Roll of Heritage Cells in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) For Revival of Heritage Cities in India

January 17th, 2010 Posted by pino

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Roll of Heritage Cells in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)
For Revival of Heritage Cities in India
NATIONAL WORKSHOP
ON
Cultural, Heritage and Religious Cities
Peer Experience And Reflective Learning (PEARL), JNNURM
2nd February, Madurai
By:
Shri Debashish Nayak
Advisor, Heritage Programme
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation
Sanskar Kendra–City Museum,
Opposite National institute of Design (NID),
Paldi, Ahmedabad – 380 006
Gujarat, India
Phone: + 91-79-2657 4335
+ 91-79-3298 4116
Mobile: +91 98240 32866
E-mail: debashishnayak@rediffmail.com
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Roll of Heritage Cells in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)
For Revival of Heritage Cities in India
Shri Debashish Nayak
Quality of the built environment of a place depends largely on its architectural and visual
features. It is often stated that one can judge our society by the degree to which it allows to
deteriorate   its quality. Therefore, it is utmost necessary to preserve them for posterity.
Most Indian cities with a long history have at their core areas of strong architectural and urban
character. These areas have been places of life, vitality, wealth, power, enlightenment and
culture. However these inner city areas have become marginalized in the process of urban
growth. This neglect has led to decay, depressed economic conditions and dilapidation leading to
migration of the population to newer areas
Old buildings and older areas of the city should be looked upon as assets rather than as liabilities
because they represent the history of communities, embodying their tradition, heritage and
culture through architecture and the urban form.
Experiences from all over the world has proved that revival and preservation of heritage and
modern development, if planned properly can fulfill the aspirations of the people, besides
bringing economic prosperity and sustainability.
However it is often noticed that in spite of having rich and diverse heritage resources, well
established public administrative set up and strong community network the historic urban
settlements in most of our cities are undergoing rapid decline due to pressures of urbanization
and various other factors such as:
1. Lack of proper policy
2. Lack of appropriate legal frame work
3. Lack of awareness and appreciation towards heritage properties
(General public- Administrators- political)
4. Lack of resources (Financial- Technical- skill)
It is a fact that so far only few thousands monuments of National importance are eligible for the
protection under the ASI (Govt. of India) and another few thousands under the state
governments, ensuring their preservation and care, while thousands of historic structures and
heritage areas are lying uncared.
The situation called for the finding alternative ways and means to develop mechanisms for the
revival and revitalization not only the built environment but also the cultural traditions and
intangible aspects of our old cities.
It is against this background and after undertaking a number of surveys, studies and initiatives
and learning experience the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) in collaboration with
CRUTA foundation, an N.G.O. has established the first Heritage Cell with in a ULB in the year
1996, which has now become a National Model for Heritage revival.
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Before we examine the Ahmedabad case let us look at few examples where similar initiatives
involving different partners were undertaken later by the other cities in the country.
Four different models emerged in various cities to understand the initiatives by involving
one or multiple partnership arrangement towards heritage revival are discussed below.
Model 1:- Rajasthan Government Public-Private peoples’ participation scheme for conservation
and development of cities having Heritage and Tourism importance.
A unique urban public-private peoples’ participation scheme was launched by the govt. of
Rajasthan for conservation and development of cities/towns having Heritage and Tourist
importance in the year 2004. The scheme proposed to cover the following cities/towns of
Rajasthan.
1. Ajmer, 2. Alwar, 3. Bharatpur, 4. Bikaner, 5.Banswara, 6.Bundi, 7.Chhabra, 8.Chittorgarh,
9.Deeg, 10.Dungarpur, 11. jaisalmer, 12.Jodhpur, 13.Jhalawar, 14.Kota, 15.Pushkar, 16.Sawai
Madhopur, 17.Udaipur, 18.Sikar, 19.Chomu, 20.Mandawa, 21.Nawalgarh, 22.Jhunjhunu,
23.Fatehpur
Under this scheme it was decided to establish a Heritage Cell in above said municipalities for
which a district level committee will be formed under the chairmanship of the Dist. Collector
with the following aims and objectives.
• Making history of the region enjoyable and relevant. Educating the public on the need for
protection and conservation of important sites.
• Developing sustainable programmes based on the history and tradition of the region for
the benefit of the local community without compromising the conservation needs of the
site. A step towards developing comprehensive master plans for heritage sites.
• Identification and development of Heritage Zones in smaller towns.
• The protection and conservation of the state’s natural and built heritage.
• To develop the tourism industry so as to make it instrumental in the state’s economic
growth.
•  To create awareness through publicity and educational programmes.
• To involve the community in tourism development and heritage management.
• Creates a sense of belonging and pride about heritage in the local population.
• Helps the local business and, most importantly. Craftsman to sell their good without
middleman.
• Highlighting areas of tourist and heritage importance. It was decided to take up 23 cities
for heritage conservation.
Towards conservation of Heritage properties in the above stated cities following
decisions were taken under this scheme.
• Total 23 cities of historical, heritage and tourist importance have been selected for
heritage conservation initiatives.
• A circular to this effect has been issued for selected urban local bodies of Rajasthan to
create a budget head for heritage component in the 2004-2005 budget of the local body.
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• There will be a formulation of a heritage cell in all the selected 23 cities. One engineer
from the local body and one town planner from the Town Planning Dept. will be deputed
to look after the works of the Heritage Cell.
• Listing of important monuments and buildings. Places of historic importance would be
taken up in consultation with INTACH.
• Under the chairmanship of District Collector, district level meetings of various
departments like, Department of Archeology, Town Planning, Tourism, Local Bodies,
etc. will be organized for better coordination and proper development of the town and
less duplication of the work in Heritage Sector.
• Help from Non-government Organizations working in the Heritage sector will also be
availed.
• Conservation regulation will be framed and provision in the model law will be
formulated.
• The Local Self Dept. shall be the nodal agency for the Heritage conservation projects.
Model 2:- Delhi Development Authority (DDA) / Mumbai Municipal Corporation   (MMC)
model.
In  both the above cases, the DDA as well as MMC looks after the Heritage Cell created
with in these ULBs under their direct control in the year…….( The aims and objectives
being almost as the same in other models and hence not been repeated here after)
Model 3:- Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) / Cochin Municipal Corporation (CMC)
The above stated municipal corporations have created Heritage Cell with in these ULBs
