Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse, Vishwamitri River, Vadodara, Gujarat, India

Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse

A landscape model to enhance cultural importance along watercourse

by Ashna Modi

PASSIVE DESIGN APPROACH ALONG WATERCOURSE

A THESIS SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE,

AS PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF DESIGN (LANDSCAPE) 2020 -2021

Ashna Modi

Priyanka Kanhare Patel Pratyush Shankar

Student Guide

Dean SEDA

Declaration

I hereby declare that the thesis titled Passive Design Approach along Watercourse is an independent work by me and has not been submitted at any other forum.

I am submitting this work for as partial fulfillment of the Thesis course for the Bachelor of Design (Landscape) Program at SEDA, Navrachana University.

In my capacity as a guide of the student’s thesis, I certify that this work can be submitted for partial fulfillment of the Thesis course for Bachelor of Design (Landscape) Program at SEDA, Navrachana University.

Priyanka Kanhare Patel - Guide

Ashna Modi – Student

Acknowledgement

First and foremost, I would like to thank my thesis mentor Priyanka Kanhare Patel. Without her assistance and dedicated involvement in every step throughout the process, this thesis would have never been accomplished. I would like to thank you very much for your support and understanding over these past pandemic months.

I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to all of my Design Department faculty members of SEDA for their help and support. I might want to pay my unique respects to Prof. Pragya Shankar for always guiding me and supporting me throughout my time at this school. She has always been my ongoing source of inspiration.

Most importantly, none of this could have happened without my family. I would like to thank my parents and my entire family for their unshaken support through my journey and giving me the opportunity to learn and explore my interests.

Getting through my thesis required more than academic support, and I have to thank Binoli Patel, Dhrumi Patel, Jay Choudhary, Ryan Bhadlawala,Tanvi Patel and Yash Bokil for listening to and, at times, having to tolerate me over the past four years. I cannot begin to express my gratitude and appreciation for their friendship and support.

Lastly, I would like to thank Varun Sangani and my fellow classmates for their immense support and guidance through the past 4 years.

fig 1. Sketch of Pavagadh Hills

Abstract

Passive Design Approach maintains a comfortable temperature within the design space using the basic landscape features to get the optimum benefit and to reduce or eliminate the public intervention. And the idea of passive design in a landscape design project can be achieved to the fullest when it is implemented near a watercourse by taking advantage of the landscape features (refer chapter 1) at a micro level.

Vishwamitri river is the heart line of Vadodara city in Gujarat State, India. Its unique ecosystem comprises the main river corridor, its associated tributaries, ravines, small streams, creeks, wetlands, oxbow lakes, and artificially created ponds. Historically, this rich ecosystem has provided natural floodwater control, groundwater recharge, and a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, thus promoting biodiversity and ameliorating adverse climatic conditions. The ecosystem has provided various communities alternative sources of irrigation, water supply, food, recreation, and livelihoods. But there is major deterioration of the river on account of rapid urbanization resulting into pollution, encroachment, and neglect. Because of that it has lost its cultural importance too in the process. The river now stays dry most of the time throughout the year so it is very important for source of the river to survive and to thrive in order to keep the river water flowing throughout the season.

The origin of the river is the most important place as it channelizes and forms larger river further hence it cannot be deteriorated. Therefore, this design project is an attempt along a short river stretch that enables the origin of river tributary to thrive and people to connect to it passively. This will eventually enhance the watercourse by bringing back its ecological and cultural significance through passive design approach.

1.1

1.1.2

1.1.3

1.1.4

1.1.5

1.1.6

1.1.7

2.1

2.1.1

2.1.2

2.1.3

2.1.4

2.1.4.1

2.1.4.1.1

2.1.4.1.2

01. Introduction

1.1 Impacts of landscape features on a design

1.1.1 Climate

1.1.2 Microclimates

1.1.3 Land

1.1.4 Land Use

1.1.5 Water

1.1.6 Vegetation

1.1.7 Topography

01. Introduction

Landscape consists of the geographic features that mark, or are characteristic of, a particular area. And a natural landscape is made up of these main features-

i. Climate

ii. Land

iii. Water

iv. Vegetation

iiv Topography

And in combination of these features, landscape is formed. Each of these features are inter-related and interdependent. All the living things are interdependent and landscape is where all they come together.

Landscape provides context that is built and for the activities of our daily lives. Anything that is built in landscape needs to take into account its surroundings and its situation to be sustainable and successful. All together, these features have impact on a design site in one way or the other.

All landscapes are defined by the sum of the attributes for better or worse. Geology, soils, topography and water features are all elements of landscape character. To these elements, plants can be added which can be the most defining elements of landscape. A forest is a very different place from a prairie. The way animals have used land may change the character of landscape. Beaver dams, for example, can change a landscape overnight. Animal grazing can also have very visible impacts. However, the human animal often has the most profound influence, with built forms making a strong impact on the landscape, and intensive land uses such us forestry can utterly erase or radically restructure the landscape.

