measures that respond to the varying challenges arising in the three frames selected along the canal. Proposed strategies like natural berms and planted mangroves along Adyar river to neighborhood level constructed wetlands for local Sewage treatment, biofilteration islands in the canal, retention ponds and flood proof public spaces capable of transforming into storage areas strive to create a refined balance maximizing the closing of local water cycles and optimizing two flows of public money into one integral investment. Along with water sensitive strategies, we propose land use regulations,such as increasing FSI in higher lying areas to help shifting of vulnerable communities as well as building guidelines with which we can begin to mitigate and protect communities of Chennai. By integrating Chennai’s different urban layers and land-uses, this proposal enhances and broadens the relevance of the historical and social values present there, and at the same time raising the quality and attractiveness of the canal by converting it into an adaptive waterfront development. The innovative and inclusive urban solutions offered here convert a current liability for the city to which it has turned its back on into a social asset which not only protects the ecology, but honors the cultural traditions, local identity and also enhances the economic returns for the city, thereby providing a comprehensive resilience from nature and man induced challenges of the future.

North Chennai thermal power plant

Madras petrochemical ltd Kothari petrochemical

Indian oil corpo-

Kodaingayur sewage treatment plant

Chennai dump-yard Diseal power plant Hindustan petroleum corporation

Tamil Nadu electricity board Basin bridge gas turbine power plant

Chennai port trust

Basin bridge yard

CENTRAL CHENNAI As Buckingham canal cuts through the heart of the city, it can help in climate proofing low lying area near rivers and neighborhoods that constantly suffer from flooding during heavy rains as well as which are at a risk from increasing sea levels due to polluted water channels and insufficient sewage systems.

Cooum river

FLOOD PROOF VULNERABLE COMMUNITIES AND INSTITUTIONS

No Infrastructural Waste STRATEGIES:

A berm wall will help in blocking the water from overflowing into the city during a period of floods or disaster.

By limiting urbanization the green spaces are retained and they help in controlling the climate.

Construction Wetlands

Waste Water Treatment Plant

A berm wall will help in blocking the water from overflowing in the city during a period of floods or disaster.

This Plant can help convert waste water from industries and residential area to an effluent that can be returned to the cycle .

Expansion Of Flood Area

Helophytes

By provision of proper management for disposal of heavy infrastructural waste, the water bodies are avoided from being polluted.

Reduction of Paved Areas

Reduced Pavement will help in reduction of surface water runoff . Thus there will be a lower risk of flood.

• Create Neighborhood level flood defense plans • Build decentralized natural wastewater treatment systems such as constructed wastelands • Soft flood protection edges along rivers • Develop micro water management solutions for informal settlements • Develop building regulations for construction in flood prone areas • Increase FSI in high lying areas to promote sparsification from vulnerable neighborhoods • Constant biofilteration in canal • Rethink flood infrastructure as social infrastructure

Adyar River

Kottupuram station

Water Based Densification Acquifier recharge zone

2050 SLR

1 MTR SLR ESTIMATED IN CHENNAI

144 SQ KM LAND INUNDATED

Alandur, Under-served areas with proper sewage treatment facilities

7,01,790 CRORE EXPECTED LOSSES

4.35 - 6.85 FUTURE STORM SURGE Expansion of Flood Area will decrease the risk of flooding by increasing the capacity of water to be conveyed .

Helophyte Filters have a large quantity of biomass & living surface for microorganisms. This helps in purification.

Water based densification helps in deducing FSI for structures according to their stationing on land.

NEIGHBORHOOD LEVEL INTERVENTION Re-naturalization of Banks

Retention-ponds

Natural Filters for Water Purification

2017 FLOODS

GENGU REDDY SUBWAY, LB ROAD, TARAMANI LINK ROAD AND VELACHER SEVERELY FLOODED

2015 FLOODS

INR 14,630 CRORES LOSSES 400 PEOPLE DEAD 1000,000 STRUCTURES DAMAGED

Thiruvanmiyur station

PLANNED WATER SENSITIVE DEVELOPMENT AND ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION

WORST FLOOD IN 100 YEARS 8 MOST EXPENSIVE NATURAL DISASTER

2005 FLOODS Natural Vegetation Buffer helps protect the quality of water & also stabilizes the shoreline & reduces erosion.