and then registered it as societies for better functional efficiency and autonomy.
Model 4:- Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) / Pondicherry Municipality
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) set up its Heritage Cell, the first of its kind in
India in collaboration with an N.G.O. – CRUTA (Foundation for Conservation and
Research of Urban Traditional Architecture) in 1996.
Pondicherry Municipality also in the same manner established a Heritage Cell in
partnership with INTACH (Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage) Having
briefly discussed four different models of Heritage Cells emerged in some of the
important cities of India, Let us examine the Ahmedabad Heritage initiatives, which falls
under Model- 4, in detail.
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Ahmedabad Heritage Initiatives:
Introduction:
Citizens get accustomed with their environment and gradually become less aware of it The City
becomes a habit. Herein lies the need to make the citizens aware of the importance of their built
environment and to help them develop a harmonious and contemporary relationship with it. In a
sense, urban renewal does not just rebuilding the city; it rebuilds people’s relationship with the
city. Educational and awareness programmes therefore are the most significant tool to achieve
continued relationship with the past.
Back ground:
Ahmedabad, a city with more than 600 years of continues history and culture was founded by
Sultan Ahmedshah-I on the ancient sites of Ashaval and Karnavati in the year 1411 (AD). The
city was taken over by the Mughals in 1574 followed by Marathas, and later administered by the
British from 1818, until 1947.
Ahmedabad is well known for its highly ornate historic mosques and tombs built in sand stone
and artistic Hindu and Jaina temples. The city which was known as “Manchester of the east” has
acquired its new found fame due to its association with India’s freedom movement and Mahatma
Gandhi. Ahmedabad now with an urban population of over 50 lakhs, is the 7th largest city of
India and is poised to acquire Mega City status.
The historic city wall of the 15th century (A.D.), 10 kms in circuit with 12 gates, enclosed an area
of 5.40 square kilometers, which is now hebetated by a population of over 4 lakhs. The walled
city is also the main business centre of Ahmedabad.
Ahmedabad’s built heritage is not limited to historic monuments. The carved wooden domestic
architecture in the poles of the old city is in no way artistically inferior to the historic stone
mosques or temples. The traditional houses of the rich in the poles, called Havelis display
fabulous wood work and sculpture (Pole is a traditional micro neighbourhood with cluster of
residential buildings protected by a gate, generally occupied by people belonging to a particular
caste, religion or profession). There are nearly 600 poles in the walled city.
Past Initiatives:
Inspite of having some steps taken as early as in 1885 by merchants and traders of Ahmedabad
for raising funds  “City Wall Restoration Fund”,  to be managed by a committee consisting of
government officials and citizens for restoring the city wall, there were no sustained effort to
preserve City’s heritage.
Factors affecting urban Decay:
The rapid industrialization, unplanned development and expansion saw the decay and
degeneration of the historic built heritage of the city. The historic fortification has been pulled
down to facilitate acess, the monuments are encroached upon, the Havelies and traditional
houses in the poles were neglected. People started migrating to newer areas of the city seeking
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modern settings and facilities, resulting neglect of their old dwellings back in the old city.
Basically all this happened due to lack of proper awareness, sense of belonging about the value
of the past creations. In some cases the old buildings were neglected for want of financial
recourses, while absence of technical support or proper craft persons were the reasons for
neglect.
Early Educational Initiatives:
Heritage educational programme, like any other similar programmes can be successful only
when the community comes forward to support and initiate related activities. This is possible
when the local people to whom the very heritage belongs understands its values, takes pride and
establish a sense of belonging.
Social and cultural festivals were used to generate awareness and mobilize communities.
Meetings, audio, visual shows, exhibitions, street plays, annual celebrations, cultural walks
books and publications are all of effective means of cultural education, and these means have
been engaged for the revival of city’s heritage from the beginning.
Involving children
One of the well known ways to make any programme successful and sustainable is to involve
young people particularly school children. “ Catch them young ” approach will be more
rewarding, as they grow up and become responsible citizens, not  only they will carry on the
cultural heritage initiatives, on their own, but also pass on the same tradition to the generation
next and then the process continue automatically.  This process can be termed as shaping of
attitudes.
Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Nehru Foundation for Development, Ahmedabad
conceived a programme called ‘Cultural Trails’, School Children were taken to the monuments
in the  walled city to understand history and cultural heritage of the city. The first was titled
Ahmedshahi, Trail – A Walk through Islamic monuments and the second was Haveli Trail – A
walk through old residential areas in poles. The programme evoked lots of interest amongst
school children and number of schools had participated in it.
The Role of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation:
Concerned with the rapid decline of cultural heritage resources, Ahmedabad Municipal
Corporation with the help of Ford Foundation, New Delhi undertook a study in 1985 to initiate
policies for the better preservation of heritage of Ahmedabad.
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) invited The Conservation and Research of Urban
Traditional Architecture (CRUTA) Foundation, Calcutta for helping it to take measures to arrest
decay and preserve the city’s heritage in 1996.
The AMC with the expert assistance from CRUTA had set up a Heritage Cell within the
Municipal Corporation in 1996 with the following aims and objectives:
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1. Create awareness among citizens and develop a comprehensive plan for the conservation of
the Walled City of Ahmedabad.
2. Enable communities to take pride in traditional built form, get involved in the process of its
revival.
Its objectives are to:
• Create awareness regarding heritage resources.
• Promote the traditional built forms.
• Support participatory action programme.
• Coordinate efforts of different disciplines, stake holders and authorities.
• Undertake tasks related to the promotion of traditional built forms, mobilizing finance
and resources that would not otherwise available to the area.
• Interface with concerned citizens public and private sectors.
Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation is the first local self-government body in India which
has taken the initiative to devise the Heritage Programme and implement a comprehensive
plan for the conservation and revitalization of the old city.
The idea behind establishing the Heritage Cell with in the Municipal Corporation was to educate
and create heritage awareness not only within the municipal system, but also amongst the local
communities at large.
The Heritage Cell, AMC took up the role of Catalyst, educator, facilitator and co-ordinator in
carrying out heritage programmes including strategic intervention with interested N.G.Os,
professional and voluntary agencies.
The heritage cell at AMC succeeded in introducing a bye-law in the General Development
