Sampriti Saha_Master's of Landscape Architecture Thesis

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TOWARDS IMPROVING STANDARDS OF LIVABILITY OF A CITY
USING CANAL SYSTEMS AS A TOOL OF REVITALIZATION: A CASE OF KOLKATA
SAMPRITI SAHA
MASTERS OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
THESIS, CEPT UNIVERSITY

A holistic approach towards improving the Standards of Livability of a city using Canal System as a tool for Revitalization: A case of Kolkata
content
chapter 1: introduction...................................................................................................2
1.1: current urban issues
1.2: evolution
1.3: synopsis
chapter 2: context analysis............................................................................................18
chapter 3: typology analysis..........................................................................................25
chapter 4: observation and analysis of demonstration stretch.................................33
chapter 5: strategies for holistically improved canal edge environment................50
chapter 6: concept and intervention..........................................................................55
1

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
2

Map showing Kolkata Municipal Corporation area (KMC) and Kolkata
Metropolitan Area (KMA) located within the vicinity of the coast and
close to the international border of Bangladesh
(source: An Overview of the Impacts of Land Use Land Cover Changes (1980–2014) on Urban Water
Security of Kolkata,Subham Mukherjee, Wiebke Bebermeier and Brigitta Schütt )
The wave of modernization is sweeping our metropolises at present.
Increased demand requires increased supply of food, housing and
employment. In the process the infrastructure and resources supporting
the city are becoming over burdened by this uncontrolled growth. Our
changed livelihood push us more towards a lifestyle that deteriorates us
psychologically and physically.
For Kolkata the growth in urbanization has taken a toll on various
infrastructures of the city. The reducing number of trees, the increased
air pollution, siltation of the main sewage canals leading to frequent
flooding during monsoon and reducing public spaces of the city hint
towards the decreasing standards of livability of the city.
this project aims to revitalize the existing network of canals of the city to
improve the quality of life in it. To achieve this goal it is important that the
canal edge be reimagined to be relevant for current times.
3

A CONJECTURAL MAP SHOWING CALCUTTA IN 1680
(source: https://puronokolkata.com/2018/06/17/finding-dhurrumtollah/.)
Before 1756
1756-1793
1793-1856
After 1856
Kolkata as we know today was a collection of 3
hamlets; Sutanuti, Gobindapur and Kolikata,
interspersed with creeks and dense forest
which connected the Hoghly river in the west and
Saltlake in the east. These creeks served drainage of
stormwater and sewage along the natural slope
which was then carried to the sea.
Kolkata was highly altered by urban prosperity during the British rule. Facilities like
roads, canals and other infrastructures were built to support the rising need of
Kolkata as a city. With continued development migration from surrounding areas
inflated thus increasing the pressure on its infrastructure. During partition of 1947
the population of Kolkata spiked up due to the inflow of migrants from
neighbouring country of East Pakistan. Over time Kolkata continued densifying
with time, and thus the infrastructures of the city started failing.
MAP SHOWING INCREASE IN URBANIZATION
(source:An Overview of the Impacts of Land Use Land Cover Changes (1980–2014) on Urban Water Security of Kolkata,
Subham Mukherjee, Wiebke Bebermeier and Brigitta Schütt.)
4

Map of Kolkata 1785,(source: British Library )
the map shows the water network of the region which were modified to create the network of canals existing at present
5

1.1: CURRENT URBAN ISSUES
6

MAP SHOWING DECREASE IN
GREEN COVER OVER 34 YEARS
(source: An Overview of the Impacts of Land Use Land Cover
Changes (1980–2014) on Urban Water Security of Kolkata,Subham
Mukherjee, Wiebke Bebermeier and Brigitta Schütt.)
In recent times green cover has dipped at an
alarming rate and now stands at a mere
4.79% The minimum requirement of Indian
cities is 15% and other metropolises like Delhi
and Mumbai stand at 19.09% and 18%
respectively.
1980 1990 2000
2010 2014
7

MAP SHOWING DECREASE IN OPEN SPACES OVER 34 YEARS
(source: An Overview of the Impacts of Land Use Land Cover Changes (1980–2014) on Urban Water Security of Kolkata,Subham Mukherjee, Wiebke Bebermeier and Brigitta Schütt.)
1990 2000
2004 2010
Rampant development has
reduced its open spaces in
Kolkata to a bare minimum
of 5.5% from 13% in the past
d e c a d e T h i s s t a t i s t i c s
include maidan, excluding
which it would be only 3%.
The minimum requirement
for Indian cities is 15% of
open space.
8

REDUCED AIR QUALITY IN THE LAST DECADE
(source: West Bengal Pollution Control Board, Air Quality Information System, http://emis.wbpcb.gov.in/airquality/filter_for_aqi.jsp.)
PRIME AGENTS CAUSING WATERLOGGING IN KOLKATA
(source: Pluvial Flooding in Kolkata: A Case Study of the Major Streets in Northern, Southern and Central Kolkata, Deblina Mitra, Suranjana
Banerji.)
Kolkata is a city which is
already prone to flooding
because of it geographical
setting, being located on the
floodplain of river Hooghly.
T h e c a n a l s a r e a m a j o r
means of drainage for the
city. However increasing
pressure on the canals like
lack of desiltation
a n d d r e d g i n g ,
garbage dumping, risk
o f f l o o d i n g i n K o l k a t a
increases.
Reduced air quality
seems consistent
with the decreased
green cover. thus
pressurising central
kolkata majorly
DECREASING
WALKABILITY IN THE CITY
A recent survey by Delhi-based Centre for Science
and Environment (CSE) reveals that walkability
index of Kolkata is 0.81, which is lesser than other
metropolises like Mumbai and Delhi. Walkability
reflects the built environment and overall livability
of any space.
It relates to security, comfort and attractiveness of
any street. Over one fourth of Kolkata’s population
are walkers however the street conditions are far
from suitable for this purpose. Improving walkability
in Kolkata would reduce its dependence on fuel to
a large extent.
9