Rainwater Catchment areas helps in har- Mangrove enclosure near the river will vesting water for the longer period of year. protect the shoreline from being damaged by tsunamis and storms.

Adding green zones

Water Retention Infrastructure

Artificial Urban Wetlands

48 PEOPLE DEAD 47 INJURED

Low Lying Area 2015 Floods Waterlogged Roads 500 m CRZ line Original Canal Width Sea Level Rise - 2° C

Okkiyam Thuraipakkam

Sea Level Rise - 4° C Aquifer Zone Green Buffer Zoned will engage in reducing the temperatures and improving the quality of air and life in the city.

Rainwater collected from roofs and man-made hard surface would help in using the rain water for daily household use.

Wetlands function as water retention basins, sediment traps & waste water treatment areas by filtration and immobilizing harmful micro-organisms.

STREET LEVEL INTERVENTION Infiltration fields and strips with above ground storage

Visibility of Asset

Vegetation on streetscapes reduces the impact of heat island effect while providing shade as well as creating public parks .

Employing water as a functional aspect to heritage or prominent buildings helps in creating awareness.

Rain gardens are a garden of native shrubs and perennials that are planted in a small depression. They will temporarily hold and soak water from roofs and roads.

Bioswales

Floating Filtration Islands

Water Squares

Rain garden

Sewage Treatment Plant Sewer Outfall Water Treatment Plant

Bioswales are a depression that retain water from roof and streets. This way clean water is infiltrated into soil.

Floating filtration island help in up taking nutrients in aquatic systems making them unavailable for algae or aquatic weeds.

Water Squares are a combination of water storage with an improvement of the quality of urban spaces. It also gives an identity to spaces in the city.

Raising The Ground Water Level

Natural filters

Raising The Ground Floor Level

Porous Pavements are created with a range of sustainable materials that allow movement of water through the surface.

These filters help in trapping waste from water and help improving the quality of water.

Constructing buildings on stilts will help in preventing flooding in buildings .

BLOCK LEVEL INTERVENTION

148

Area lacking Sewage connections

Rain forest harvesting

Green Roof

Use of Ground Cover and Shrubbery

Rainwater collected from roofs and man-made hard surface would help in storing water for the dry periods .

Green roofing systems will cater to solving problems like temperature increase and reduced habitat.

A greater percentage of soft scape in comparison to built scape since it increases ground water table.

Perungudi, Under-served areas with proper sewage treatment facilities

SOUTH CHENNAI The southern section of the canal transects a relatively lesser developed area of Chennai providing opportunities to develop efficient decentralized water management systems and self reliant communities on the east of the canal as well as flood-proofing the IT hub on the west. Neighborhoods such as Sholinganallurmain that currently discharge sewage directly into the canal can benefit from micro strategies.

STRATEGIES: • Develop water management toolkit specifically for aquifer zone • Decentralized sewage treatment systems for under-served areas • Ensure areas South of Chennai do not get affected by polluted waters flowing in the Buckingham Canal due to the city’s inefficient water management.

• Protect and restore Pallikaranai marshlands • Encourage IT sector to invest in private water management

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Stormwater Planter

Storage Tank

Supply for Nonportable uses

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COMPETITION BOARD 2 FRAME A: ADYAR RIVER KEY STRATEGIES • Develop resilient public space • Improve access to waterfront from residential areas • Improve connectivity to canal • Increase permeable areas & build water retention infrastructure in flood-proof areas • Earmark land in higher areas for affordable • housing • Increase FSI in higher lands to promote rehabilitation efforts from flood prone area

2

FRAME A

LEGEND 1. Station plaza 2. Filtration zone 3. Flood protection berm 4. Mangrove zone 5. Cycling network 6. Activity points 7. Water retention infrastructure 8. Relocation zone 9. Infill development

Supply for non-portable use

FRAME A

Reedbed filteration

Reedbed filteration

5

6

9 Perforated Drainage pipe for excess stormwater

A flood protection berm at the canal where it meets Adyar river will help in keeping the water out of the city while providing a vertical protection from future storm surge and rising sea levels.