Control Regulations prohibiting listed heritage property from being pulled down without prior
permission.  This eventually saved many structures in and around the walled city.
Community participation was recognized as a major method to convey the entire idea at a much
larger scale and ensure popular support. A series of activities were organized to elicit community
participation and ensure that people take pride in their surroundings and are involved in
conservation efforts. Meetings were held in the walled city ‘Khadia’ area to discuss strategies for
conservation and development of the area bringing together various citizens’ platforms.
Following this, citizen’s groups and the municipal authority jointly organized the first public
programme, ‘Preservation of the Past and Glimpses of History’ at Desai-ni-Pol in Khadia on 19th
November 1996. The residents of Desai-ni-Pol (its rebellious past during British rule gave it a
place in history), released a booklet to mark heritage day, listing the historical homes and
personalities who lived in the area as also a chronicle of important events.
Heritage Walk:
In order to propogate and popularize the city’s heritage the AMC in association with the CRUTA
Foundation launched a heritage walk through the historic core of the old city in 1997. The first
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such walk ever was started by the CRUTA Foundation in Calcutta in the year 1988. Now the
Ahmedabad Model of Cultural Heritage Walk has become a national model and many cities like
Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Amritsar, Pondicherry, Cochin and Delhi etc. are replicating it.
The objective behind launching the walk was to initiate public awareness and interest in
conservation activities by show-casing the cream of city’s built heritage and facilitate people’s
participation. The process also involved training programme for guides, physical restoration of
the walk area and publicity. The walk attracts thousands of native and foreign visitors.
Freedom Walk:
On 14 August 1997, a freedom walk, Krantidarshan Padyatra was organized around several
houses connected with the history of Indian freedom struggle. Twenty-eight important houses
were identified and the citizens under the leadership of elected and government officials visited
them. The birthday of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was celebrated on 23 January 1998 at
Bengal Home in Dhobi-ni-Pol, established in 1905 as a centre where revolutionaries from Bengal
trained local people during the freedom struggle.
Kavi Sammelan:
A kavi sammelan  (poets’ meet) was organized on Kavi Dalpatram’s death anniversary on 25
March 1998 in the Pol where he used to live. Organizations like the Gujarat Sahitya Parishad
also worked to make it a success. The enthusiastic response to the kavi sammelan resulted in a
unique memorial at the site of his house, designed with the help of the AMC in collaboration
with the Swami Narayan temple, Kalupur. The memorial serves as a site where plays, recitations
and other features linked with Dalpatram are enthusiastically performed.  Similarly a memorial
of poet-seer Akha Bhagat has been installed in front of his residence in Khadia with the financial
assistance received from a business house. The upgraded Chowk (square) with the memorial has
now become an attraction to the residents.
Street Signage Programme:
A street signage programme was launched where street plaques bearing the name of the area and
municipal symbols were displayed at the entrance of each Pol, providing recognition and
identity.
Revival of Panch System:
A project to revive old punch system (local self-governance) in the walled city with the help of
public participation was started in collaboration with the Ahmedabad Community Foundation
(ACF). The project aims at recognizing the panch, the key persons for information
dissemination, as formal representatives and thus helps improve living conditions in the Pol, thus
ensuring continuity of local self governing system.
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Organizing Street Plays:
Street plays with participation of the local community and eminent personalities from the area
were organized, bringing people together on a common platform to understand the issues related
to tangible and intangible heritage in the city.
Various efforts were also under taken to conserve the architectural heritage in the walled city
area through inter-departmental and public-private partnerships to carry out actual restoration
projects, which can serve as examples for people who want to restore their old properties and
structures.
The AMC in association with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) began a beautification
process focusing on the fort wall and city gates. While the ASI concentrates on physical
restoration, the AMC handles landscape and lighting around the gates. The AMC with the
assistance of the state government of Gujarat through the Archaeological Department provides a
50% grant for façade restoration for selected buildings. This programme includes citizen groups
and NGOs. The Kanubhai Dayabhai Mehta Chetna Pravruti Kendra serves as a training centre in
an old restored building in the walled city. Till now, 72 Conservation, Restoration Projects of
small and medium scale involving Monuments, Heritage structures, Residential & Institutional
Buildings have been completed and many others are in progress.
International Collaborations:
AMC-French Govt. Collaboration:
International agencies should be involved to share the experiences of various agencies working
in this field. This will give a wider perspective and awareness of the methods and approaches.
On 14th of January 2000, the AMC signed a MOU with the French Government for a scientific
study of the Walled City. This was initially for one year and was later extended. A French team
along with AMC staff worked jointly to achieve these goals. MOU was signed between
Government of France, AMC and Housing Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) for the
implementation of the programme for historic city conservation in Ahmedabad on 19th December
2001. On 18th of February 2003, an agreement between Government of France and Ahmedabad
Municipal Corporation was signed for the establishment of the Ahmedabad Heritage Centre.
Financial Agreement was signed for Historic City Conservation in Ahmedabad between
Government of France and HUDCO for providing subsidy in building repair loan on 16th June
2003.
The AMC-France collaboration has produced very valuable document titled Recommendations
for the Conservation and Revitalization of the Walled City of Ahmedabad.  Another significant
activity conducted under this collaboration is identification and tentative listing of more than
15000 heritage properties in the old city, out of which 500 are of exceptional value.
AMC-Dutch Govt. Collaboration:
Dutch had a small presence in Ahmedabad in earlier days in connection with trade & commerce.
A Dutch factory and graveyard still reminds their past presence in the city. Restoration and an
interpretation booklet exploring the related history in under way.
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The Dutch cemetery, on the east side of the Kankaria Lake is a a historic site. On the cemetery
are four types of tombs: domed tombs, pyramids, ‘walled’ tombs and plain gravestones. The
tombs were badly damaged by the earthquake of 2001. The Archaeological Department with the
support of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation restored them to original shape.
World Monument Fund listing:
Walled City of Ahmedabad was included in the list of endangered heritage sites by the World
Monument Fund during the year 1998-1999. This was used to intensify the conservation
activities in Walled City and generate international attention.
The 300-year-old Dwarkadheesh Temple in Boua ni Pol, partially destroyed in the earthquake of