PLAN OF WATER NETWORK KOLKATA AREA 2018
(source: Google Map.)
need for addressing the canal
system
The canal system of Kolkata is an approx. 1800 km
stretch spread throughtout the city like a network. This
extensive length of majorly redundant spaces abused
and neglected provide an excellent opportunity to be
utilised for mitigating the current urban scenario
It is itself is an existing network of green blue infrastructure
laid on the city which serves crucial ecological purpose.
It is important urban sewage infrastructure of the
city. Which turns gives huge financial benefit to the city,
allowing it to work on only 2 waste treatment plants.
It is a 250 year old water infrastructure heritage which
needs to be recognized to save its further deterioration.
10

1.2: EVOLUTION
Tolly Nullah and the south-eastern Calcutta suburbs of Alipore and Kalighat in 1860
(Photographer: Samuel Bourne , Source: British Library)
11

Bidhyadhari River a
Northern Distibutary
of the river Hooghly
still functional.
Hooghly changed
its course speeding
up deterioration of
Bidyadhari defunct,
and in the process
also arresting the
increase in the spill
areas due to silt
deposition.
As the process of
delta formation
s t o p s t h e E a s t
Kolkata Wetland
emerges in the low
lying area and the
drainage system
b a s e d o n t h e
c h a r a c t e r i s t i c
slope of the city
towards the EKW
emerges.
TOLLY NULLAH
The silted bed of Adi
Ganga was excavated
by Edward Surman in
1 7 7 3 w a s l a t e r r e -
excavated by William
Tolly and connected to
the present Circular
Canal. This excavation
diverted the water
from Bidyadhari and
sped its degeneration
d u e t o i n c r e a s e i n
siltation.
BELIAGHATA CANAL
Abandoned in 1800,
the Beliaghata Canal
was re-excavated
and transportation
started along this
route.
drainage
agriculture
trade
transportation
pisciculture
metro corridor
1600
1700
1750
1773-75
1806-10
active
redundant
pre-independence
12

CIRCULAR CANAL
Major Shalch had
p r o p o s e d a n e w
canal for navigation
along the original
route of the Maratha
ditch. This canal was
e x t e n d e d f r o m
Chitpur to Beliaghata
Canal.
1829-33
NEW CUT CANAL
It was introduced
between Dhapa and
Chitpur to reduce
b o a t t r a f f i c
c o n g e s t i o n i n
B e l i a g h a t a a n d
Circular canal
DWF & SWF CANALS
Both channels run
p a r a l l e l t o e a c h
other, excavated in
1 9 3 9 a n d 1 9 3 7
respectively as the
main drainage artery
of the city . These
channels divided
bidyadhari in two
h a l v e s c a u s i n g
further degeneration
ALTERATION OF EKW
B i d y a d h a r i w a s
abandoned and Kutli
O u t f a l l S c h e m e
p r o p o s e d . I n t h e
t r a n s i t i o n y e a r s t h e
eastern marshes were
u t i l i z e d f o r s e w a g e
deposition this caused
the marshes to change
from salt water lakes to
fresh water lakes.
BHANGAR CANAL
B h a n g a r C a n a l w a s
extended as a part of
the Kultigong plan. At
present it drains a part of
the north Kolkata the
new township of saltlake
and the vast rural area
abutting it.
KESTOPUR CANAL
It forms the northern
boundary of Saltlake
was initially excavated
to ease the water traffic
o n B e l i a g h a t a a n d
Circular Canal and to
eliminate a longer route.
In 1948 kestopur canal
was joined with Bhangar
Canal
1859
1883
1921
1928-43
1897
13

MIGRATION
During the partition of 1947 the
city saw an increase in the rate
of inflow of migrants. Many
migrants settled along the
Tolly Nullah, Circular canal and
New Cut canal as they were
the available public spaces of
the city.
Due to partition trade permit
was discontinued and the
canals lost one of their main
function of trade.
RECLAMATION
To cope with the pressures of
urbanization the marshes of
Saltlake were proposed to be
reclaimed for the new township
of Bidhannagar.
METRO CORRIDOR
Extension project of Metro
Railway from Tollygunge to
Garia was proposed to be
taken over the Tolly Nullah. This
c a u s e d t h e c a n a l t o b e
bisected with 200 pillars at
interval of 20 m.
post-independence
TOLLY NULLAH 2018
(source: SEARCH organization, Photograph: Anik .)
1960-80
1999-2001
1945-60
14

