Anirban Bhattacharya
Landscape architect CEPT University
Address:
Anirban Bhattacharya
B3 - G4, Durgapur Residency, J K Paul Lane Extn., Benachity, Durgapur, West Bengal-713213 Contact number: +919429368177 e-mail: ar.anirban.bhattacharya@gmail.com Languages: English, Hindi, Bengali Date of birth: 28th of March, 1990 Reference contact: Prof. Deepa Maheshwari (HOD, Master’s in landscape, CEPT University e-mail:deepa.maheshwari@cept.ac.in)
ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
WORKSHOPS AND RESEARCH PAPERS
Aug 2008 - May 2013 : Bachelor’s in architecture with distinction July 2014 - Jun 2016 : Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University. Katra,J&K Major subjects - Architectural design, Building materials & construction, Architectural graphics, History of architecture, Structures, Urban design studio, Basic landscape design studio, Building services, construction worshops. Dissertation Design thesis-School for the visually impaired, Dwarka, New delhi Guided by - Prof. Anoop Sharma July 2014 - Jun 2016 :
Master’s in landscape with first class CEPT Universty, Ahmedabad Major subjects - Landscape design studios, Regional landscape study, Theory of landscape architecture,Planting design,Geology,Hydrology, Lighting, Ecology, Landscape engineering, Landscape planning,Field study of plants. Dissertation In search of a safe home - a case of Majhigaun in the earthquake affected Sindhupalchowk district, Nepal - project for the UNDP.
The informality of the formal gardensFrench Gardens-a critique. The boundless gardens-Romanticism of the english gardens. The paradise gardens of the mughalMughal Gardens. The infinite, divine gardens of Vaux le Vicomte, France--a critical analysis. Landscape assessment and regional studies of Gangtok region in Sikkim- featured in CEPT portfolio. Seminars Threats to the Sunderban mangrove wetland ecosystem in Bangladesh from the diversion of water of the Ganges -- as a consequence of the Farakka Dam. Neonicotinoids are the new DDT killing the natural world-How pesticides are infecting the ecosystem.
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS/PARTICIPATIONS
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Aug 2008 - May 2013 : Secured 1st position in fourth year(eighth sem) May 2013 - July 2013 : Worked as a freelance architect working on in college. private residences and low-rise apartments. Participated in Transparence,2012 and won the zonal Jury Commendation award.
July 2013 - May 2014 : Worked with SA design studio in Kolkata, on various medium to large scale projects - designing, making working drawings and Secured AIR104 in GATE 2013. execution, working on estimation, BOQ’s, area sheets, sanction drawings, detailings. Won first prizes in intra-college debate and Was in charge of a high-rise, multi-tower essay writing competition. residential cum commercial project coming up in the south of Kolkata city. July 2014 - Jun 2016 : Secured highest marks in second semester landscape design studio. Aug 2011 - Nov 2011 : Worked as a trainee at M/s Prabhakar B. Bhagwat, which is one of the leading landscape Studio works displayed in semester end design firms in India. This came as a big inspiration exhibition at CEPT - 1st and 2nd sem. to enter the field of landscape architecture. Worked on making presentation drawings, Received CEPT trust scholarship in 2nd year. working drawings, physical & computer models, and for competitions. Selected for and funded by the United Nations Developement Programme(UNDP) Aug 2016 - Dec 2017 : Worked as a junior landscape architect at INI for doing a research thesis for The redesign studio(formerly Burthill-Stantec- a clustering of earthquake affected settlements multi-national design firm).Work included in Sindhupalchowk district, Nepal. making concept level presentations, presentation drawings, detail drawings, BOQ’s, co-ordinating with the client, client meetings, site visits, etc. TECHNICAL / PHYSICAL SKILLS It was on a contract period of Aug to Dec. Softwares : Autocad Sketchup Singing INTERESTS Indesign Poetry and creative content writing Photoshop Travelling - knowing about different cultures and MS Office languages Physical : Perspective sketching Graphic design and poster making Water colour rendering Trekking, swimming and water sports Hand drafting Badminton.
About me As I started studying architecture, I slowly realised that architecture is not only about aesthetics. Beauty is relative - and if a design fails to address, what the users had intended it to do - it ceases to be beautiful slowly and slowly - until it is only a relic of its mis-appropriateness. It also dawned on me that a good design - is distinguished from a moderate design - by its ability to raise questions. A well thought design tries to address problems, which are not apparent at first glance. It goes deep into the context - to clarify what is the root issue - and starts a positive set of chain reactions - which caters to both the present and the future. As I completed my bachelor’s in architecture, I became increasingly curious about the relation of the built form to the bigger environment - that envelopes it. As an architect, we are always taught to look at the context while designing a building - but sparsely do we think about - where, all the elements that make up a building come from; and where does the waste that we generate disappear. Does it really disappear? It set me thinking deeply. The study of the landscape around me, the potential it has - and the miraculous ways in which it can touch our lives - struck me interestingly, while working in Ar. Aniket Bhagwat’s office. I slowly started becoming aware - that the only way to solve any problem completely, is to take care of the whole closed loops in which we operate in nature. Sustainability is not a fashionable option here - it is a necessity, otherwise the garden and the farm will perish - and so shall we! CEPT helped me understand this complexity in detail and it has been an enthralling experience. In the two years at CEPT, I learned that with deep-rooted research and awareness, we can get closer to design solutions, which have a greater chance of success. I wish to take this journey forward and I believe that your esteemed organisation, is an appropriate place for continuing my career and increasing my understanding. I am confident, with all the years I have spent - observing, studying, researching, working and contemplating my passion - that I would be able to contribute something meaningful to your firm. I look forward to a pleasurable experience.