1.1

Impacts of landscape features on a design

1.1.1 Climate

There are four broadly defined climatic regions of the globe. These are cold, cool-temperate, warm-humid and hot-dry regions. Each of these have distinct types of vegetation and topography. The kinds of human activities that take place in these four regions are all very different as well.

The seasons animate landscapes throughout the year. The rhythms and patterns of daily life change slowly from one season to next, giving life pleasing texture and experience. The seasons make planting choices exciting, with something new to look forward to in each season. Some plants give full measure in every season.

1.1.2 Microclimates

The patterns in which we use everyday spaces, such us urban squares and gardens are shaped largely by microclimates. Again, climate in this sense refers to an average of conditions on a given site, but in this case to a very specific location. It is important for planting choices and affects the way people use a space. In winter, a square with a little shade might be an attraction on sunny days. However, it would be pitilessly exposed place in summer, which would attract few people. Design can do little to change climate, but microclimate maybe manipulated very effectively on the smallest of sites. Extremes can be moderated by the provision of windbreaks or by channeling cool breezes. Water in any form can have cooling effect in an urban space. Plants also have an strong influence on microclimates, providing shade, moisture and protection from wind. Every place has a different mix and the manipulation of microclimates makes for stimulating design work.

1.1.3 Land

Land is a resource that provides us with food, habitat, building materials and fuel. It provides both work and recreation and those activities that gives meaning to our lives. A number of intangibles are provided by the land as well as a sense of belonging, identity, beauty and even love.

The earth’s crust is formed of rocks of various types, extruded, exploded, heated, squeezed, or laid down in layers of sediments which further forms layer of soil. Good fertile soil is formed as plants gain a foothold in the minerals particles and begin to build up the levels of organic matter within the soil . Grassland soils can be among the most fertile, with generations of plants layered over each other and held in place by the strong roots and fine structure of the grasses. Grazing animals contribute their dung to the mix, and the result is deep and productive topsoil.

The soils vary in response to sediment types and climatic conditions under the influence of their geomorphic settings. The vertical distribution patterns of carbonates in soil profiles show considerable differences among different geomorphic units, reflecting their contrasting water balance and migration pathways. The complex entanglement of fine earths and massive grassroots make the surface horizon extremely resilient, which helps to preserve the soils and to shape the landscapes. By integrating geomorphology, sedimentology, ecology and pedology, the outcomes gives the understanding of the evolution of typical landscapes and ecosystems.

1.1.4 Land use

Changes in landscape patterns have a strong relationship with changes in various land uses. Land use is the human activity that takes place on a site. Often this use is exploitative, where people are extracting sources for example, forestry, for commerce, for transportation, or for dwelling, among many other possibilities. Some land uses have a very light touch on landscape like bird preserve for bird watching, others have devastating impact, such as deforestation.

1.1.5 Water

The constant motion of water creates the climate and weather systems that shape the landscape and thus the nature of life on earth. Water falls on land and it is absorbed by the plants or soil. The land run off forming streams meets the sea. It also has other kinds of system such as removing water from the streets and pavements, systems of water transportation such as rivers or canals, at a small scale it includes fountains, ponds or pools in landscape and garden design.

Water is also a resource for more than merely supporting life. It can make life more pleasurable in the form of water-based recreation and water sports. It can cool the air in a city square or a garden on a hot summer day. It can provide us with beauty, scenery, along with sights and sounds that reduce stress, increase happiness and enrich our lives.

1.1.6 Vegetation

Plants form a thin layer over the whole surface of the earth, on both land and in the oceans. Plants also circulate moisture in the atmosphere, which helps to moderate the climate.

Plants give us pleasure, stimulating all the senses. Plants provide us with delicious food, attractive flowers and foliage and delightful scents. Plants give us comfort in ways beyond their basic qualities. Trees provide shade, keep strong winds at bay, clean polluted air, moderate temperatures and frame views.

Plants can also be used to hold soil in place against the action of erosion, to absorb access surface water during storms, or to draw contaminants out of polluted soil, and among so many other positive attributes.

Plants fall into few basic categories : trees, shrubs, vines, etc. which are further subdivided into endless categories. This provides an inexhaustible variety of ways to combine plants to make compositions. With the facts that plant change through the seasons and grow larger from year to year, it adds up to the most interesting and dynamic palette of design materials imaginable.

1.1.7 Topography

If a site is flat, the topography may not influence the location and layout of the building, but on a sloping site, the topography is likely to be a significant design factor.