The Berm also offers pleasant, accessible routes into the park, with many programmed spots for resting, socializing, and enjoying views of the park and river. The berm is planted with a dense vegetation and mangroves for ecological protection.

The filtration zone at the mouth of the canal constantly purifies the water as it flows down from an industrial zone.

The Frame also demonstrates how relocation zones in higher lying areas can clear the encroachments near the canal and provide needed land for its widening.

Cycling networks connect the landscaped berm with the canal.

4

3

2

1 7Permeable paving

Runoff from 9 highway treated in bioswales before running into canal

5

for groundwater recharge

9 2 5

5

7

4 3 Kottupuram Station 5

Rainfall

6

9

Rainfall

Adyar river Artificially constucted Flood Protection Berm

1 7 2

5

Restricted Access Mangrove Zone

6

5

8

4°C water level increase 2°C water level increase

7

•Surface runoff and water treated naturally before entering river •Increase Water Infilteration

7 Root Filteration zone Near Urban Areas

8

ADYAR RIVER

The Berm at Adyar river

The Berm at Adyar river

FRAME B FRAME B Kasturibai Nagar Station 6

1

3

2

7

4

FRAME B: RESIDENTIAL ZONE KEY STRATEGIES • Increase permeable area & build water retention system in flood prone area • Improve access to water front from residential areas.

• Provide biofilteration zones in canal nears residential areas for constant purification • Sparsify low lying flood prone areas in Adyar • Develop building regulations for construction in flood prone area • Acquire land near canal for expansions • Build retention ponds & water storage facility in low lying areas

1

1

4

1 6 8

9 10

6

4

9

5 1

LEGEND 1. Water square 2. Station plaza 3. Station terrace cafe 4. Bioswales 5. Boardwalk & bike-way 6. New regulated construction 7. Retention pond 8. Rain garden and permeable infrastructure 9. Waterfront edge 10. Filteration islands

8 5

Residential areas can be retrofitted with water resilient infrastructure and strive to close water cycles.

Bioswales on most frequently flooded roads, retention ponds, water squares which store water during rainfall along with micro rainwater harvesting and on-site sewage treatment help reduce the load on Chennai’s overworked treatment plants.

Boardwalk and Bike-way increase connectivity and provide residents with access to the canal which emerges as a new public space.

A retrofitted station plaza with green roof strives to reduce the damage done to the canal due to the construction of the Metro and provides space for relaxing, socializing and helps reduce runoff.

8

6

10

4

6 3

4

2

7

biofilter strip at canal edge

Runoff from highway treated in bioswales before running into canal Rainfall Green Roof: Rainwater filtered and stored

Indira Nagar Station

Rainfall

FRAME C Stormwater Planter

Cistern Permeable Paving

biofilter strip at canal edgeStorage Tank Supply for Nonportable uses

Runoff from highway treated in bioswales before running into canal

Canal restoration at Kasturibai Nagar Station

Water square & Biofilteration islands

Rainfall

1

FRAME C : INSTITUTIONAL ZONE KEY STRATEGIES • Improve access from institutional & residential area to canals • Provide low income housing in government owned lands • Invest in natural on site storm water systems to reduce load on sewer lines • Densification of in high-lying areas • Vacant government owned land to be used for slum rehabilitation • Reserve unbuilt land for creation of public space to cater to increased density

3

5 Thiruvanmiyur station

2

LEGEND Soft landscape

Infill development

Bioswales

Station plaza

Water retention infrastructure

Flood protection

Activity Node

Promenade

Improved Access to waterfront

Easy access to waterfront

Area flooded in 2015

LEGEND 1. Constructed wetlands 2. Public garden 3. Bioswales 4. New low income housing 5. Rain gardens & permeable infrastructure

Rainfall

Supply for Nonportable uses

Supply for non-portable use

2

Institutions with large chunks of unbuilt land can densify to create room for new development on high grounds.