2001 received the attention of the World Monument Watch to be listed in its most endangered
100 sites in the World in the year 2002. And the World Monument Fund has awarded a sum of
$32000 for the renovation of Dwarkadheesh Temple through the World Monument Fund Robert
Wilson Challenge Fund for restoration of the temple, the first phase of which has now been
completed.
HUDCO-AMC Collaboration:
Housing finance and building repair loan segment could play an important role. On 31st January
2000, HUDCO board has approved the heritage exploration with investment in the septennial of
a Heritage sector. On the 18th of April, on the occasion of World Heritage day a MOU was
signed between AMC and HUDCO for detailing the financial implication in this sector.
Involving of elected representatives:
This is an important factor for the success of any such activities as they have direct contact with
the citizens and can influence them. Their involvement must be assured at all stages.  In
Ahmedabad, this was ensured by constantly appraising them and inviting them for various
heritage, cultural functions.
Auto Rickshaw tour:
Auto Rickshaw drivers are being trained as guides and given identity cards, taking people for a
guided tour to the important pockets. Signage and description about these places and buildings
were made. Maps and Photographs of the places to be displayed in the Rickshaws. Use of
pollution free vehicles can promote environmental friendliness also. This initiative turned out to
be successful with the combined actions of AMC, Tourism Department and Auto Rickshaw
Association.
Chabutara (Bird Feeder) Restoration:
Chabutaras are one of the major elements in the walled city of Ahmedabad and they are under
destruction due to various reasons. They are being identified, restored and used properly. An
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initiative has already been taken by Jain Trust, citizen groups and AMC to comprehend the
situation.
Swatchatha Katha (cleanliness campaign using a traditional art form):
‘Katha’s is a traditional story telling art in the city. Such art forms can be used to send the
messages of cleanliness, conservation etc. to the common people. Local groups are required
identified and trained to present these are forms. This is under consideration of Gujarat Pollution
Control Board (GPCB), AMC and citizen groups.
Walled City News Paper:
The work for a newspaper exclusively discussing the issues in walled city is underway. Heritage
related issues will be focused for generating awareness and public opinion. Citizen groups plan
to promote this programme.
Heritage Products:
‘Pothi’ (traditional account book), miniature models of heritage artifacts, prints, table mats,
coasters, calendars and cushion covers depicting the artifact etc. being planned. Private agencies
can take initiative in this activity.
Children’s books on stories about the city:
Books depicting the history of the city are being published in simple language thus creating the
awareness among children. The first book showing the character of Manek Baba, a saint
character connected to Ahmedabad Foundation is under preparation for primary schools.
Coin museum:
A museum showcasing coins, old mint and the history of Ahmedabad Coinage is planned in
Tanksal-ni-pol where the old mint was situated.
Inner city map:
A detailed map of Ahmedabad is already published by SETU publishers. A Special tourist
edition highlighting the walled city area is being produced with AMC subsidy. AMC is planning
to publish a detailed map of Walled City of Ahmedabad marking all heritage monuments and
places.
Water Conservation:
There are a number of underground water tanks known as ‘Tanka’ in many of the old city houses
and this can be reused for rainwater harvesting and water conservation. Cleaning up of surface
drains, tanks and wells is to be taken up on war footing. This will be a relief for the acute water
shortage in the area. AMC and citizen groups have already started the identification process and
a base report with water quality analysis was  prepared and more than 15 ‘Tankas’ were restored
and rain water collection process re-initiated.
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Solid waste management:
Regular removal of solid waste from the streets and the neighborhoods is essential.  Kamdar
community, Cycle-Rikshaw-walas and others are to be mobilized to be involved in these
activities. Waste trolleys that can be easily handled need to be designed and provided.
Training administrators:
Heritage should be introduced in the administrative training courses as a specialization to
promote efficient heritage management. Sardar Patel Institute for Public Administration,
Ahmedabad had asked AMC to conduct Lectures and demonstration programmes on different
aspects of cultural heritage conservation and management. The AMC is collaborating in this
activity.
Notification of Heritage Regulations:
For protection and preservation of any heritage, either cultural or natural, legal frame work is the
foremost necessity. It is with the constant effort of the Heritage Department, AMC, a set of
heritage regulations for Ahmedabad has been framed and finally notified Under Urban
Development and Urban Housing Department, Government of Gujarat gazette in September,
2007. A Heritage Committee as provided in the gazette notification is being formed to carry out
the heritage initiatives more effectively.
Ahmedabad Heritage Festival:
In order to ensure community participation to raise the level of awareness and sense of belonging
about the heritage, festivals like World Heritage Day and World Heritage Week are being
celebrated every year by organizing cultural events, photo exhibitions, painting and essay
competitions, lecture series etc.
Walled City Disaster Risk Management Plan:
Built Heritage properties are very often subjected to damage and extinction. It is there of
paramount importance that disaster management plan should be an essential component for the
overall heritage management plan, not only for safeguarding cultural properties, but also for the
safety of the human lives. Recently the AMC is collaborating with the National Institute of
Disaster Management (NIDM), Govt. of India to study the vulnerability assessment for
formulating Risk Management Plan for the historic walled city of Ahmedabad.
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Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC)
Present Structure of Heritage Cell
Municipal Commissioner
Dy. Municipal Commissioner (Heritage)
Add. City Engineer                                         Heritage Advisor
(1)  Dy. City Engineer                   Project Co-Ordinator
(2)  Asst. City Engineer                Coordinator- Heritage Walk
(3)  Heritage Consultant                Assistant
(4)  Asst. Manager                         Draughtsman
(5)  Junior Legal Asst.             Volunteers
(6)  Draughtsman           Other NGOs
(7)  Sr. Clerk                                  Peon
(8)  Peon
Note:
1. Sr.No.3, 6, 7&8 are exclusively posted at Heritage cell, while others from the AMC side
share additional responsibilities of the Heritage Cell.
2. Heritage Advisor and the staff shown directly below him are from the part of CRUTA
Foundation  (N.G.O.)
Conclusion:
Apart from creating increased public awareness through a variety of educational programmes
about the heritage and ensuring their participation in preservation, revival efforts the Heritage
Cell, Ahmedabad has been undertaking a number of conservation, restoration projects
comprising various kinds of heritage structures such as Wooden Havelis, Pol Houses, City Gates,
Bird Feeders, Fortification Wall, Temple complexes and up gradation of ambiance of
monuments etc.
The citizens, Authorities, Medias, NGO’s and Everybody is supporting the cause of heritage
revival in Ahmedabad and the future of the past looks brighter than ever before.