1.3: SYNOPSIS
15

objective
To cater to the needs of decreasing social infrastructure of
the city like public space, green cover, and lesser
walkability.
Reimagine the canal edge to reinstate its past glory of
cultural connection to the city
aim
A holistic approach towards Revitalization of the canal
network to increase the standards of livability of the city.
research question
How can the canal corridors of the city
be reimagined as a holistic system for it
to be relevant in present times and
serve as a breathing corridor of the
city?
scope
To develop a concept for the larger system and limit the
detail design for a limited stretch of 1.8 km
To design from a contextual and a more humanitarian
perspective than a touristic one
limitation
Although ecology is an important part of any canalfront
development. In depth exploration of the same would not
be the dealt in this thesis.
methodology
16

potential of the
strategy
in recent times many government
has attempted a beautification
drive of the canals which aim to
create a pleasant experience in
the city along canals and other
water bodies.
however it may be noted that a
holistic strategy towards revival of
canals and mitigation of urban
issues is yet to be seen, which
makes it an “opportunity lost”
scenario
obstructed access to the market
Patuli Floating market
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/spotlight/kolkatas-only-floating-market-
struggles-to-stay-afloat/articleshow/65164463.cms
contradiction of imagibility
Captain Bherry
http://www.thebeaconkolkata.co.in/captain-bheri/
obstructed acces to a walkway along a road
Eastern Canal Beautification
www.telegraphindia.com/states/west-bengal/bridges-over-salt-lake-canal/cid/1414406
non native species
Captain Bherry
http://www.thebeaconkolkata.co.in/captain-bheri/
17

CHAPTER 2: CONTEXT ANALYSIS
18

Water
Green
Road
physical
layers
The major and minor
roads along canals in
K o l k a t a i n d i c a t e
potential accessibility
throughout the length of
the canal.
Flowing through the
busiest areas of the city
t r e a t i n g t h e c a n a l s
w o u l d b e n e f i t t h e
ecological cultural and
social well being would
benefit these highly
urbanised areas.
19

elevation layer
the canals follow the general slope of the land to carry the city discharge
through the low lying areas of the east to the river kutli. these canals
serve as the main connection drainage and if lost would amount to a
huge infrastructural loss
direction of flow showing
major WTP and STPs
Water Treatment
plant
Water Inlet
Point
Pumping station/
Lockgate
Sewage
Treatment plant
water quality of canals as observed during survey (image source: author)
20

vegetation
From Marshland to a City: Once Kolkata was a marshy swamp forest
extending from the Sunderbans. However as a result of massive
urbanization since the 1600s today no forest remains in the Kolkata or
the adjoining districts. Outside Kolkata swamps devoid of trees and
large stretches of paddy fields exist with mostly planted trees. The only
remnant of the landscape today are the historic spaces which have
remained intact since its inception like the maidan, victoria memorial,
trees on city streets. The vegetation of Kolkata with its natural evolution
rightfully includes the native as well as the naturalised plants of the city.
Scientific Name Common Name Origin
Salmalia malabarica Red silk cotton tree native
Anthocephalus indicus Kadam native
Limonia acidissima Wood apple native
Ziziphus jujuba Ber native
Azadirachta indica Neem native
Zizyphus Jujuba Indian plum native
Acacia suma White cutch tree native
Moringa oleifera Drumstick tree native
Pongamia pinnata Indian beech native
Acacia arabica Babul native
Ficus religiosa Peepul native
Syzygium Cumini Black Plum native
Mangifera indica Mango native
Lannea grandis Jiyal native
Spondias mangifera Amra native
Leucaena glauca Subabul native
Diospyros cordifolia Tamal native
Diospyros peregrina Gaub native
Cordia dichotoma Bahubara native
Ficus religiosa Peepul native
Ficus benghalensis Banyan native
Ficus infectoria White fig native
Ficus Rumphii Golden Rumph's Fig native
Ficus hispida Hairy Fig native
Ficus glomerata Cluster Fig native
Pandanus tectorius Screw pine native
Polyalthia suberosa Bara chati native
Flacourtia indica Madagascar plum native
Tamarix gallica Indian tamarix native
Barringtonia acutangula Freshwater mangrove native
Hibiscus tiliaceous Cotton tree native
21

Alangium salvifolium Ankol native
Morinda citrifolia Indian mulberry native
Vitex negundo Chaste tree native
Vitex trifolia Indian privet native
Sapium sebiferum Chinese tallow native
Ardisia solanace Shoebutton ardisia native
Calotropis gigantea Crown flower native
Solanum verbascifolium Mullein nightshade native
Streblus asper Sand paper tree native
Trema orientalis Indian Charcoal tree native
Trewia nudiflora False White Teak native
Antidesma Ghaesembilla Black Currant Tree native
Litsaea monopetala bara-kukurchita native
Litsea chinensis Indian laurel native
Sterculia foetida Wild Indian Almond native
Polyalthia longifolia Ashok native
Salmalia malabarica Silk Cotton Tree native
Schleichera oleosa Kusum native
Artocarpus heterophyllus Kathal native
Putranjiva roxburghii Child Life Tree native
Tectona Hamiltoniana Dahat Teak naturalized
Pterospermum acerifolium Muchukunda native
Dilennia indica Chalta native
Dalbergia Sissoo Shisham native
Kleinhovia hospita Timanga Tree native
Millingtonia hortensis Indian Cork Tree native
Phoenix sylvestris Khajur native
Cassia fistula Amaltas native
Cassia siamea Kassod native
Albizzia Lebbek Shirish native
Anthocephalus cadamba Kadam native
Mimosops elengi Bakul native
Syzygium Cumini Jamun native
Terminalia catappa Indian Almond native
Lagerstroemia speciosa Jarul native
Delonix regia Gulmohar naturalised
Borassus flabellifer Taal naturalised
Swietenia macrophylla Big Leaf Mahogony naturalised
castanospermum australe Moreton Bay Chestnut naturalised
Peltophorum pterocarpum Copperpod naturalised
Colvillea racemosa Colville's Glory naturalised
Samanea saman Rain Tree naturalised
22