Constructed Wetlands on vacant government and institutional lands can begin to treat sewage currently being dumped into the Buckingham Canal.

By increasing FSI in this area space can be generated for rehabilitation of vulnerable communities affected by floods.

Public gardens, rain gardens etc need to be built to cater to increased projected densities and provide permeable areas.

Land needs to be reserved for affordable housing on high lying lands to protect the needs of low income communities in the future.

4 3

1

Stormwater Planter

FRAME C

Green Roof: Rainwater filtered and stored

5

4

Storage Tank

Cistern Permeable Paving

Reedbed filteration

Reedbed filteration

3

4° Water-level rise 2° Water-level rise

Perforated Drainage pipe for excess stormwater Permeable paving for groundwater recharge

Runoff from highway treated in bioswales before running into canal

LEGEND Coastal areas under threat by sea level rise due to 2° rise in global temperatures

Supply for non-portable use

Reedbed filteration

Reedbed filteration

Coastal areas under threat by sea level rise due to 4° rise in global temperatures Areas flooded in 2015 CRZ line Roads flooded in 2015

Perforated Drainage pipe for excess stormwater Runoff from highway treated in bioswales before running into canal Rainfall

Permeable paving for groundwater recharge

Closing the water cycle

Institutional constructed wetland

Rainfall

Artificially constucted Flood Protection Berm

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION The project envisions community participation of all stakeholders living near Buckingham canal, citizens of Chennai as well as all communities affected by floods and climate change.

Stakeholders need to be included in all stages of the projectfrom creating awareness about the issue , in the pre-design process and execution as well as monitoring the project on a regular basis.

Using crowd-sourcing mapping, public art, participatory planning workshops, innovative technology to make the design more relatable as well as drives conducted in school, viral social media challenges and campaigns- this project suggests different ways in which all stakeholders across all demographics irrespective of age and income can be a part of Buckingham Canal’s design.

Restricted Access Mangrove Zone

CHILDREN

YOUTH

SENIOR CITIZEN

4°C water level increase 2°C water level increase •Surface runoff and water treated naturally before entering river •Increase Water Infilteration Root Filteration zone Near Urban Areas

ADYAR RIVER

Rainfall Rainfall

Artificially constucted Flood Protection Berm Restricted Access Mangrove Zone

4°C water level increase 2°C water level increase •Surface runoff and water treated naturally before entering river •Increase Water Infilteration Root Filteration zone Near Urban Areas

ADYAR RIVER

Awareness & issue sensitization Pre-design participation & execution

ASSESSMENT OF EXISTING SITUATION

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Post design - monitoring

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LIST OF RECOMENDED PLANTS FLOWERING TREES

150

1.

2.

4.

5.

3.

SPREAD

COLOUR

1.Tulip Tree Liriodendron tulipifera

165 ft

40-50 feet.

Orange, Yellow

2.Nutmeg Tree Myristica fragrans

66 ft

30 ft.

The flowers, borne in umbel-like cymes, are creamy yellow and fragrant.

3.Champa White Plumeria obtusa

5–25 ft

39 feet.

White

4.Magnolia Tree M. macrophylla

30 to 40 ft

50 feet

Fragrant White Blossoms

5.Prickly Paperbark Tree Melaleuca Styphelioides

32ft.

26 ft.

White Blossoms

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FLOWERING TREES

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FRUIT BEARING TREES 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

152

SPREAD

COLOUR

1. African Pista tree Pistacia vera L.

25 to 30 feet

25 to 30 feet

The shell of the pistachio is naturally a beige color, but it is sometimes dyed red or green in commercial pistachios.

2. Almond Trees Prunus dulcis

13–33 ft

22 ft

The flowers of the almond tree are white or light pink in color, coming out in early spring.

3. Baraba Tree Garcinia intermedia

50 feet

40-foot

The fruits are smooth spheres about an inch in diameter with a thin yellow, orange or red rind around a white pulp.