C O N T E N T S
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Land-Water-Flora-Fauna Interactions
LM Pharmacy college,Ahm Representation in lines
Jadh-the roots that bind Seen-Unseen landscape competition
Re-interpreting the market The artist and the architect Muncipal Market, Ahmedabad
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Ugati complex, Gandhinagar Contemporary urban landscape design
The puja room courtyard Designing a residential backyard
Regional landscape study Gangtok watershed region, Sikkim
Thol bird sanctuary,Ahmedabad Mapping a wetland
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M/s Prabhakar B Bhagwat Professional work Internship
Courtyard Mariott, Bangalore Professional work INI Design Studio(Burthill-Stantec)
Hillcrest, Hyderabad Professional work INI Design Studio(Burthill-Stantec)
Belani Housing, Rajarhat Professional work SA design studio
Interactions
Land
Water
Flora
Fauna
In the monsoons, the ground becomes an ever changing canvas with varying colours, textures and impressions. This is an attempt to capture this ephemeral phenomenon.....to see if it can serve as inspiration for design.
The story of mother earth That melodic and heart-filling Earthy odour ---the ground starts receiving the refreshing drops, As if the water’s gonna nourish it to life; We wait for new life, but begginings there are none---
RAINDROPS ON GROUND
The water runs down its bosom Pulling away whatever it can--All the debris amd mud--Leaving behind the frail, wrinkled earth. Its tears form puddles on its cheek And slowly disappears as the sun comes. New life appears, Green and refreshed And the Mother comes back to life--Her children meaning the world to her! Yet the angry father doesn’t stop at that--His might and ---Oh! The timid earth. The children are just memories now--Breaks the heart of Mother Earth. LITTER ON GROUND
FLOW OF WATER TRAILS FORMED
FROTH ON COLLECTED WATER - PUDDLES
SUBSEQUENT CRACKSFOOTPRINTS
HEAVY CRACKS AS SOIL DRIES EVEN MORE
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Representation in lines
L M Pharmacy College Ahmedabad
The idea was to represent the a space through lines, interpret it’s character and propose an intervention to enhance the experience of it. Spatial expressions :
Shaded Mysterious Horizontal Divided Forest-like With a lot of birds and insects, this seemingly dead
space comes alive in the early mornings and late evenings, with the cries and whistles of various creatures giving the space the feel of a forest.
The design intervention focuses on giving a
first hand experience of the untamed natural forest like space in the site by winding walkways through it. The birds nest-like enclosure attracts the visitor and cuddles him into the cosy space. It is also symbolic of the avifauna present at the site and thereby attracts the attention of the visitor towards the birds. The water provides a reflecting surface and cooling medium for the sit out.
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Landscape competeition - Seen Unseen
Jadh-the roots that bind The banyan tree has occupied a very central
importance in Indian culture and mythology. A banyan is never cut down, a banyan is always revered, a banyan is always worshipped; -----these special attributes that we have associated over the years with the tree ,evokes some very special feelings in our minds.......we have tried to explore those very special feelings...... those that we are forgetting to cherish.
O great Banyan,
---the preserver of secrets You have seen many a centuries fold The floods and famines , and vagaries untold, You have witnessed the song of the bard, The blooming flowers underneath , and the squirrels squirk-------------You have seen my father grow Climbing your shoulders to escape being scold! You forgave them all, your fingers caressed the earth Your soft touch eased its brow! Many a lovers promises Many a friends wishes ----You overheard and never betrayed . Your might belittles us, Thy secrets make us wonder---------What makes you immortal ? What did you drink? So humble , you never look up So old, but you never heave---I have seen the birds of heaven Come to rest on thee Your blood red berries they feed And bid goodbye -------------always to come back for peace.
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The artist and the architect-Municipal Market,Ahmedabad
Re-interpreting the Market The
studio aimed at upgrading a derelict commercial space in the combined philosophies of two professionals : an architect - Vladimir Tom Sitta and an artist- Richard Serra. The chosen site is the old Municipal Market in Ahmedabad. This used to be the heart of the bustling commercial zone of the city.... but throughout the years, has turned into an under used parking lot.....with most of the shops closed down due to lack of profitability and footfall. However the site has great potential to be developed as it has a prime location and is still a preferred eating-zone for many. The design tries to incorporate the vibrance and energy in Sitta’s work with the sense of calm repose through anticipation in Serra’s art. It strives to rewire the lost connections .....and create an engaging, interactive yet mysterious experience for the visitors.