soil layer
Brown Forest Soil
Terai Teesta alluvial region
Gangetic alluvial region
Vindhya alluvial region
Coastal region
Red and Laterite
Gravelly
Source: Author
data source: Soils of West Bengal. P. Chakraborty, Ms S Chakraborty
Gangetic alluvial region
(Murshidabad, Nadia, Hoogly,
Burdwan and North 24 Parganas)
Origin: Gangetic alluvium
Deep neutral soil
Most fertile soil of West Bengal
Avg Rainfall: 375mm
Wettest Month: July
Avg Temperature: 30.4
°C
Maximum Temperature:
40 °C
Minimum Temperature:
9 °C – 11 °C
Warmest month: May
Coolest month: January
Avg Daylight hour in
Summer: 13hr
Avg Daylight hour in
Winter: 11 hr
The climate is hot and humid with heavy rainfall during the monsoon. Hence factors like
shade and flooding should be considered when providing any solutions for the future.
Slum Population
32%
Average family
income/month
1685-3370rs
Majority of people interacting with the canal regularly are from
weaker economic background.
23

cultural identity
festivals
sports
shopping streets
adda
food
cultural identity of a place are the factors that bind a community together. kolkata like many other places is defined and understood through its culture of durga
puja, college street, theatre, coffee house, new market, book fair, neighbouhood sports and adda. these when understood as elements help us decode the
relationship between successful public spaces and the people.
small scale gatherings
public events
24

CHAPTER 3: TYPOLOGY ANALYSIS
25

circular canal
The canal passes through the highly urbanised city core, edge is encroached by slum and used for activities related to household, small scale business and parking
while the surrounding land use mixed. The streets abutting the canal in most cases are devoid of public transport routes. Innumerable small shrines along the edges.
new cut canal
New Cut canal has a mixed development on the southern side. The street character is highly similar to the circular canal. As the canal approaches the Kestopur canal
the development changes to largely residential.
kestopur canal
The Kestopur canal in parts of Laketown is influenced by a beautification drive by the government. The upper storey of the green is intact in most places except the
beautified stretch. The rest of the stretch leading to Bhangar canal is characterised by residential and agricultural land use
26

The land use is characteristically the edge between urban extension of Kolkata and land for agriculture and pisciluture. A part of the stretch is still encroached
while a part has been relocated. The stretch is comparatively cleaner however industrial effluents are discharged into the water from nearby industries.
swf canal
beliaghata canal
The Beliaghata canal edge supports a residential settlement with a green canal edge, commercial development with the canal edge used for various purposes
supporting the land use, slum areas which exhibit all types of uses from dumping to residence to small scale business activity.
tolly canal
Tolly Nullah is a long stretch which varies drastically along its course. Along its course it supports residential commercial and mixed land use like in the kudghat stretch.
In parts of Kalighat it sees a religious influence, where not only one of the most pious temples of Kolkata is placed on its edge but the use of the canal and the
surrounding land use is also impacted by it. The construction of metro pillar have impacted the water course, virtually stagnating its flow
27

Flow chart showing various categories of Canal edge across Kolkata, the activities the harbour and the resultant impact they generate
(image source: Author)
28

MARKET
SLUM
WALL
PARKS AND GREEN EDGE
29

RELIGIOUS
OPEN SPACE
RESIDENTIAL
SERVICES
30

HIGHWAY
SERVICES (bus stand)
RESIDENTIAL
31

LACK OF ACCESS
LACK OF AWARENESS
CONNECTIVITY
VISUAL AESTHETICS
STENCH
LACK OF ASSOCIATION /
LOST CONNECT
GARBAGE DISPOSAL
EXISTING GREEN EDGE
NEGLECT HERITAGE
BIO DIVERSITY
DIRTY WATER
NOSTALGIA
key learnings:
32

CHAPTER 4: OBSERVATION AND ANALYSIS
OF DEMONSTRATION STRETCH
33

demonstration
stretch:
kestopur canal
Part of the Circular- New cut-
kestopur canal system.
Entire length of the canal is 20
km.
Drains areas of Laketown,
Bangur, Dum Dum park, Saltlake,
Rajarhat, Bhangar
Experiences tidal effects from
Hooghly and Kulti river
The annual high flood line is 2.75
- 3m
The full drainage depth of this
canl is 2.42m
34

Site area: Stretch of 1.8 km
District: North 24 parganas
The stretch is located at the urban fringe of Kolkata Metropolitan Core in the
North 24 parganas. It is a highly developing region at present and is
experiencing an developmental peak with increasing population and
amenities, and on the other hand results in decreasing resources required for
a healthy living. This makes it the right time to insert a holistic
urban image that enriches the quality of life.
35