4. Cacao Tree Theobroma cacao

20–40 feet

17 ft

Colors such as red, purple, yellow and green are common.

5. Guava Tree Psidium guajava

33 ft

10 - 12 feet.

Guava produces solitary white flowers and a berry fruit. The fruit is oval in shape and green to yellow in color.

6. Star fruit tree Carambola

12 to 30 feet tall

25ft

The tree produces small lilac or purple flowers and The waxy fruit is orange-yellow in color.

7. Orange Tree Citrus reticulata

20 ft

20 ft

Orange

8. Persimmon Tree Diospyros

60 feet

25 to 30 foot

Female trees produce large orange-brown fleshy fruit that are edible after the first frost.

9. Pummelo Tree Citrus maxima

25 feet

30 foot

Yellow / Green

10. Sweet Tamarind Tree Tamarindus Indica

80 or even 100 feet

40 feet

The exterior is brown in Color

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FRUIT BEARING TREES

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GROUNDCOVER 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

154

SPREAD

COLOUR

1.Ajuga Ajuga reptans

6-9”

0.50 to 1.00 feet

Ajuga bursts forth with spikes of blue, pink, or white flowers.

2. Armeria Armeria maritima

4” tall

0.50 to 1.00 feet

Dense clumps with strawberry-like foliageand yellow flowers.

3. Barren Strawberry Potentilla sterilis

2”-6”

4. Bishop’s Weed Aegopodium podagraria

0.50 -1.00’

23-35 inches

The Spread is green in color.

5.Bloody Cranesbill Geranium sanguineum

8-12”

24”

Bloody Cranesbill is an eye-catching spreading perennial with large, bright, magenta-pink cupshaped flowers with dark veins.

6. Brass Buttons Leptinella squalida

0-1”

Indefinite

They have leaves that range in color from gray to green, purple and black throughout the seasons.

7. Bunchberry Cornus canadensis

10”

0.50 to 1.00 feet

The anthers are yellowish white in color, narrowly ovoid in shape

8. Creeping Buttercup Ranunculus repens

19”

0.6–1.2 in

Pink, white, purple, red, and bicolors with darkercolored eyes abound in spring on this perennial groundcover.

9. Creeping Phlox Phlox subulata

6”

2 feet

The flowers of creeping phlox appear in candycolored shades of pink, purple, blue, and white.

10. Crested Iris Iris Crisata

0.50 - 0.75’

0.50 to 1.00 feet

White, Yellow , Purple

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GROUNDCOVER

The Flowers are Yellow in color.

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SHRUBS 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

156

SPREAD

COLOUR

1. Rose periwinkle Catharanthus roseus

39 in

25 in

Periwinkle is a color in the blue and violet family.

2. Indian abutilon Abutilon indicum

4-6 ft

3-4 ft.

Bright yellow-orange blooms

3. Nerium Nerium oleander

15 ft.

10ft.

Pink is the most common color.

4. Shell ginger Alpinia zerumbet

6 ft

5.Golden Dewdrop Duranta erecta

2 m.

1.3 cm

Shades of Blue and Purple.

6. Bougainvillea Bougainvillea glabra

20 feet

13-26 ft

Bougainvillea comes in a variety of colors – pink, purple, orange, yellow and white with magenta being the most common color.

7. Indian Hawthorn Rhaphiolepis indica

3 to 6 feet

4-5’

Brilliant-pink blooms gradually fade to white, the shrub sports both colors simultaneously.

Bright-green foliage and blue-purple berries heighten the shrub’s visual impact.

8. Tree of a Thousand Stars Serissa japonic

0.45–0.60 m

4-5’

It has small little leaves, darkish green to light green and the

9. French Hydrangea Hydrangea paniculata

7 ft

8 ft

French hydrangea is a shade preferring shrub producing ball-shaped or flat clusters of white, pink, blue or purple flowers, depending on soil conditions and cultivar.

10. Weigela Aureovariegata

4.00 to 6.00 feet

4.00 to 6.00 feet

The Flowers bloom in shades or Red aand White.

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SHRUBS

White and Pink.

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SACRED TREES 1.

2.