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Contemporary urban landscape design
Ugati Complex,Gandhinagar Ugati complex is situated on the way to Gandhinagar, alongside the highway. The site is buffered from the highway by a 30m wide plantation ,typical of Gandhinagar and so is not directly viewed from the highway. It is however a corner plot and so the first views to the site start from the corner, and is also accessed from two sides. The building is a commercial tower, about 25 mts high, accommodating retail on the first 4 floors and offices on the other four.
The design intent The building had already been made when I visited the site. It had a very distinct and bold yet swanky language. Tall, thin fins rose to the air all along the outer facade, almost slicing it into thin rectilinear pieces. The landscape idea took off from this. It was conceived as lines which were pulled down from the building fins, to the edge of the site----clawing at the ground in the process. These claw marks went onto to become mounds, pathways, water features, floorscapes and guides--- which pulled the visitor into the heart of the site.
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CONCEPT-
THE FLOW
EYE LEVEL LANDSCAPE
- Is comfortable to look at, so gives a sense of repose The mounds serve as a guidance to movement
THE ENTRY MOUND IS HIGH - Screening vision, hiding the view behind - It is suddenly revealed as a surprise IMRESSION OF THE SITE The over powering sense of the building is preserved with a relatively flattish site. The sense of awe attracts people to the top of the building. 10
E VOLUTION OF DESIGN STAGE 2 : Mounds and floorscapes guide movement, skylights are incorporated
STAGE 1 : The fins of the building flow down into the site thus forming the intial graphics
STAGE 4 : Mounds start taking final shape,water body and central pit defined, skylights fixed
STAGE 3 : Mounds flow into the podium, become more defined, parking at front of site
STAGE 5 : Mounds contract back from the road edge, shaded seating with water feature created
P L AN
AREA STATEMENT Total no of people expected: 1600 People expected/hour(evening): 60-300 Total parking required: 107 Surface parking required(20%): 21 cars Two wheeler parking required : 60 DESIGN INTENT --To draw down the lines of the building fins, to form the landscape --To integrate the podium and the frontage --To design a flow of visual lines and movement which guides people into the site --To provide for ample seating --The contrasts with material and colour is intended --To keep the landscape relatively flat, so that the building is emphasised, and the sense of awe draws people to the top
SECTION AA’
SECTION BB’ 11
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WORKING DRAWINGS
B' B'
T3
T3
T3
T3
T3
T3
T4
T4
E
T4 E +0.6 M. LVL
±0 M.LVL
E' DN
D
+0.6 M. LVL
DN
E'
T4
D
+0.6 M. LVL
F
F' DN
+0.6 M. LVL
+1.2 M. LVL
S4
G2
S1
G2
+1.25 M. LVL
+1.65 M. LVL
G2
+1.5 M. LVL
G2-Grass - Lawn G2 T(1/2/etc.) - Trees +1.25 M. LVL S(1/2/etc.) G1-Mexican - Shrubs grass G(1/2/etc.) - Groundcover T1 G2-Grass - Lawn SYMBOL NAME T(1/2/etc.) AREA/NO. - Trees S(1/2/etc.) - Shrubs T1-Cassia renigera T1 3 G(1/2/etc.) - Groundcover T2-Millingtonia hortensisT1 T2 9 T3-Peltophorum pterocarpum T3 9 SYMBOL NAME foetida AREA/NO. T4-Sterculia T4 5 T5-Plumeria renigera T5 T1 3 3 T1-Cassiarubra scopariahortensis S1 T2 60@0.45M9 c/c S1-Kochia T2-Millingtonia S2-Acalypha wilkesiana S2 T3 25@1M 9c/c T3-Peltophorum pterocarpum + white mix S3 T4 125@0.6M5 c/c S3-Pennisetum-red T4-Sterculia foetida S4 T5 225@0.45Mc/c S4-Cosmos sulphureus T5-Plumeria rubra & 3 mexicana-MIXED S1-Kochia scoparia 60@0.45M c/cArgemone S1 G1 S2 6025 SQM. Mexican grass wilkesiana @1M c/c G1-S2-Acalypha G2 S3 504 dactylon(lawn) S3-Pennisetum-red + white mix 125SQM. @0.6M c/cG2-Cynodon S4 225@0.45Mc/c S4-Cosmos sulphureus & Argemone mexicana-MIXED 60 SQM. G1 G1- Mexican grass G2 504 SQM. G2-Cynodon dactylon(lawn)
+1.65 M. LVL
G2 ±0 M. LVL
+1.9 M. LVL
B'
+1.2 M. LVL
T2
S3
+0.75 M. LVL
±0 M. LVL
B'
+0.75 M. LVL
S1
A'
S2
G2
+1.9 M. LVL
A' T2
S3
+0.75 M. LVL +1.2 M. LVL
FOUNTAIN
PLANTING PLAN
G2
+0.15 M. LVL
FOUNTAIN
+1.25 M. LVL
A G1-Mexican grass
S2 G2
±0 M. LVL
+1.5 M. LVL
T2
+0.75 M. LVL
+0.15 M. LVL
PEBBLE COURT
+1.25 M. LVL
±0 M. LVL
S4
A
DN +0.3 M. LVL
+1.2 M. LVL
C'
C
F'
DN
±0 MTS LVL
F
T4
DN
D'
+0.3 M. LVL
C'
C
DN
D'
±0 MTS LVL
DN
G1
T2
PART LINE OUT PLAN
T2 G1 PEBBLE COURT
±0 M.LVL
T4
0.15 MTS LVL
T5
T2
T1
T2
T3
T4
T5
G1
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
G2
0.15 MTS LVL
T5
PLANTING LIST
SECTION AA’
SECTION BB’
SECTION FF’
SECTION EE’
SECTION CC’
SECTION DD’
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Designing a residential backyard
The Puja room courtyard The residence is owned by a traditional bengali family, who live on the outskirts of Kolkata, with their parents. These people, have stayed all around India for most of their lives and have come back to stay where they belong. They want their residence to be very rooted to the culture and style of the place.