The slope of a site and/or the slope of adjacent sites may affect access to sun and views.

Topography simply means the shape of the land and how it is described on maps using contour lines. Contours can convey much more information than merely the shape of the land. Drainage patterns, which impact on topography through the act of erosion, can be read and can indicate whether a landscape is arid or wet.

From a design point of view, a sloping site will be more challenging. If a site is sloping, the exact slope can be interpreted from a detailed Contour map. The contour locations and spacing of contours will play a big role in the setting of the building. Higher elevations with wind exposure are warmer and prevent soil from getting swampy. If it’s too windy where plants are to be plants, crops might get blocked with larger plants or planting in containers. Lower elevations tucked into valleys even shallow ones are generally colder and wetter. Valleys trap water, resulting in boggy soil and chilly roots on cold mornings.

All these landscape features hold important place in a design process but I specifically want to focus on the combination of Land and Water and Water and Vegetation along with its its effects in a landscape design project.

02. Preface

2.1 Case Studies

2.1.1 Timba Basalt Quarry Restoration

2.1.2 Red Ribbon Park / Turenscape

2.1.3 A Mother River Recovered: Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

2.1.4 Rivers and its Cultural Importance

2.1.4.1 Rivers and the cultural importance of its origin

2.1.4.1.1 Ganga : Gangotri Glacier

2.1.4.1.2 Krishna : Mahabaleshwar

2.2 Inference

2.3 Research Questions

2.4 Aim

2.5 Objectives

2.6 Methodology

02 Preface

2.1 Case Studies

2.1.1 Timba Basalt Quarry Restoration

“What was once a barren quarry is now a protected forest.”

In the making for close to 8 years - the site is a result of indepth knowledge and a curated process that ultimately led to the rejuvenation of land (area - 70 Hectares) and the creation of multiple micro-ecosystems.

The site is a rejection of the conventionally accepted hierarchy between man and nature. It allows for an inversing of this relationship; allowing human intervention in only so much as to protect the ecosystem that has now been created.

Creating a self-sustaining ecosystem process involved improving the quality of soil; allowing local species of grasses and trees to grow, to slowly regain control. The top soil was layered on the rock; this top soil became mulch and created the micro-environments necessary for the growth of grasses, native shrubs, and trees. A nearby stream was diverted to fill the quarry basin, and then stocked with fish.

With the optimum amount of intervention, the site has rapidly undergone the various stages of succession. It has allowed for interactions between the various forms of flora, and also flora and fauna.

fig 2.

Source: Landscapeindia

Plan highlighting the restoration site In Timba.

Source: Landscapeindia

Source: Landscapeindia

fig 3.

fig 4. Image of the quarry during construction

2.1.2 Red Ribbon Park / Turenscape

The Red Ribbon runs through the Qinhuangdao park against the background of natural terrain and vegetation, spanning 500 meters, integrating the functions of lighting, seating, environmental interpretation, and orientation.

While preserving as much of the natural river corridor as possible, this project demonstrates how a minimal design solution can achieve a dramatic improvement to the landscape.

The Red Ribbon was designed as a vivid element within a setting of green vegetation and blue water, curving with the terrain. Made of fiberglass, it is lit from the inside, glowing red at night. Crossings for small animals are built. Perforations were made on the ribbon’s top surface, creating a dotted pattern, in which lights and various grasses from the site grow. The bright red of the ribbon lights up this densely vegetated site, linking the diverse natural vegetation and the four flower gardens.

fig 6

Plan of Red Ribbon Park Source : Archdaily

Sketch showing all the elements used in Red Ribbon Park

Source : Archdaily

Source : Archdaily

Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse

fig 8

Images of Red Ribbon Park

fig 7

Native Species

Fiber Steel Lights

Board Walk

Native Species

2.1.3

A Mother River Recovered: Qian’an

Sanlihe Greenway

The Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway is transformed from the former garbage dump and sewage drainage.

Located in Qian’an City, Hebei Province, the Sanlihe River uses landscape to revive and construct both existing and new city infrastructure. Covering approximately 135 hectares, this ecological corridor stretches 13.4 km in length and varies 100300m in width. Within this linear park, water is diverted from the Luan River, through the city, before returning to Luan River. This project has transformed this seriously polluted landscape back to its previous splendor as a scenic urban ecological corridor. It exemplifies how a neglected landscape can be recovered as an green infrastructure and everyday landscape with restored ecosystem providing multiple services.