3.

6.

7.

4.

NEAR EXTINCT TREES 5.

158

SPREAD

COLOUR

1.Alexandrian laurel Callophyllum inophgyllum

8 to 20 m

3m

When ripe, the fruit is wrinkled and its color varies from yellow tobrownish-red.

2. Indian Cork Tree Millingtonia hortensis

4” tall

0.50 to 1.00 feet

3. Banyan Ficus benghalensis

24 m tall

10m

4. Parijatam Nyctanthes

21 meters

a main trunk 13 feet (4 m) in diameter

6. Iluppai tree Madhuca longifolia

20 meters

4-5M

7. Benjamin’s Fig Neolamarckia cadamba

25 m.

1-1.6M

NAME

HEIGHT

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SACRED TREES

NEAR EXTINCT TREES 5. Kanara Nutmeg Tree Nyctanthes

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SURVEY SHEETS FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION

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SURVEY SHEETS FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION

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SURVEY SHEETS FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION

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THE STRIP @ Buckingham Canal Demonstrating Alternative Water Management Techniques While Creating A Public Space 164

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET 1

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Participate in Design. Vote NOW! Storm Water Management

Clean Water & Sanitation

Community Vision and Goals

Nature Restoration

Public Space

Canal Rejuvenation

Year Round Programming

PROJECT GOALS

Your vote counts!

To stay updated follow us at @THEBLANKSLATESTUDIO on Instagram & Facebook

Reach out to us at info@theblankslate.com with your feedback The Blank Slate | Eyes On The Canal

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET

SURVEY

CHOOSE ANY 5 ACTIVITIES ALONG LONG THE CANAL ? (Please Tick in White Box)

PUBLIC TOILETS

CHILDRENS PARK

SENIOR CITIZEN

COMMUNITY GARDEN

DOG PARK

CYCLING PARK

FOOD STALLS

EDUCATIONAL GARDEN

MULTIUSE LAWN

OUTDOOOR FITESS

CANAL BRIDGE

PERFORMANCE AREA

READING AREA

INSTALLATIONS

SEATING AREA

SOCIAL SPACES

INSTALLATIONS

VEGETABLE GARDENS

SKATING PARKS

GAMES AREA

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET 3 EVENTS ALONG THE CANAL CHOOSE ANY 5 EVENTS ALONG LONG THE CANAL ? (Please tick in the

ART FESTIVALS

FLEA MARKET

YOGA EVENTS

CULTURAL FESTIVALS

FOOD FESTIVALS

MUSIC EVENTS

GARDENING DAYS

NEIGHBOURHOOD EVENT

FESTIVAL MARKET

WHAT HAVE WE MISSED?

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET 4

Your Thoughts!

1.

How can we make this place safer for women at all times ?

A FEW IDEAS .....

YOUR SUGGESTION

• Lighting • Late Night Programming • No compound wall between our site and OMR Road • Promoting Late Night Street Vendors

2.

How can the edge of the canal be made more accessible ?

KEEP THE WALL

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INCREASE VEGETATION FOR FLOOD PROTECTION

CREATE STEPS

YOUR SUGGESTION

3.

How can we make the site inclusive and accessible to all sections of the society ?

4.

How can we ensure the site is not vandalized and Public Property not removed from site ?

COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET 5

KICKSTARTING RESILIENCE AT BUCKINGHAM CANAL

What can you get involved?

1.

Would you volunteer to manage and plant trees and shrubs and periodically check on our floating islands in the canal ?

YES

2.

NO

If No, Why?

How can we raise funds for creating a Temporary Public Space ?

Who do you think can fund the project ?

A FEW IDEAS .....

• • • •

4.

MAYBE

Do you believe the community can come together in maintaining the space for the long run ?

YES

3.

NO

YOUR SUGGESTION

Crowd Funding Corporate Donation Advertising Government

Do you think your family and friends would like to initiate and conduct events on site such as food markets , theatrical performance, musicperformances, yoga sessions?

If YES , What Activities ?

If NO , What NOT ?