The court designed is the puja court.
It is a very sacred and intimate court used mostly by the mother of the house. The tulsi podium is accessed by descending down a flight of steps into the water. The feeling is as if one is immersed in water, like a holy dip in the Ganga. The landscape at the residence is not only about connecting to nature, but probably for people who work in the city, live out of the city, earn from the city, and also visit the city seeking entertainment---its more about dis-connecting from the city . Its about getting lost in, its about hiding away. Its about finding sacred spaces in the lap of untouched nature, as a respite from the profainity that surrounds us.
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Gangtok watershed region, Sikkim
Regional landscape study The aim is to study, understand and analyse the Gangtok region and
look into issues pertatining to the region and address it through appropriate solutions. • To study natural resources of the Gangtok region. • To assess the landscape character of Gangtok region. • To understand culture and lifestyle of people of sikkim. • To identify critical areas of the region. • To evaluate ecological values and strengthen the same for sustainable development of the region.
It is a study of the Gangtok region with respect to - history, climate, topography, hydrology, geology, soil, flora, fauna, land use, analysing and drawing inferences by overlaying layers and providing proposals and guidelines to address the issues identified. Sikkim is one of the most bio-diverse and ecologically fragile states of India. Also it attracts a lot of tourists due to its beautiful mountains, enchanting forests and comforting climate. Tourism is the biggest revenue generating sector and employs most of the population directly or indirectly. However the enormus pressure of expansion due to this is putting heavy stress on the sensitive balance of this hill state. This study is an effort to understand all the factors and to look for ways in which to carry all this forward, while ensuring that there is minimun impact on the environment.
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Introduction, history and evolution Sikkim is a landlocked state in the northeastern region of India. It is the the least populous state of the country.The geography of Sikkim is diverse owing to its location in Himalayan mountain regions. It is one of the prosperous states of India owing to its political stability and economic growth.The state of Sikkim has rich cultural heritage which reflects in its traditions and customs.
Map showing study region in India and in Sikkim state
1840-1940
1941-1975
1976-2000
2000-2015
The ancient Silk route passed through Sikkim
Festivals of Sikkim
Climate Sikkim has its own climatic peculiarities caused by its geographical location, relief and altitudinal variation. As such, temperature conditions vary from sub-tropical in the southern lower parts to that of cold deserts. It is the most humid place in the whole of the Himalayan range because of its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and exposure to the effects of the moisture laden southwest monsoon. The KÜppen-Geiger climate classification is Cwb. Subtropical highland oceanic climate.(Winters are dry and summers very rainy. In the tropics the rainy season is provoked by the tropical air masses and the dry winters by subtropical high pressure. Temperate temperatures are the consequence of altitude which become cooler year-round.) The summers are much rainier than the winters in Gangtok. The temperature here averages 16.5 °C. Precipitation here averages 2578 mm.
The study region is part of east Sikkim district
Moisture content map
Rainfall distribution
Humidity
Human activities like agriculture, production factories, burning of fossil fuels for transportation, deforestation, urban development are changing the micro climate that in turn is changing the climate.
World map of Koppen Geiger classification
Snow depth map 17
Elevation map showing topography The lowest elevation in the watershed region is 300m above sea level and the highest is 4350m above sea level. The city of Gangtok lies at an elevation of 1650m above sea level. The lowest elevation is in the south-west region of the watershed and the highest elevation in the north-eastern most region of the watershed. The permanent snow line in Himalayas lies at an elevation of 5700m, which is not included in the watershed area of the study.
Aspect map Aspect - the direction towards which a slope faces. Exposure - the relation of a site to weather conditions, especially sun and wind. Both determine the amount of insolation received by a hill slope. In Nepal, southern slope is warmer than the northern slopes and consequently temperature differs. We can see different species on different aspect of a hill. Similarly, different aspects receive insolation differently. The eastern slope is exposed to the sun in the earlier part of the day and so dew is seen. In the morning, soil moisture has not melted resulting in seedlings being killed. Whereas, the western aspect has desiccating effect due to noon’s sun Vegetation also depends on the aspect of the place, in northern hemispheres the north slopes are colder and more moist, whereas the southern slopes are brighter and receive more sun.