1600s 1700s 1800s 1990-95 1995-
2000
Evolution of laketown lying on the fringe of Kolkata is highly influenced by the emerging city. As the city grew the marshes and low lying areas of Laketown and
Bangur were developed to accomodate its sprawl. At present this area is highly densified and developing zone and has emerged as a major node connecting the
city to its northern areas.
evolution of site area
environmental significance of site selection
Green corridor which existed along Kestopur Canal Kestopur Canal at present
2006: Trees felled to make way for Footbridge
near Sreebhumi
2008: Trees felled to make way for Ultadanga
flyover
2009: Trees damaged due to dumping of
dredged soil
2016: 519 trees felled for road expansion
2017: Avenue of Samanea saman destroyed
due to development of a diesease

The stretch of Kestopur canal from ultadanga to
Laketown boasted a green corridor from all
along the canal. Some of them planted by the
forest department in the 1970s and many trees
were added later in phases. However their
value for maintaining the ecology of the place
has been neglected repeatedly.
Over time Kestopur canal lost its green verge completely and along with it the biodiversity. Kestopur Canal
beautification project could have easily been the opportnity of returning the green back to the canal. However
no such afforestation attempt was observed. With increasing importance of this area as a major node it is implied
that in near future it will undergo massive development which would further pressurize the green resources of this
place. Hence it is of utmost importance that an attempt to be made towards a more inclusive way of
development without sacrificing the ecology of the place.
36

cultural significance
The Site stretch of Laketown, Bangur and especially Sreebhumi has always been a famous attraction for Durga puja. In recent times
Christmas Carnival, the Bangur book fair and also an upcoming weekend streethas added to the list of major local events arragend here.
Such events witness large footfalls from people especially from the surrounding area of South Dum Dum municipality. But inspite of a strong
potential cultural stage the site area has no strong identity to adhere to. Especially in context of its public art, the biggest example of this is
the huge landmark of Laketown which is a replica of the Big Ben, London. Even the public spaces of this area are treated on borrowed
concepts that contradict the context.
Hercules at Eco nest
social significance
Chhota Bheem at Eco nestChristmas carnival at Laketown
Book fair at Bangur
The site area is a highly densified zone which has small and scattered public spaces of low impact. However the fact that the need for public space is rising can be
witnessed in the increased government initiatives and success rate of recent initiaves like eco nest which is the Nayanjuli Water body development project. Although
it might be questioned on grounds of cultural identity and environmental restoration the success of public participatrion in this project is unquestionable. However a
space large enough to meet the needs of the time is still awaited. Another attempt which could have a strong impact on the area has been limited to a superficial
idea of 'beautification'. The Kestopur Canal Beautification project, had the potential of becoming a public space of strong impact however it has failed to attract the
attention as anticipated. Thus it could be said the need for an effective and impactful public space is yet to be fulfilled in this area.
the access to the park along
the length of the road has been
barred allowing entry at only 2
point
lack of shade discouraging public
activity throughout the day. Few
seating unable to capacitate more
public gathering or activity
a clear patch of land along
the road lies unused by either
the park (by fencing) or the
road.
the dirty canal water rendering
the meaning of canalside
development meaningless and
avertinging public involvement
Big Ben replica at Laketown
37

1. Park Entry 2. Bangur Bus Stop 4. Laketown Footbridge.3. Encroachment View from Footbridge.
5. Canal View 6. Rickshaw stand 7. Traffic Guard House 8. Saltlake road 9. WTP
10. Sreebhumi Footbridge
11. Bus stop Golaghata
12. Fence
1
2
3
4 5
67
8
9
10
11
12
1
38

The site area is highly built with the canal and a major road along it divides it into two parts.
3 footbridges connect both sides and gives maximum visual access to the canal.
There are small and scattered pockets of green which area existing in the site.
site surrounding
0 500m
Footbridge
Water body
Open spaces
Built form
Road network
39

SECTION BB
SECTION AA
existing sections
Footbridge Parallel Water
Body
Parallel Open
space
Urban Catchment
point
Urban Node
typologies
along the
canal
40

SECTION DD
SECTION CC
41

SECTION FF
SECTION EE
SECTION GG
42

surrounding land use:
The two sides of the canal respond to very different settings, residential
sector of planned development of Saltlake brings user group of mostly
higher class people while the other edge invite users from various sources
from pedestrians to school children to office goers. Hence the activity
pattern on the Laketown side is more public oriented
and on the other side it is more community oriented.
0 500m
Institutional
Commercial
Mixed use
Utilities
Open spaces
Residential
Recreational
Median
Institutional
Unused
0 500m
The main open spaces in terms of scale and success are the canal edge green,
AE Block green verge the Apanjan park in Bangur and Eco nest. However,
these patches of scattered green fails to create any strong impact on the area
and provides a potential opportunity for this place to be developed as a
connected green zone in the upcoming future.
open space typology:
43

0 500m 0 500m
Sub Arterial Road
Collector Road
Local Road
Vehicular movement
Pedestrian movement
Stoppage point
VIP road and the Jessor road connector road; major sub arterial and
collector road respectively are the busiestroad on the site. Both these
road contain movements of public, private and para-transit vehicles. The
collector road just abutting the canal on the saltlake side contains only
Cycle rickshaws as a para transit mode of transport except for private
vehicles.
The vehicular activity follows the road patterns. The busiest ones are VIP road
and VIP and Jessore road connector. The major existing pedestrian activities are
both utilitarian i.e access to vehicular node points and recreational, along the
eco nest and the Kestopur canal beautification project. This shows the
potential and need for developing a pedestrian network for
the region
road hierarchy mapping: circulation mapping:
44