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION SHEET 6

Want to stay updated & continue to give feedback on our design?

NAME : MOBILE NO. : EMAIL ADDRESS: PLACE OF RESIDENCE :

THANKS FOR SHARING !

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SOURCES WEBSITES 1. What would an entirely flood-proof city look like?

https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2017/sep/25/what-flood-proof-city-china-dhaka-houston 2. 100 Resilient Cities http://www.100resilientcities.org/about-us/#section-2 3. A tale of two Northern European cities meeting the challenges of sea level rise

https://e360.yale.edu/features/a_tale_of_two_northern_european_cities_meeting_the_challenges_of_sea_level_ rise 4. Protection against water

https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/english/water-systems/protection-against-water 5. Cleaning up Chennai's canals

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfAforBljWM 6. Buckingham canal: File detailed report on sewage water discharge: NGT to state

https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/250918/buckingham-canal-file-detailed-report-on-sewage-water-discharge-ngt.html 7. Salt tolerant plant garden

https://currentaffairs.gktoday.in/tamil-nadu-worlds-salt-tolerant-plant-garden-11201637233.html 8. Decentralised Waste Water Treatment Systems in Auroville

https://www.auroville.org/contents/1127 9. TWAD Board

http://www.twadboard.gov.in/twad/watertesting_charges.aspx 10. How to purify wastewater using just plants

https://www.israel21c.org/how-to-purify-wastewater-using-just-plants/ 11. How microbes can clean polluted water from drains to rivers

https://www.livemint.com/Politics/H6eL4JewrqqatlKmGQdnON/How-microbes-can-clean-polluted-water-fromdrains-to-rivers.html 12. Green streets active practice guide tucson arizona

http://nrcsolutions.org/green-streets-active-practice-guide-tucson-arizona/ 13. Salt wetlands

http://www.deltaenvironmental.com.au/archives/saltwetland/saltwetl.htm 14. Past-greening-projects

http://greeningtherubble.org.nz/past-greening-projects/ 15. Everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-tactical-urbanism

https://dirt.asla.org/2015/05/19/everything-you-wanted-to-know-about-tactical-urbanism/

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16. Rapid Assessment and SWOT Analysis of Non-technical Aspects of Natural Wastewater Treatment Systems

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/283579736_Rapid_Assessment_and_SWOT_Analysis_of_Non-technical_Aspects_of_Natural_Wastewater_Treatment_Systems/figures?lo=1 17. The floating isles of mumbai

http://www.afternoondc.in/city-news/the-floating-isles-of-mumbai/article_200566 18. How much india changed with climate change

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/rewind-2018-how-much-india-changed-with-climatechange-62609 19. River front revitalisation

http://riverfrontrevitalization.com/ 20. Sanitation does not end with flushing a toilet a tamil nadu town shows how to complete the sanitation cycle

https://www.indiaspend.com/sanitation-does-not-end-with-flushing-a-toilet-a-tamil-nadu-town-shows-how-tocomplete-the-sanitation-cycle/ 21. Open-water-channels

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/measures/open-water-channels/ 22. Helophyte filter on erasmusgracht amsterdam

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/projects/helophyte-filter-on-erasmusgracht-amsterdam/ 23. Fluted gutters

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/measures/gutters/fluted-gutters/ 24. Eva lanxmeer results

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/projects/eva-lanxmeer-results/ 25. Living machine

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/measures/living-machine/ 26. Measures at the town or city level

https://www.urbangreenbluegrids.com/measures/measures-at-the-town-or-city-level/retaining-wall/ 27. Protecting indias fishing villages

https://news.mongabay.com/2019/01/protecting-indias-fishing-villages-qa-with-maptivist-saravanan/?fbclid=IwA R3xHy7RQXQw7L5hiTlqgjiqdwJ3DD4VcNDxh0p_2MOtuXSm_0uOwI8-YZM 28. Before after south street philadelphia pop up garden

https://www.designsponge.com/2015/07/before-after-south-street-philadelphia-pop-up-garden.html 29. Backyard experiment

https://player.vimeo.com/video/202676046 30. From practice to policy: frameworks for temporary use

