REVITALIZATION STRATEGIES FOR HISTORIC CORE OF ALAPPUZHA

Abstract

Historic urban areas showcase the origin and phases of development of the city. Many cities in India contain historic and culturally significant areas whose heritage conservation needs to be integrated with the development schemes. Urban development of historic areas, with a focus on heritage conservation has been attempted in many cities in the recent past. This research explores the strategies for revitalization of historic urban areas in the context of rapid urbanization. Alappuzha has been a port town with great potential for trade, commerce, and other economic sectors for a long time. However, it is rapidly losing its heritage resources and reputation due to neglect, outdated laws, and ineffective management. Successive development schemes of Alappuzha had included revitalization initiatives considering its built and natural heritage, but their implementation was largely unsuccessful. This thesis focuses on the development of a framework for the revitalization of historic areas of Alappuzha. Planning interventions of heritage cities were studied to explore the appropriate planning tools for revitalization. The conservation of historic areas of Alappuzha was examined considering its city planning and architecture. To analyze the existing situation in the historic area, a primary survey was conducted among households, commercial establishments, and tourists. Finally, a strategy that integrates conservation of historic areas with the urban agenda is proposed for Alappuzha. This framework for inclusive revitalization is aimed to restore the lost glory of historic areas and for the sustainable development of Alappuzha.