0 500m 0 500m
visual mapping: noise level mapping:
The most impactful view of the canal can be seen from the footbridges.
While the canal can be viewed from both sides the impact from the
saltlake side is limited due to a row of residences abutting the road,
whereas from the other side the impact is much more due to the road
width and the urban node of Laketown. Potential of creating a
view and an image.
The residential side has lower noise levels creating a calm and quaint
atmosphere. The laketown edge with continuous traffic is much busier with
higher noise levels. Need for noise buffer to create various site
experiences
Higher noise level
Medium noise level
Low noise level
45

0 500m
Religious Marker
Cultural Marker
cultural pattern: water discharge:
Grey water from the surrounding
area is discharged directly into the
canal without any treatment through
pipelines opening into the canal. No
segregation of grey and storm water
is found here.
Site photo showing drainage outlet at regular interval
direction of water flow from the surrounding areas
Potential for accomodating the cultural scene of the area.
Activities like these display community bonding and cohesion. And thus the
increased success rate of public spaces.
46

Comparison of physiochemical and microbiological parameters with established
standards of drinking water (WHO 1998 and IS: 105000: 1991)
Comparison of metal concentration with established standards of drinking water
(WHO 1998 and IS: 105000: 1991)
water quality study:
Causes of Pollution: Waste and contaminant from
domestic sewage, High traffic density and transportation
along channel, disposal of solid wastes from market
complexes and other commercial spaces nearby.
Impacts of physiochemical and microbiological
parameters seen in Kestopur Canal:
Ph: Withing recommended standards.
EC: affects the taste of water, is unsuitable for aquatic life or
irrigation.
Turbidity: Increased turbidity reduces the amount of light
penetration, dissolved oxygen in water and also affects the colour
of water.
TDS: Mainly relates to the aesthetic quality of water rather than
the health effects.
Hardness: Within permissible limits.
DO: Affects general health of the water body, essential to survival
of organisms which cause the self purification of water, and all
othe aquatic life in general.
BOD: high BOD level is harmful for aquatic life, affects the taste of
water, indicates biologically degradable pollutants.
COD: Indicates biologically resistant pollutants and chemical
pollutants
Cl: Within permissible standards.
NO3: Within permissible standards
Coliform: Indicates presence of human sewage and animal
droppings leading to health disorder on consumption. Reason
behind reduced DO and high BOD level of water.Impacts of metal concentration seen in Kestopur Canal:
Fe: causes microbial growth, gives bad taste to water and stains clothes when in
contact with water.
Cr: within permissible limit.
Cd: Have adverse health effects like kidney damage and brittle bones.
Pb: Within permissible limit.
As: Causes cancer.
47

This edge of the site has sparse tree cover hence unshaded. The park is
segregated from the main public flow with high fence. Very few
seatings are provided. The canal side walkway is the only part of
the site that is used by few walkers and joggers. Features like water body
and palm grove do not add value to the landscape. Many wasted
spaces which are neither part of the parks or the road can be observed
thoughout the site.
existing site pattern
salt lak e
residential
edge
The tree cover of this edge has been maintained hence allowing more
public participation comparatively inspite of a similar design
approach as the other side. Walkways and the few seating are used for
walks and rest under the shade. The small play area attracts few children
due to the mosquitoes from the dirty canal. Wasted spaces are
observed on this edge as well including parts of the park which are
cordoned from public use.
Overall the design seems isolated and exclusive hence
limiting its success potential
laketown edge
adjacent to road
48

survey
54 samples were studied over a course of 5 days incuding weekdays, weekends and occassions. The time of survey was morning, evening and afternoon.
inference:
• People of this area are showing
positive interest in
participating towards the idea
of a public space.
• But the lack of association
as can be understood from the
most common answer that
people like nothing specific
about the park; this could be
one of the reasons obstructing
its success.
• There is a need for the public
activities to be made more
inclusive to the surrounding
49

CHAPTER 5: STRATEGIES FOR HOLISTICALLY IMPROVED CANAL
EDGE ENVIRONMENT
50

city level vision:
ity level network of green corridor. Safe and comfortable access Water transport corridor
discharge of
only treated
grey water in
the canal
strategies aim towards a holistic improvement of the
city living standard by increasing the canopy
cover percentage, encouraging
walkability and giving a purpose to
the canals which relat es more
intimately with the public
51

Programmatic strategies:
• Strict segregation of grey water and storm water.
• Installation of more treatment plants for city’s grey water
• Ony treated grey water be allowed to be discharged in the canals.
• Establishing a committee dedicated solely to regular maintenance of canal and its
edge. Thus formulating specific schedule for all regular and intermittent
maintenance activities like dredging, desiltation, removal of clogged waste and
garbage collection.
• Regular execution of maintenance schedule for Canal by concerned authorities
like dredging, desiltation and removal of clogged waste material at regular interval.
• The canal edge be divided into smaller stretches for better management and
supervision of restoration policies.
• Generate awareness program involving the local youth and community clubs of
the neighborhoods adjacent to the canals.
• Create employment opportunities for locals in canal maintainance and restoration
program.
• Civic amenities like dustbins to be provided at every 300 m interval and public
toilets at every node.
• Prohibit waste dumping on canal edge by levying strict penalty on
offender/offenders.
• Stacking of materials which could be potentially polluting to the water edge to be
prohibited
• Stacking of other products to be allowed at not more than 20% of the canal edge
to minimize visual pollution. Land for stacking to be rented on pre-decided
incentives.
Fig showing water segregation strategy
Fig showing programmatic management strategy for canal system
52