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/17535069.2015.1011422?src=recsys&journalCode=rurp20 31. RIVERFRONT REVITALIZATION PROJECT - OMAHA

http://riverfrontrevitalization.com/ 32. From pop up to permanent five lessons in tactical urbanism

https://globaldesigningcities.org/2018/04/18/from-pop-up-to-permanent-five-lessons-in-tactical-urbanism/ 33. Guide tactical urbanism

https://www.citylab.com/design/2012/03/guide-tactical-urbanism/1387/

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ARTICLES AND LITERARTURE

1. Golfstromen, Vendor Power - Tactile Urbanism ( Published on Nov 29, 2010 ) 2. Mike Schwindeller, Adaptive Streets: Strategies for Transforming the Urban Right-of-Way (Published on Jun 5, 2014) 3. Bryan Beerman , Living with Water ( Published on Aug 4, 2015 ) 4. Sonoma RCD , Slow it. Spread it. Sink it. Store it! ( Published on Apr 25, 2016 ) 5. Allegra Fornaca Chalmers University of Technology (Göteborg, Sweden), ”No Retreat from Change. A resilient flooding adaptation strategy for Henån" ( Denmark ) 6. Gehl , Downtown Denver 16th St Mall - Small Steps Towards Big Change ( Published on Jun 21, 2016 ) 7. United Nations , Planning sustainable cities ( Published on Oct 22, 2014 ) 8. TEP , Towards a Green Infrastructure Framework for Greater Manchester: Full Report (Published in September 2008 ) 9. West of England Green Infrastructure Group , West of England : Strategic Green Infrastructure Framework 10. Rodrigo Velasquez Angel, World Cities Report 2016. Urbanization and Development: Emerging Futures ( Published on May 21, 2016 ) 11. Global Cities & Climate Change Studio, Water Urbanism: Madurai, India, (Published in Spring 2016) 12. Global Cities & Climate Change Studio, Water Urbanism : Varanasi ( Published in Spring 2018 ) 13. Global Cities & Climate Change Studio, Water Urbanism: Kolkata (Published in Spring 2017) 14. OJB , Riverfront Revitalization Plan Refill Magazine #1 in ( November 2016 ) 15. Diwakar Pandian IIT Madras , IFMR Research, Sea Level Rise: Impact on Major Infrastructure, ecosystems and land along the Tamil Nadu coast Future Sea level rise Assessment of loss and damage in Chennai in 2005 by Indo-German Centre for Sustainabiltiy Buckingham Canal Analysis 16. CMDA, Chennai Master Plan 2026 Volume 3 - Infrastructure Soil Type Map 17. Arappor Iyakkam , Why Chennai Stinks?

18. Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board , Chennai Sewerage System by Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board Session – III Water Supply, Sanitation, Solid Waste Management and Flood Alleviation 19. NYC , Active Design Guidelines: Promoting Physical Activity & Health in Design by Active Design guidelines team 20. The Street Plans Collaborative , Tactical Urbanist’s Guide to Materials & Design Version 1.0 ( Published in December 2016 ) 21. The Street Plans Collaborative , Tactical Urbanism Vol.1 ( Published on March 13. 2012) 22. Chennai floods: Decoding the city’s worst rains in 100 years - Indian Express 23. Private lorries dump sewage, garbage into Buckingham Canal - Times of India 24. Sea level rise raises submersion spectre in Chennai - Times of India 25. Cleaning citys drains in a natural way - Times of India 26. India’s Sinking Cities - The New Indian Express 27. Chennai: 10 lakh people in city to be affected due to rising sea level, some areas to submerge - India Today 28. Rising sea levels to affect water table along Chennai’s shoreline - The Hindu 29. Sea-level rise: Sea-level rise in 30 years a threat to chennai | Chennai News - Times of India 30. Professor Chella Ranjan , Sea Level Rise : Impacts on major infrastructure, ecosystems and land along the Tamil Nadu Coast 31. Professor Chella Ranjan, Future Sea Level Rise ( Published in July 2017 )

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