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Slope map High altitude, folded structure, local disturbances alongwith the sculpturing effects of glaciofluvial and fluvial processes are the determinant factors in the development of higher degrees of slope in Rani Khola watershed. The slope class(slope in degree) ranges from strongly sloping (1015 degree) to very steep (3640 degree). Steep slope (26-30 degree) is dominant which coveres 109.7 ha (43.2%) area in Rani Khola Watershed.
Comparative analysis between each slope % category range. • 75% of the area has slopes ranging from steep slopes to escarpments. • It is very difficult to establish vegetation on such steep slopes; conservation of existing vegetation on these slopes is critical to control soil erosion. • Recharge is extremely difficult due to high runoff as area under 25% slope is considerably less in the valley regions.
Relative area of each slope % category range
Geology map
Water recharge potential
Recharge potential was an outcome of overlaying of slope map, soil map, springs map, geology map and land-use map. One of the prime factors considered while developing the recharge potential map was based on dips and strikes in the catchment areas. Even though some areas have high recharge potential and can be considered as a source, the presence of fractures in the rock strata leads to eruption of water on lower levels, making them springs and thus forming jhoras in the region. Another factor that was considered was the amount of rainfall in the region. Very steep slopes, despite vegetation cover and deep soil have not be considered for good recharge potential. Sikkim region geology is an archean geology which the youngerst in age.The Sikkim-Daijeeling geological complex has a more or less persistent lateral extent, with Himalaya occasional pinching and local truncation, due to Sedimentary facies change and tectonic overlaps respectively. The slope of the region is one the major
reason for landslides. The steepness of the slope is the indicator for the landslide prone areas. Steep slopes with weathered loose standing material is most prone. Structures not be built in the direction on the dip as it has the susceptibility for rock slipping in that same direction on the events of earthquake and landslide. 19
Soil map Soils of Rani Khola watershed have been mapped in to 31 soil mapping units at the level of soil series associations. They occurres predominantly on slide slope of mountains.
Soil Depth: Eight soil depth classes have been identified and mapped in Rani Khola watershed as the association of soil depth classes, ranging from very shallow to deep • Deep- moderately deep class covers area of 11,990 ha (47.3%) • Moderately deep-deep covered an area of 4,080ha (13%) • Moderately shallow -deep 3,302ha (13%) • Deep-Moderately shallow 3,074ha (12.1%)
Soil suitability for Rice Rani Khola soils are found to be moderately to marginally suitable in 5,132 ha areas and marginally to moderately suitable in 1,973 ha. It is found to be mostly unsuitable or in association of unsuitable and marginally suitable in rocky cliff, escarpment, landslide zone, mid. mountain to high mountain with higher slope.
Soil suitability for Maize Rani Khola soils are moderately suitable in 15,859 ha areas and moderately to marginally suitable in 2,355 ha, marginally to moderately suitable in 2,193 ha and only marginally suitable in 1,785 ha. It is almost unsuitable in few areas due to very severe to severe limitations of topography and soil.
Hydrology map
Springs and springsheds
Springs are points in which groundwater comes into contact with the surface. Springs are common in the lesser Himalayan region due to the steep terrain. Springs can be perennial or seasonal.There are several different types of springs that occur in different geologic situations.
Rani Khola is 36 km long and in its initial stretch it flows as Rora Chhu. It is bounded by the Dik Chhu watershed in the north, Rangpo Chhu watershed in its south and southeast and Teesta (lower part) watershed in the west. Flash flood hazard risk and vulnerability map, 4.08% of the area fell in very high risk zone with 5.43% of the total settlement to be affected. •Urbanisation has affected the watershed. The removal of vegetation has made the soil looser which leads to landslides. It has increased by 30%.
•Taping water for upstream settlements is not feasible as it is against gravity. Hence the “jhorras” are tapped. •There is a pressing need to increase the transport of water to various water deficient areas.
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Landuse map
Erosion suseptibility map
The watershed was characterized by different landforms viz. ridge, rocky cliff, side slopes at different elevations and were subjected to soil erosion mainly caused by intensive rain. About 15747.6 ha (62.1%) area was subjected to only moderate erosion alone. Moderate - severe (M-S) erosion class association counted for 23.6% area of the watershed. In spite of steepness of slope and high intensity of rain, erosion of hill to some extent was checked by thick vegetative covers.
Forests constitute a major part of the water shed and plays a very mportant role in maintaining the ecological balance of th region.This is one of the most disturbed atershed in the Sikkim region. 19.3% area is under habitation/cultivation. Forests are either found in the upper catchment or inthe vicinity of the Rumtek monastery and cover about 49% of the total area. Scrub landuse constitutes about 23.3 % of the watershed.