Local design strategies:
• Implement water purification technique by natural methods like
constructed wetland, soil filtration, use of aquatic plant.
• Installation of garbage nets at regular intervals.
• Create a green corridor all along the edge of the canal.
• Plant selection to be done considering native vegetation of the place,
suitability to the climatic conditions of the place and its environmental
impact.
• Planting high canopy shady trees at a minimum of 10m c/c upto a
maximum of 20m c/c as high canopy trees allows uninhibited visual
connection with the edge at all times thus increasing the safety
standards of the place.
• Optimum illumination of the canal edge during the night time to allow
public activity.
• All hard plot boundary walls facing the canal could be replaced with
soft edge or transparent fencing.
• Mandatory provision of pedestrian access all along the canal.
• Encourage small scale commercial activity to increase security of the
canal through eyes on canal approach.
• Highlight the heritage value of the canal and the importance of its
preservation through facade treatment, signage and art installations.
• Use porous walls to block the canal edge wherever waste treatment
plants are located to prevent garbage dumping while allowing visual
access.
Green cum
Public
Corridor
Transparent
Boundary
Facade
Treatment
Water
purification
53

area specific strategies
Residential Areas:
• In case of residential areas, Develop the canal edge as an
open public space catering particularly to the needs of
community interaction and gathering.
Slums:
• All dwelling built right on the edge of the canals need to be
shifted a minimum distance from the canal to allow for a
vegetated buffer.
• Development of the canal edge as a multiple use stretch
which accommodate household activities as well as
community congregations.
• Relocation of the slums with compensatory incentive to be
proposed.
Roadways:
• In cases where a major road is abutting the canal stretch
the edge to be treated as an inclusive pedestrian edge.
• Use of avenue trees in road edge planting.
Public Node Strategies:
• Public activity nodes like markets, bus stands to be developed
as major nodes (in relevant scale specific to the context) for
public congregation and canal experience in utilitarian and
recreational manner.
• Religious institutions to utilized to highlight the religious sentiment
attached to the canal and attach a sense of respect to the
water system.
Water transport Strategies
• Introducing ferry service in selected stretches as a pilot project,
which could further be expanded as an elaborate system on
success.
• The routes should be formulated based on 3 typology of stop
points. Tourist points, Vehicular node points and Local stop
points like markets.
• The stop point for the transport node should be treated in
appropriate scale to the surrounding context.
• Signage should be provided for easy navigation
54

CHAPTER 6: CONCEPT AND INTERVENTION
55

concept development:
Design Intent:
The design intends to tap into
the memory and instinctive
association of people to the
canals to create a place
which is inherent to the
context and thus the psyche
of its people. This would give
a sense of belonging to the
u s e r a n d t h u s w o u l d
e n c o u r a g e i n t e r a c t i o n
b e t w e e n m a n a n d
landscape to create a place
which is loved for its present
and treasured for its future.
Design Strategy:
The design strategy is to use
Reinvention, Restoration and
Participation as a method for
reconnecting the people to
the canals. Thus it intends to
create a space which isat the
same time accessed for
leisure and utility. To make this
possible the design intends to
create spaces which are:
Flexible
Visible
Accessible
Has a strong purpose to it
56

association to canals:
the scenes sum up the various instances in which the city interacted with its canals
during the times in which it was a part of the daily livelihood. it might be observed
that these water channels have been the stage for transport, commerce,
industry, religion, aesthetics and day to day life of people
quiet niches
access along the
canals
edge green
flexibility of
movement
congregation
nodes
visual expanse
residential neighbourhood ferry ghat
loading and unloading boat ride in canal
market temple
57

0 500m
green cover
Mandatory preservation of
existing trees all along the
canal and addition on the
Laketown side to substitute
the currently existing barren
stretches.
proposed trees
58

water transport movement and stoppage points
water transport circuit
0 500m
Water transport corridor with stoppage
points at existing bus stops. For point which
do not have a footbridge a ghat should be
created on both sides of the canal.
59

movement responsive to abutting road
movement responding to the canal 0 500m
access and circulation
Circulation at the Canal edge need to cater two
purposes of leisure and utility as it responds to both
walkers and regular pedestrians.
60

major node
minor node
smaller pockets
0 500m
activity nodes
The continuous stretch of green cover and
pedestrian access is interspersed by major
and minor nodes which act as magnet
point to increase the footfall in the area.
61

master plan
major node
minor node
water transport movement
and stoppage points
green cover
0 500m
The design is visualized as a continuous
green space which is used by people
both for the purpose of utility and
leisure.
62

water purification network
water purification strategy
Median swales and constructed strip
wetland along the river could serve as
probable means to collect the grey water and
transfer it to the treatment plant and further
release it to the canals from a point source.
This strategy needs to be validated through
detail study of the wetland and median
construction which is out of the scope of this
thesis.
Probable location for median swale and constructed wetland along water edge subject to detail analysis
Concept illustration for median swale and
constructed wetland along water edge
63

proposed general section
DETAIL A
ROAD
PATHWAY
BANK
VEGETATION
DETAIL B DETAIL C
64

proposed general view
image depicts the continuous green cover, access and pause points to be followed as a strategy along water edges.
65