Roll of Heritage Cells in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)

For Revival of Heritage Cities in India

NATIONAL WORKSHOP

ON

Cultural, Heritage and Religious Cities

Peer Experience And Reflective Learning (PEARL), JNNURM

2nd February, Madurai

By:

Shri Debashish Nayak

Advisor, Heritage Programme

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation

Sanskar Kendra–City Museum,

Opposite National institute of Design (NID),

Paldi, Ahmedabad – 380 006

Gujarat, India

Phone: + 91-79-2657 4335

+ 91-79-3298 4116

Mobile: +91 98240 32866

E-mail: debashishnayak@rediffmail.com

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Roll of Heritage Cells in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)

For Revival of Heritage Cities in India

Shri Debashish Nayak

Quality of the built environment of a place depends largely on its architectural and visual

features. It is often stated that one can judge our society by the degree to which it allows to

deteriorate   its quality. Therefore, it is utmost necessary to preserve them for posterity.

Most Indian cities with a long history have at their core areas of strong architectural and urban

character. These areas have been places of life, vitality, wealth, power, enlightenment and

culture. However these inner city areas have become marginalized in the process of urban

growth. This neglect has led to decay, depressed economic conditions and dilapidation leading to

migration of the population to newer areas

Old buildings and older areas of the city should be looked upon as assets rather than as liabilities

because they represent the history of communities, embodying their tradition, heritage and

culture through architecture and the urban form.

Experiences from all over the world has proved that revival and preservation of heritage and

modern development, if planned properly can fulfill the aspirations of the people, besides

bringing economic prosperity and sustainability.

However it is often noticed that in spite of having rich and diverse heritage resources, well

established public administrative set up and strong community network the historic urban

settlements in most of our cities are undergoing rapid decline due to pressures of urbanization

and various other factors such as:

1. Lack of proper policy

2. Lack of appropriate legal frame work

3. Lack of awareness and appreciation towards heritage properties

(General public- Administrators- political)

4. Lack of resources (Financial- Technical- skill)

It is a fact that so far only few thousands monuments of National importance are eligible for the

protection under the ASI (Govt. of India) and another few thousands under the state

governments, ensuring their preservation and care, while thousands of historic structures and

heritage areas are lying uncared.

The situation called for the finding alternative ways and means to develop mechanisms for the

revival and revitalization not only the built environment but also the cultural traditions and

intangible aspects of our old cities.

It is against this background and after undertaking a number of surveys, studies and initiatives

and learning experience the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) in collaboration with

CRUTA foundation, an N.G.O. has established the first Heritage Cell with in a ULB in the year

1996, which has now become a National Model for Heritage revival.

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Before we examine the Ahmedabad case let us look at few examples where similar initiatives

involving different partners were undertaken later by the other cities in the country.

Four different models emerged in various cities to understand the initiatives by involving

one or multiple partnership arrangement towards heritage revival are discussed below.

Model 1:- Rajasthan Government Public-Private peoples’ participation scheme for conservation

and development of cities having Heritage and Tourism importance.

A unique urban public-private peoples’ participation scheme was launched by the govt. of

Rajasthan for conservation and development of cities/towns having Heritage and Tourist

importance in the year 2004. The scheme proposed to cover the following cities/towns of

Rajasthan.

1. Ajmer, 2. Alwar, 3. Bharatpur, 4. Bikaner, 5.Banswara, 6.Bundi, 7.Chhabra, 8.Chittorgarh,

9.Deeg, 10.Dungarpur, 11. jaisalmer, 12.Jodhpur, 13.Jhalawar, 14.Kota, 15.Pushkar, 16.Sawai

Madhopur, 17.Udaipur, 18.Sikar, 19.Chomu, 20.Mandawa, 21.Nawalgarh, 22.Jhunjhunu,

23.Fatehpur

Under this scheme it was decided to establish a Heritage Cell in above said municipalities for

which a district level committee will be formed under the chairmanship of the Dist. Collector

with the following aims and objectives.

• Making history of the region enjoyable and relevant. Educating the public on the need for

protection and conservation of important sites.

• Developing sustainable programmes based on the history and tradition of the region for

the benefit of the local community without compromising the conservation needs of the

site. A step towards developing comprehensive master plans for heritage sites.

• Identification and development of Heritage Zones in smaller towns.

• The protection and conservation of the state’s natural and built heritage.

• To develop the tourism industry so as to make it instrumental in the state’s economic

growth.

•  To create awareness through publicity and educational programmes.

• To involve the community in tourism development and heritage management.

• Creates a sense of belonging and pride about heritage in the local population.

• Helps the local business and, most importantly. Craftsman to sell their good without

middleman.

• Highlighting areas of tourist and heritage importance. It was decided to take up 23 cities

for heritage conservation.

Towards conservation of Heritage properties in the above stated cities following

decisions were taken under this scheme.

• Total 23 cities of historical, heritage and tourist importance have been selected for

heritage conservation initiatives.

• A circular to this effect has been issued for selected urban local bodies of Rajasthan to

create a budget head for heritage component in the 2004-2005 budget of the local body.

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• There will be a formulation of a heritage cell in all the selected 23 cities. One engineer

from the local body and one town planner from the Town Planning Dept. will be deputed

to look after the works of the Heritage Cell.

• Listing of important monuments and buildings. Places of historic importance would be

taken up in consultation with INTACH.

• Under the chairmanship of District Collector, district level meetings of various

departments like, Department of Archeology, Town Planning, Tourism, Local Bodies,

etc. will be organized for better coordination and proper development of the town and

less duplication of the work in Heritage Sector.

• Help from Non-government Organizations working in the Heritage sector will also be

availed.

• Conservation regulation will be framed and provision in the model law will be

formulated.

• The Local Self Dept. shall be the nodal agency for the Heritage conservation projects.

Model 2:- Delhi Development Authority (DDA) / Mumbai Municipal Corporation   (MMC)

model.

In  both the above cases, the DDA as well as MMC looks after the Heritage Cell created

with in these ULBs under their direct control in the year…….( The aims and objectives

being almost as the same in other models and hence not been repeated here after)

Model 3:- Delhi Municipal Corporation (MCD) / Cochin Municipal Corporation (CMC)

The above stated municipal corporations have created Heritage Cell with in these ULBs

and then registered it as societies for better functional efficiency and autonomy.