Flora-types of forests
Fauna map
Altitudinal variation from sea level to summits that touch the skies, the fauna naturally covers a wide spectrum-Tropical to Alpines. Sikkim’s botanical and zoological richness is awe-inspiring, boasting of more than 4000 species of plants and 30% of all the birds found in the Indian sub-continent. This is complemented by the presence of red listed species like Snow Leopard, Red Panda, and Musk deer. The other important species present are Common Leopard, JungleCats, Asiatic Black Bear, Clouded Leopard and Blue Sheeps. Sal Dry forest/Sal Wet Forest100m-1100m Types of Forests a.Sal Dry forest/Sal Wet Forest-100m-1100m Gauga pinnata, Schima wallichi, Albizia lebbek, Terminalia crenulata, Terminalia chebula b.Chir Forest c. Dry mixed Forest-1100m-1700m Castanopis tribuloides, Dendrocalamus sikkimense, Schima wallichi, Betula cylindrostachya, Toona ciliate
d. Eastern Oak Forest-1700m -2800m Quercus, Castanopsis tribuloides, Symplocos theilfolia, Rubia tinctorum e. Eastern Mixed Conifer f. Secondary Temperate Scrub- 2500m-3000m Quercus, Prunus symplocos, Viburnum plicatum, Maesa, Celastrus scandens, Stephania cephalantha g. Rhododendron Scrub- 3000-4000m
Dry mixed Forest1100m-1700m
Eastern Oak Forest1700m -2800m
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Hypothesis-proposals What one can infer after the study of Gangtok region is that there are several issues but mainly pertaining to tourism and urbanisation. There is a lot of pressure on existing natural resources of Gangtok as its the only developed city in the region with proper infrastructure. And therefore there is a strong pull towards it, with lot of rural population migrating in scearch of jobs. Tourism is now one of the largest industries in the world that has developed alongside the fascinating concept of eco tourism. In fact the system of tourism involves a combination of travel, destination and marketing, which leads to a process of its cultural dimension. Gangtok as a core centre of Sikkim has potential command over different tourist spots in East Sikkim, which are directly linked by network of roads catering Gangtok and are perfectly accessible for oneday trips. The tourist attractions of East Sikkim are clustered mostly in and around Gangtok, the state capital.
De-centralisation of tourism The tourism infrastructure as well as seasonal arrival of tourists in Gangtok city and to develop the probabilistic travel model on the basis of tourist perception which will help the tourism department for the further economic developement of the area. Lower altitudes provide scopes for tourist inflows in the colder off season when Gangtok is too cold for comfort of the visitors.
Types of tourism
IIIIIAdventure tourism
Paragliding, river rafting, rafting, kayaking, trekking
IIIIIAgri-tourism
Farmlands, home-stays, experiential routes, market, animal husbandry, test fields
IIIIICultural tourism
Specific local community, community centre, shops
IIIIIEco tourism
Diverse flora fauna, camping sites, view points
IIIIIHoneymoon tourism
For newly-weds-exotic scenic beauty, seclusion, intimacy
IIIIIPilgrimage tourism
Pilgrimage spots, market, related infastructure After analysis of the critical layers it is understood that there are portions in the lower elevations where future developement is possible and these may help in allevating stress on Gangtok
Developement of Rural tourism It focuses on actively participating in a rural lifestyle. It can be a variant of eco-tourism. Rural tourism allows the creation of an alternate source of income in the non-agricultural sectors for rural dwellers. The added income from rural tourism can contribute to the developement of lost folk-art and handicrafts. It can specifically be beneficial in a scenario of fragmented growth. The wealth it provide creates an anti-pressure against the urban migratory trend which is a big problem here.
Graphic representaion of villages in the watershed and their length represents distance from Gangtok schematically
Critical areas
......The critical areas were identified on the basis of overlaying the different layers.....to find out the most critical areas. ......The villages intersecting with the critical areas will need to be preserved along with the rich bio-diversity of the areas. ......The villages adjoining the spring recharge areas should’nt have any trekking related activities as it may pollute the sources. ......The yellow areas can be further developed. ......The steep slopes with sparse vegetaion needs to be protected as it is very difficult to re-establish vegetation at these places, and the lack of it may lead to severe erosion and landslides. 22
Potential tourist attractions Adventure tourism potential Cliff climbig, Kayaking and Para-gliding High elevation and rocky strata is idealfor cliff climbing activities The existing rivers are fast mountain rivers and provide ample challenges for activities like kayaking Para-gliding needs high elevation as a take-off point and ideal wind speed Pilgrimage tourism potential Monastery There are quite a few existing old monasteries in a nd around Gangtok some of which are already existing tourist attractions. There is an opportunity to convert the others into destinations Cultural tourism potential Tribal village The day to day activities and the festivals celebrated by tribals are a major attraction for people interested in the culture of this unique place Eco tourism potential Kaser I Hind butterfly, Rhododendron People with an interest in the natural world are attracted by the special flora and fauna indegenious to the region, like the Rhododendron and the Kaser-i Hind butterflies. Agro tourism potential Oranges and terrace farming Agricultural practices on the slopes is very different and specialised on the hills. This attracts a lot of people who like to witness the beauty of the layered patterns formed by the winding terraces. The sight of special fruits like oranges is also a magnet for tourists.
Potential route map
Route 1 Forest and eco tourism - trekking trails Villages- Karporang, Chemil, Rongyek, Chandmari, Tathangchen, Lachun.
Route 2 Cultural and pilgrimage tourism Villages- Burtuk, Luing, Phengyang, Lingdum, Tadong, Namnang.
Route 3 Agro tourism Villages- Nandok, Gaosharan, Changey Senti, Aho, Samsing, Pakyong.