0M
1M
3M
DETAIL AA
DETAIL AB
SECTION AA (NTS)
0 1 5 10m2
Section AA (B): T h i s e d g e i s
maintained as a green zone with
minimum intervention as followed
throughout the canal
Sectin AA (A): This section responds
to the Golaghata footbridge on the
Laketown side thus it has been
visualized as a minor node cum
stoppage point for water transport in a
smaller scale as this node exhibits
comparatively lesser congestion.
66

jetty stoppage point
green edge
67

SECTION BB (NTS)
0M
1M
3M
DETAIL BA
DETAIL BB
0 1 5 10m
Section BB (B): This responds to the residential
settlement on the saltlake side. Considering the
absence of a market in the vicinity, a knack for a
morning walk followed by vegetable shopping
amongst people and the history of markets along
the edge of the canal, this edge has been
provided with a linear market buffered from the
immediate canal edge by a buffer strip to prevent
garbage dumping.
Section BB (A): This
section responds to
t h e S r e e b h u m i
footbridge on the
Laketown side thus it
has been visualized as
a Jetty point buffered
b y a t h i c k g r e e n
patch.
68

market stretch
green edge,
walkways and
pause points
69

0M
1M
3M
SECTION CC (NTS)
DETAIL CA
DETAIL CB
0M
1M
3M
0 1 5 10m
Section CC (B): This edge is maintained as a green zone
with minimum intervention as followed throughtout the
canal
Section CC (A): This edge has been denoted as a
substitute to the celebratory ground on the opposite side of
the canal. Aims towards flexible spaces which can be used
as a celebration ground on occassion. It is buffered on the
both sides by shady tree cover for shade and aesthetics.
70

celebration
ground
green edge,
walkways and
pause points
71

informal
interactive
zone
continuing
towards
celebration
ground
72

DETAIL DA
DETAIL DB
SECTION DD (NTS)
0M
1M
3M
0M
1M
3M
0 1 5 10m
Section DD (A): This is the
busiest part of the whole stretch
by the virtue of its location.
Hence this has been visualised
as a major urban node which
serves dual purpose of a Jetty
point. This intends to allow space
for the congestion to dissipate
and connect the alternate route
of water traffic to the road
network.
Section DD (B): This edge is
m i n i m u m i n t e r v e n t i o n a s
followed throughtout the canal
73

the laketown
n o d e p o i n t ,
an interactive
z o n e c u m
s t o p p a g e
p o i n t w i t h
commer cial
insertions to
e n c o u r a g e
activation the
node
74

laketown node
on saltlake side,
s h o w i n g t h e
congregation
a r e a a n d t h e
secluded green
walk that runs
parallel to it
75

DETAIL EA
DETAIL EB
SECTION EE (NTS)
0 1 5 10m
Section EE (A): This edge has been imagined as a
flexible open space allowing group activity and
congregation. It consists of one of the many
majecstic dead trunks of Samanea saman. For the
memory of what once existed there the tree trunk
has been preserved while the others removed.
Section EE (B): This edge responds to the Saltlake AE Block green verge
which exists adjacent to the site and it has also been treated as a pause
point to highlight not only the the ecological but also the aesthetic
importance of biodiversity. Features like mound have been incorporated
which encourage informal activity, along with a raised pathway which
brings you closer to nature.
76

congregation area
green mound
77

DETAIL FA
DETAIL FB
0M
1M
3M
0M
1M
3M
SECTION FF (NTS)
0 1 5 10m
Section FF (B): This has been treated
as a node point responding to the
institutional zone and the adjacent
node. It is visualized as an informal
i n t e r a c t i v e e d g e w h i c h a l s o
incorporates a jetty point.
Section FF (A): This part of the canal
edge is a comparatively narrower
stretch. The pathway on both sides are
separated by a thick buffer and the
general section for green cover and
pedestrian access follows here as well.
78

greenwalk
i n f o r m a l
interactive
zone
79

DETAIL GA
0M
1M
3M
SECTION GG (NTS)
0 1 5 10m
DETAIL GB
0M
1M
3M
Section GG (A): Similar to
Section FF (A) This edge is a
comparatively narrower stretch
minimum intervention as followed
throughtout the canal
Section GG (B): This edge is a huge
stretch of thick existing green which has
been maintained and it has been
developed as a This edge is maintained
a s a g r e e n z o n e w i t h m i n i m u m
intervention as followed throughout the
canal
80

road - canal
interaction
on VIP road
green zone
81

viewing deck
tree court
82

road - canal
interaction
o n s a l t l a k e
road
83

THANK YOU
The design at a larger level aims to revive
the blue green network of the city to
mitigate the resource crisis the city is
facing at present.
In the future it provides an opportunity
for all reclaimed land to be drained by
canals connected to a larger system
which attempts to prevent the perils of
urbanization as seen today.
Most importantly this attempt is aimed
towards creating a system that is
experienced and protected by the
people.
A BL UE G R E E N
NETWORK OF THE
CITY USED AND
PROTECTED BY ITS
PEOPLE
84

Sampriti Saha_Master's of Landscape Architecture Thesis

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