Model 4:- Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) / Pondicherry Municipality

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) set up its Heritage Cell, the first of its kind in

India in collaboration with an N.G.O. – CRUTA (Foundation for Conservation and

Research of Urban Traditional Architecture) in 1996.

Pondicherry Municipality also in the same manner established a Heritage Cell in

partnership with INTACH (Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage) Having

briefly discussed four different models of Heritage Cells emerged in some of the

important cities of India, Let us examine the Ahmedabad Heritage initiatives, which falls

under Model- 4, in detail.

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Ahmedabad Heritage Initiatives:

Introduction:

Citizens get accustomed with their environment and gradually become less aware of it The City

becomes a habit. Herein lies the need to make the citizens aware of the importance of their built

environment and to help them develop a harmonious and contemporary relationship with it. In a

sense, urban renewal does not just rebuilding the city; it rebuilds people’s relationship with the

city. Educational and awareness programmes therefore are the most significant tool to achieve

continued relationship with the past.

Back ground:

Ahmedabad, a city with more than 600 years of continues history and culture was founded by

Sultan Ahmedshah-I on the ancient sites of Ashaval and Karnavati in the year 1411 (AD). The

city was taken over by the Mughals in 1574 followed by Marathas, and later administered by the

British from 1818, until 1947.

Ahmedabad is well known for its highly ornate historic mosques and tombs built in sand stone

and artistic Hindu and Jaina temples. The city which was known as “Manchester of the east” has

acquired its new found fame due to its association with India’s freedom movement and Mahatma

Gandhi. Ahmedabad now with an urban population of over 50 lakhs, is the 7th largest city of

India and is poised to acquire Mega City status.

The historic city wall of the 15th century (A.D.), 10 kms in circuit with 12 gates, enclosed an area

of 5.40 square kilometers, which is now hebetated by a population of over 4 lakhs. The walled

city is also the main business centre of Ahmedabad.

Ahmedabad’s built heritage is not limited to historic monuments. The carved wooden domestic

architecture in the poles of the old city is in no way artistically inferior to the historic stone

mosques or temples. The traditional houses of the rich in the poles, called Havelis display

fabulous wood work and sculpture (Pole is a traditional micro neighbourhood with cluster of

residential buildings protected by a gate, generally occupied by people belonging to a particular

caste, religion or profession). There are nearly 600 poles in the walled city.

Past Initiatives:

Inspite of having some steps taken as early as in 1885 by merchants and traders of Ahmedabad

for raising funds  “City Wall Restoration Fund”,  to be managed by a committee consisting of

government officials and citizens for restoring the city wall, there were no sustained effort to

preserve City’s heritage.

Factors affecting urban Decay:

The rapid industrialization, unplanned development and expansion saw the decay and

degeneration of the historic built heritage of the city. The historic fortification has been pulled

down to facilitate acess, the monuments are encroached upon, the Havelies and traditional

houses in the poles were neglected. People started migrating to newer areas of the city seeking

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modern settings and facilities, resulting neglect of their old dwellings back in the old city.

Basically all this happened due to lack of proper awareness, sense of belonging about the value

of the past creations. In some cases the old buildings were neglected for want of financial

recourses, while absence of technical support or proper craft persons were the reasons for

neglect.

Early Educational Initiatives:

Heritage educational programme, like any other similar programmes can be successful only

when the community comes forward to support and initiate related activities. This is possible

when the local people to whom the very heritage belongs understands its values, takes pride and

establish a sense of belonging.

Social and cultural festivals were used to generate awareness and mobilize communities.

Meetings, audio, visual shows, exhibitions, street plays, annual celebrations, cultural walks

books and publications are all of effective means of cultural education, and these means have

been engaged for the revival of city’s heritage from the beginning.

Involving children

One of the well known ways to make any programme successful and sustainable is to involve

young people particularly school children. “ Catch them young ” approach will be more

rewarding, as they grow up and become responsible citizens, not  only they will carry on the

cultural heritage initiatives, on their own, but also pass on the same tradition to the generation

next and then the process continue automatically.  This process can be termed as shaping of

attitudes.

Centre for Environment Education (CEE), Nehru Foundation for Development, Ahmedabad

conceived a programme called ‘Cultural Trails’, School Children were taken to the monuments

in the  walled city to understand history and cultural heritage of the city. The first was titled

Ahmedshahi, Trail – A Walk through Islamic monuments and the second was Haveli Trail – A

walk through old residential areas in poles. The programme evoked lots of interest amongst

school children and number of schools had participated in it.

The Role of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation:

Concerned with the rapid decline of cultural heritage resources, Ahmedabad Municipal

Corporation with the help of Ford Foundation, New Delhi undertook a study in 1985 to initiate

policies for the better preservation of heritage of Ahmedabad.

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) invited The Conservation and Research of Urban

Traditional Architecture (CRUTA) Foundation, Calcutta for helping it to take measures to arrest

decay and preserve the city’s heritage in 1996.

The AMC with the expert assistance from CRUTA had set up a Heritage Cell within the

Municipal Corporation in 1996 with the following aims and objectives:

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1. Create awareness among citizens and develop a comprehensive plan for the conservation of

the Walled City of Ahmedabad.

2. Enable communities to take pride in traditional built form, get involved in the process of its

revival.

Its objectives are to:

• Create awareness regarding heritage resources.

• Promote the traditional built forms.

• Support participatory action programme.

• Coordinate efforts of different disciplines, stake holders and authorities.

• Undertake tasks related to the promotion of traditional built forms, mobilizing finance

and resources that would not otherwise available to the area.

• Interface with concerned citizens public and private sectors.

Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation is the first local self-government body in India which

has taken the initiative to devise the Heritage Programme and implement a comprehensive

plan for the conservation and revitalization of the old city.

The idea behind establishing the Heritage Cell with in the Municipal Corporation was to educate

and create heritage awareness not only within the municipal system, but also amongst the local

communities at large.

The Heritage Cell, AMC took up the role of Catalyst, educator, facilitator and co-ordinator in

carrying out heritage programmes including strategic intervention with interested N.G.Os,

professional and voluntary agencies.

The heritage cell at AMC succeeded in introducing a bye-law in the General Development

Control Regulations prohibiting listed heritage property from being pulled down without prior

permission.  This eventually saved many structures in and around the walled city.