Route 4 Adventure - trekking, camping and water sports Villages- Singtam, Burung, Ningtar, Phekchu.
Route 5 Culture and pilgrimage Villages- Lingtam, Martam, Sang, Rumtek, Shyagyong.
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Pakyong village - proposals
Homestay
Homestay
Para gliding/adventure sports
Terrace mixed farming
Singtam village - proposals
Agro forestry
Rafting/camping
Agri-tourism
White water rafting
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Mapping a wetland
Thol bird sanctuary, Ahmedabad
Thol Lake is an artificial lake near Thol village in Kalol in Mehsana District in the Indian state of Gujarat. It was constructed as an irrigation tank in 1912. It is a fresh water lake surrounded by marshes. It was declared the Thol Bird Sanctuary in 1988; it is a habitat to 150 species of birds, about 60% are waterbirds. Many migratory birds nest and breed in the lake and its periphery. The two most prominent species of birds recorded in the sanctuary are flamingoes and sarus crane (Grus antigone). The lake drains a catchment area of 15,500 hectares (38,000 acres). It is in a semi-arid zone of the Mehsana district with dominance of dry deciduous vegetation.The average annual rainfall in the catchment of the lake is 600 millimetres with a minimum of 100 millimetres and maximum of 800 millimetres.
Thol bird sanctuary is situated to the N-W of the city of Ahmedabad. It drains a catchment of 15,500 Ha, and is also fed by the Narmada canal during the dry season, ensuring that there is a minimum level of water.
The water body occupies an area of 699 Ha(6.99 sq.km) and its periphery is 5.62km long. Thol wetland catchment area is spread within six villages i.e. Thol, Jethlaj, Adhana, Vayana, Chandanpura, Jhaloda, which spreads 55.95 sq.km.
Catchment area and sub-basins
Water levels through the year
April
July
September
November
The water level varies through the year, mostly in accordance with the rainfall. The summer months of April has the lowest level. Levels then slowly rises with the onset of the monsoons in June.....and water levels peak in November with all the collected water. The Narmada canal also feeds the lake whenever the level becomes too less. The water is used by the surrounding farmers: pumped out to the fields for irrigation. Various resident and migratory birds are attracted by the shallow waters, which provide them with the perfect feeding and breeding grounds.
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Winter ( Oct - Feb )
Monsoon ( July - Sep )
Summer ( Apr - June )
Morning
Morning
Morning
Noon
Noon
Noon
Evening
Evening
Evening
Bird population statistics
Distribution of aquatic birds with regards to their habitat and foraging areas
Distribution of aquatic birds with regards to their migratory status
Vegetation
spontaneous dead naive waterlogged
Canopy
sparse thin less dense highly dense
Cluster
scarce small medium large
Fauna
Distribution of birds over aquatic and terrestial areas
Distribution of terrestial birds with regards to migratory status
by size insects birds animals
Ground
dry wet sill lines thin grass asphalt concrete
Water
vastness currents banks islands
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The migratory birds
which come to the THOL Bird sanctuary migrate mostly from northern & central Asia. Siberia & Europe or even locally from the Himalayas so their path is mostly north, north-east and North-west of Thol.
Morning
Evening
Key section
A-Birds on top of trees B-Birds at mid-level C-Birds in bushes below trees D-Birds in scrub/grasses feeding on insects E-Birds near shores/muddy patches F-Birds in emergent vegetation G-Birds in shallow waters H-Birds in deep water
Aquatic birds
Terrestial birds
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Vegetation
Aquatic vegetation-floating and submerged
Aquatic vegetation-edges and around
Reed meadow sedge,seral sedge, Cyperus sp., Polygonum sp., Scirpus sp.
Terrestial vegetation : scrub
Soil
Terrestial vegetation : woodlands
Acacia nilotica(plantation), Ipomoea fistula, Azadirachta indica, Cordia myxa, Alianthus excelsa, Cassia sp.,Salvadora oleoides
Agricultural crops Wheat, rice(with irrigation from thol), jowar, bajra, castor.
A1 Alluvium-slight eroded A2 Alluvium-mod. eroded A3 Alluvium-mod.eroded Water body E1 Stblsd. dunes-mod. eroded E2 Stblsd. dunes-mod. eroded E3 Stblsd. dunes-deep eroded
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Professional work- Internship
M/s Prabhakar B Bhagwat This was where I was introduced into the world of landscaping. It excited me to see the scope in it, the beauty it can bring about all around our lives and also the need and responsibility of this profession in such a rapidly urbanising world. So although these works were done very early in my career...they have always been an inspiration and a reference point.