Community participation was recognized as a major method to convey the entire idea at a much

larger scale and ensure popular support. A series of activities were organized to elicit community

participation and ensure that people take pride in their surroundings and are involved in

conservation efforts. Meetings were held in the walled city ‘Khadia’ area to discuss strategies for

conservation and development of the area bringing together various citizens’ platforms.

Following this, citizen’s groups and the municipal authority jointly organized the first public

programme, ‘Preservation of the Past and Glimpses of History’ at Desai-ni-Pol in Khadia on 19th

November 1996. The residents of Desai-ni-Pol (its rebellious past during British rule gave it a

place in history), released a booklet to mark heritage day, listing the historical homes and

personalities who lived in the area as also a chronicle of important events.

Heritage Walk:

In order to propogate and popularize the city’s heritage the AMC in association with the CRUTA

Foundation launched a heritage walk through the historic core of the old city in 1997. The first

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such walk ever was started by the CRUTA Foundation in Calcutta in the year 1988. Now the

Ahmedabad Model of Cultural Heritage Walk has become a national model and many cities like

Jodhpur, Udaipur, Jaipur, Amritsar, Pondicherry, Cochin and Delhi etc. are replicating it.

The objective behind launching the walk was to initiate public awareness and interest in

conservation activities by show-casing the cream of city’s built heritage and facilitate people’s

participation. The process also involved training programme for guides, physical restoration of

the walk area and publicity. The walk attracts thousands of native and foreign visitors.

Freedom Walk:

On 14 August 1997, a freedom walk, Krantidarshan Padyatra was organized around several

houses connected with the history of Indian freedom struggle. Twenty-eight important houses

were identified and the citizens under the leadership of elected and government officials visited

them. The birthday of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose was celebrated on 23 January 1998 at

Bengal Home in Dhobi-ni-Pol, established in 1905 as a centre where revolutionaries from Bengal

trained local people during the freedom struggle.

Kavi Sammelan:

A kavi sammelan  (poets’ meet) was organized on Kavi Dalpatram’s death anniversary on 25

March 1998 in the Pol where he used to live. Organizations like the Gujarat Sahitya Parishad

also worked to make it a success. The enthusiastic response to the kavi sammelan resulted in a

unique memorial at the site of his house, designed with the help of the AMC in collaboration

with the Swami Narayan temple, Kalupur. The memorial serves as a site where plays, recitations

and other features linked with Dalpatram are enthusiastically performed.  Similarly a memorial

of poet-seer Akha Bhagat has been installed in front of his residence in Khadia with the financial

assistance received from a business house. The upgraded Chowk (square) with the memorial has

now become an attraction to the residents.

Street Signage Programme:

A street signage programme was launched where street plaques bearing the name of the area and

municipal symbols were displayed at the entrance of each Pol, providing recognition and

identity.

Revival of Panch System:

A project to revive old punch system (local self-governance) in the walled city with the help of

public participation was started in collaboration with the Ahmedabad Community Foundation

(ACF). The project aims at recognizing the panch, the key persons for information

dissemination, as formal representatives and thus helps improve living conditions in the Pol, thus

ensuring continuity of local self governing system.

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Organizing Street Plays:

Street plays with participation of the local community and eminent personalities from the area

were organized, bringing people together on a common platform to understand the issues related

to tangible and intangible heritage in the city.

Various efforts were also under taken to conserve the architectural heritage in the walled city

area through inter-departmental and public-private partnerships to carry out actual restoration

projects, which can serve as examples for people who want to restore their old properties and

structures.

The AMC in association with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) began a beautification

process focusing on the fort wall and city gates. While the ASI concentrates on physical

restoration, the AMC handles landscape and lighting around the gates. The AMC with the

assistance of the state government of Gujarat through the Archaeological Department provides a

50% grant for façade restoration for selected buildings. This programme includes citizen groups

and NGOs. The Kanubhai Dayabhai Mehta Chetna Pravruti Kendra serves as a training centre in

an old restored building in the walled city. Till now, 72 Conservation, Restoration Projects of

small and medium scale involving Monuments, Heritage structures, Residential & Institutional

Buildings have been completed and many others are in progress.

International Collaborations:

AMC-French Govt. Collaboration:

International agencies should be involved to share the experiences of various agencies working

in this field. This will give a wider perspective and awareness of the methods and approaches.

On 14th of January 2000, the AMC signed a MOU with the French Government for a scientific

study of the Walled City. This was initially for one year and was later extended. A French team

along with AMC staff worked jointly to achieve these goals. MOU was signed between

Government of France, AMC and Housing Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) for the

implementation of the programme for historic city conservation in Ahmedabad on 19th December

2001. On 18th of February 2003, an agreement between Government of France and Ahmedabad

Municipal Corporation was signed for the establishment of the Ahmedabad Heritage Centre.

Financial Agreement was signed for Historic City Conservation in Ahmedabad between

Government of France and HUDCO for providing subsidy in building repair loan on 16th June

2003.

The AMC-France collaboration has produced very valuable document titled Recommendations

for the Conservation and Revitalization of the Walled City of Ahmedabad.  Another significant

activity conducted under this collaboration is identification and tentative listing of more than

15000 heritage properties in the old city, out of which 500 are of exceptional value.

AMC-Dutch Govt. Collaboration:

Dutch had a small presence in Ahmedabad in earlier days in connection with trade & commerce.

A Dutch factory and graveyard still reminds their past presence in the city. Restoration and an

interpretation booklet exploring the related history in under way.

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The Dutch cemetery, on the east side of the Kankaria Lake is a a historic site. On the cemetery

are four types of tombs: domed tombs, pyramids, ‘walled’ tombs and plain gravestones. The

tombs were badly damaged by the earthquake of 2001. The Archaeological Department with the

support of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation restored them to original shape.

World Monument Fund listing:

Walled City of Ahmedabad was included in the list of endangered heritage sites by the World

Monument Fund during the year 1998-1999. This was used to intensify the conservation

activities in Walled City and generate international attention.

The 300-year-old Dwarkadheesh Temple in Boua ni Pol, partially destroyed in the earthquake of

2001 received the attention of the World Monument Watch to be listed in its most endangered

100 sites in the World in the year 2002. And the World Monument Fund has awarded a sum of

$32000 for the renovation of Dwarkadheesh Temple through the World Monument Fund Robert

Wilson Challenge Fund for restoration of the temple, the first phase of which has now been

completed.