Terrace Gardens Lodha Supremas
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Public Gardens Applewoods
Red bricks School Ahmedabad
Farm House Abhishree Orchard
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Professional work -INI Design Studio(Burthill-Stantec)
Courtyard Mariott, Bangalore
Mariott hotels are a chain of luxury accomodations all across India, and are built by the Pacifica group of companies. This one is near one of the busiest junctions in Bangalore, the Silk board junction. The project was however about not only designing a recreational landscape for a hotel, but also about integrating and yet segregating a cluster of serviced luxury apartments attached to the hotel. Relatively less open space..and a long list of requirements , from an entrance water feature, to a outdoor cafe, banquet lawns, and separate entrance-exits for the hotel and the residences posed a serious challenge to the design process. The landscape design celebrates the space, yet at the same time maintains a sense of calm repose. The iamge presented is of a formal, yet intense landscape with rich, dense plantation, water features and semi-segregated flexible spaces, which allow for multiple activities at the same time, each without disturbing the other. Areas like the banquet lawns, entrance court, pre-function areas can however be all grouped together to use a larger space if the need be.
PROGRAM AND MOODS
CIRCULATION AND LAYOUT
INITIAL CONCEPTS CONCEPT - ORGANIC
A tree embodies the sustenance of nature. With the expansion of urban habitat within the city, the many native trees, frequent along the streets got lost. The branching pattern on the hard paving celebrates an emerging growth, spreads as branching and grows into softscape in the forms of leaf patterns-the union of built and natural is realised.
CONCEPT - FORMAL
The linearity of the site and architectural lines is celebrated within a formal setting with the extension of the interiors to the outdoor garden rooms.
CONCEPT - AXIAL
The axial lines of the building and views define this landscape character. Spaces carved out are generated from view angles and hence the oblique lines of sight are transformed into working guides. 31
DECK SWIMMING POOL
BANQUET LAWN
PATIO
KIDS GARDEN PATIO
RESIDENTIAL ENTRY
REFLECTING POOL
PREFUNCION LAWN
Site section transverse - schematic SERVICE AREA
CAFE ARRIVAL COURT WATER FEATURE EXIT
RESIDENTIAL ENTRY
BANQUET ENTRY
Schematic transverse section RAMP UP
RAMP DN
HOTEL RECEPTION
ENTRANCE
Overall landscape plan
3RD Floor landscape plan
Reference images
ARRIVAL CONCEPT
Concept plan 5
6
WATER FEATURE
6 1 CAFE
4 INLAID PATTERN 3 2
PERIPHERY WALL
Proposed plan
Section through arrival plaza
Precedent images 32
PRE FUNCTION AND BANQUET
Banquet area wall elevation
Reference images
Residence area wall elevation
Residence area wall elevation
RESIDENCE ARRIVAL COURT
RESIDENCE POOL AND GARDENS
Peripheral planting/A
Peripheral planting/B
Reference images
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Professional work -INI Design Studio(Burthill-Stantec)
Hillcrest, Hyderabad
A residential project with a number of highrise apartments, all held together by a huge connecting podium, that runs all across the site. The podium is ground zero here and i nthis limited depth, needs a landscape that caters to the young and old at the same time. The idea was to design a landscape that could maximise the use of the surface runoff, and at the same time provide a structure for its outflow.
Phase 1: Site plan
Section typical showing planter with seating
OVERALL SITE PLAN
Section showing typical entry, seating, planter
Section typical showing peripheral walkway, lawn 34
Vehicular circulation The entire parking has been shifted to the basement, to keep the podium free of unwanted interference.Driveways on the podium are kept minimum and connect to a drop off zone near the entrance to the towers.
Landscape zoning The area is zoned to provide for relaxed quiet areas, as well as spaces for recreational activity. The driveway and ramp has been kept minimum, and most of the podium has been pedestrianised .
Hardscape plan Mixing up hard pavers with grass pavers reduces the hard surface in peripheral circulation areas. Other areas: flame finished brown granite, with contrasts of classic white.Grey and black interbanded pavers for roads, beige for drop off zones. Softscape plan A row of Cassias alternated with gulmohurs line the boundaries, the colours of which are visible from the edge of the podium. The podium has two lawns, one sand pit area for the kids, and sitting areas tucked in around the open spaces, lined with arecas, bamboos and flowering plants like Senecio,Thyrallis, Callistemon.
Section
showing edge condition:podium and boundary wall
Phase 1:
Site plan with levels, showing all drainage lines, intended slopes, scupper points and boundary wall height variations according to site profile 35
TYPICAL UNIT - ENTRY DETAIL
Reference images
Detail plan
DETAIL - PODIUM ENTRY
Reference images
Section AA - Water feature 36
Professional work - SA design studio
Belani housing, Rajarhat This residential cum commercial mixed developement project is designed on the outskirts of Newtown, Rajarhat. It is built on a challenging linear site, with a basement parking tier, two floors of commercial space and six floors of apartments above them. The design takes full advantage of the wide road frontage, and thus maximises visual connection and ground floor access to most of the commercial spaces. The density housing has been designed with exposed brickwork and exposed concrete as the basic materials, thus providing a contextual touch. Green spaces have been integrated at various levels to highlight the importance of the same in a concrete composition, and becmes an integral element of the facade. Apartment sizes have been varied to suit demands and requirements of people. The tree reaches out to the sky thus establishig a connection to the universe..... The circle defines the opening through which the tree connects to the expanse above.
Section
0
5
10M
Plan Apartments typical(6th/7th) floor 37
Option 1 Exposed brick and RCC
Option 2 Metal louvres and paint
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