HUDCO-AMC Collaboration:

Housing finance and building repair loan segment could play an important role. On 31st January

2000, HUDCO board has approved the heritage exploration with investment in the septennial of

a Heritage sector. On the 18th of April, on the occasion of World Heritage day a MOU was

signed between AMC and HUDCO for detailing the financial implication in this sector.

Involving of elected representatives:

This is an important factor for the success of any such activities as they have direct contact with

the citizens and can influence them. Their involvement must be assured at all stages.  In

Ahmedabad, this was ensured by constantly appraising them and inviting them for various

heritage, cultural functions.

Auto Rickshaw tour:

Auto Rickshaw drivers are being trained as guides and given identity cards, taking people for a

guided tour to the important pockets. Signage and description about these places and buildings

were made. Maps and Photographs of the places to be displayed in the Rickshaws. Use of

pollution free vehicles can promote environmental friendliness also. This initiative turned out to

be successful with the combined actions of AMC, Tourism Department and Auto Rickshaw

Association.

Chabutara (Bird Feeder) Restoration:

Chabutaras are one of the major elements in the walled city of Ahmedabad and they are under

destruction due to various reasons. They are being identified, restored and used properly. An

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initiative has already been taken by Jain Trust, citizen groups and AMC to comprehend the

situation.

Swatchatha Katha (cleanliness campaign using a traditional art form):

‘Katha’s is a traditional story telling art in the city. Such art forms can be used to send the

messages of cleanliness, conservation etc. to the common people. Local groups are required

identified and trained to present these are forms. This is under consideration of Gujarat Pollution

Control Board (GPCB), AMC and citizen groups.

Walled City News Paper:

The work for a newspaper exclusively discussing the issues in walled city is underway. Heritage

related issues will be focused for generating awareness and public opinion. Citizen groups plan

to promote this programme.

Heritage Products:

‘Pothi’ (traditional account book), miniature models of heritage artifacts, prints, table mats,

coasters, calendars and cushion covers depicting the artifact etc. being planned. Private agencies

can take initiative in this activity.

Children’s books on stories about the city:

Books depicting the history of the city are being published in simple language thus creating the

awareness among children. The first book showing the character of Manek Baba, a saint

character connected to Ahmedabad Foundation is under preparation for primary schools.

Coin museum:

A museum showcasing coins, old mint and the history of Ahmedabad Coinage is planned in

Tanksal-ni-pol where the old mint was situated.

Inner city map:

A detailed map of Ahmedabad is already published by SETU publishers. A Special tourist

edition highlighting the walled city area is being produced with AMC subsidy. AMC is planning

to publish a detailed map of Walled City of Ahmedabad marking all heritage monuments and

places.

Water Conservation:

There are a number of underground water tanks known as ‘Tanka’ in many of the old city houses

and this can be reused for rainwater harvesting and water conservation. Cleaning up of surface

drains, tanks and wells is to be taken up on war footing. This will be a relief for the acute water

shortage in the area. AMC and citizen groups have already started the identification process and

a base report with water quality analysis was  prepared and more than 15 ‘Tankas’ were restored

and rain water collection process re-initiated.

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Solid waste management:

Regular removal of solid waste from the streets and the neighborhoods is essential.  Kamdar

community, Cycle-Rikshaw-walas and others are to be mobilized to be involved in these

activities. Waste trolleys that can be easily handled need to be designed and provided.

Training administrators:

Heritage should be introduced in the administrative training courses as a specialization to

promote efficient heritage management. Sardar Patel Institute for Public Administration,

Ahmedabad had asked AMC to conduct Lectures and demonstration programmes on different

aspects of cultural heritage conservation and management. The AMC is collaborating in this

activity.

Notification of Heritage Regulations:

For protection and preservation of any heritage, either cultural or natural, legal frame work is the

foremost necessity. It is with the constant effort of the Heritage Department, AMC, a set of

heritage regulations for Ahmedabad has been framed and finally notified Under Urban

Development and Urban Housing Department, Government of Gujarat gazette in September,

2007. A Heritage Committee as provided in the gazette notification is being formed to carry out

the heritage initiatives more effectively.

Ahmedabad Heritage Festival:

In order to ensure community participation to raise the level of awareness and sense of belonging

about the heritage, festivals like World Heritage Day and World Heritage Week are being

celebrated every year by organizing cultural events, photo exhibitions, painting and essay

competitions, lecture series etc.

Walled City Disaster Risk Management Plan:

Built Heritage properties are very often subjected to damage and extinction. It is there of

paramount importance that disaster management plan should be an essential component for the

overall heritage management plan, not only for safeguarding cultural properties, but also for the

safety of the human lives. Recently the AMC is collaborating with the National Institute of

Disaster Management (NIDM), Govt. of India to study the vulnerability assessment for

formulating Risk Management Plan for the historic walled city of Ahmedabad.

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Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC)

Present Structure of Heritage Cell

Municipal Commissioner

Dy. Municipal Commissioner (Heritage)

Add. City Engineer                                         Heritage Advisor

(1)  Dy. City Engineer                   Project Co-Ordinator

(2)  Asst. City Engineer                Coordinator- Heritage Walk

(3)  Heritage Consultant                Assistant

(4)  Asst. Manager                         Draughtsman

(5)  Junior Legal Asst.             Volunteers

(6)  Draughtsman           Other NGOs

(7)  Sr. Clerk                                  Peon

(8)  Peon

Note:

1. Sr.No.3, 6, 7&8 are exclusively posted at Heritage cell, while others from the AMC side

share additional responsibilities of the Heritage Cell.

2. Heritage Advisor and the staff shown directly below him are from the part of CRUTA

Foundation  (N.G.O.)

Conclusion:

Apart from creating increased public awareness through a variety of educational programmes

about the heritage and ensuring their participation in preservation, revival efforts the Heritage

Cell, Ahmedabad has been undertaking a number of conservation, restoration projects

comprising various kinds of heritage structures such as Wooden Havelis, Pol Houses, City Gates,

Bird Feeders, Fortification Wall, Temple complexes and up gradation of ambiance of

monuments etc.

The citizens, Authorities, Medias, NGO’s and Everybody is supporting the cause of heritage

revival in Ahmedabad and the future of the past looks brighter than ever before.

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