The combined pedestrian and cycle paths for both commuting and recreational use are integrated with art, revitalizing social identity by reflecting local traditions. Through the generation of ecological and aesthetic benefits, the project catalyzes sustainable urban development in the region.

fig 9

Plan and Analysis of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

fig 10

Images of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

fig 11

Image showing red folding paper structure made in of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

2.1.4 Rivers and its Cultural Importance

The importance of rivers have always been recognized for water resources, protection of nature, fisheries and recreation in view of their considerable contributions to landscape. In addition, rivers have certain definite environmental, social, cultural and economic values, as well. They are used by humans on a wide variety of purposes such as drinking water, irrigation, industry, power production, transportation, flood control, fishing, boating, swimming and aesthetic enjoyment. Rivers have many functions like providing connection between landscapes and communities and they also gather people around the same idea for a creative and sustainable environment. There is an apparent interaction between cultural level of societies and the use of water in all fields. Many cities in the world have been established along the river banks.

India is recognized as a river nation and has had a long history of mystical affiliation with its rivers. Here rivers are considered sacred and venerated. All human activities and rituals are innately associated with the riverfront. Rivers have functioned as crucial socio-cultural religious spaces.

But however, in today’s times however Rivers present a gory picture of neglect. Fresh water is polluted by domestic, industrial, agricultural and religious waste. Loss of life and property and damages to wildlife habitats can be cited among the risks caused by civilization on water sides. Past uses of rivers and social tendencies are effective on the present condition of rivers. Despite the unsatisfactory conditions of water sources in many parts, the increasing efficacy of sewage treatment systems provides new opportunities for inhabitants and improvement of rivers in morphological and economic sense. For attaining a normal level of life quality along river banks, necessary consideration and importance is be given to flood control systems and water quality.

2.1.4.1 Rivers and the cultural importance of its origin

2.1.4.1.1 Ganga - Gangotri Glacier

The ever-famous Ganga river originates in the Gangotri Glacier of Uttarkashi district in Uttarakhand. Gangotri Glacier is surrounded by snow-clad Himalayan peaks. This beautiful place is also a well-known pilgrimage site. Interestingly, a place called Goumukh near Gangotri Glacier is the source of Bhagirathi river which is one of the major tributaries of Ganga. Gangotri Glacier is an exciting place as you have to trek through the mountainous landscapes to reach the holy spot.

Source : Internet

fig 12

Images of Gangotri Glacier and Temples

2.1.4.1 Rivers and the cultural importance of its origin

2.1.4.1.2 Krishna – Mahabaleshwar

Krishna River is also one of the largest West flowing rivers in India. A place called Jor Village near the hill station of Mahabaleshwar is the primary source of the Krishna River. Krishna Bai Temple or Krishna Devi Temple is where Krishna River is said to originate near Mahabaleshwar. There is a small spring in this ancient temple and the water which flows from the mouth of a bull statue is said to be the Krishna River.

Source : Internet

fig 13

Images of Mahabaleshwar Temple

2.2 Inference

It can be said from all the case studies that, landscape features do play an important role in a design process. And it can be concluded that landscape features play important roles in combinations, for e.g., land and water, land and vegetation, water and vegetation and many more.

Moreover, in all the three projects land, water and vegetation has played a vital role in formation of a sustainable landscape. For e.g., Timba Basalt Quarry was restored allowing local species of grasses and trees to grow, to slowly regain control whereas in red ribbon park, the site was preserved by minimal design solution. And in Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway, landscape was recovered by diverting the water flow before the water returns to its original path. Every design has a specific kind of approach based on the type changes required in order to achieve the idea of self sustainability and the outcome is completely in favour of the design.

In all the case studies, major changes have not been made in terms of landscape features but modification or addition have been done. More of the native plant species have been introduced to the site or basic terrain changes have been made. The concept of minimal design intervention is used which has worked completely in favour of the design.

Rivers are the lifelines of every creature on earth and we can’t imagine a life without them. The birth places of the river has its cultural and historical importance. It is fascinating to see how they originate as a small spring and further become large rivers that flows for several kilometers. These landscape features play a significant role for the river to thrive.

Hence, through my research, I would want to show the potential of land, water and vegetation in combinations for a design project along a watercourse with the importance of all landscape features and how can one use it through different approaches. Moreover playing with those features in combination such as land and water or land and vegetation would result is exceptionally promising design project.

2.3 Research Questions

• How does landscape design get influenced with change in landscape? And if design is influenced by these features then why emphasis is not put on it?

• How is the change or modification of these features related to the cultural importance of origin of any river?

2.4

Aim

To understand and imply the importance of landscape features using passive design approach and to introduce cultural significance to the origin of river.

2.5 Objectives

• To understand the idea of passive design

• To understand the importance of a water course and its source

• To suggest an idea of minimal design approach

• Providing an idea of a landscape space which is selfsustaining and ecologically sound

2.6

Methodology

• Literature Study

• Case Studies

• Data Collection

• Site Identification and Analysis

• Developing Drawings

• Final Design Output

03. About River Vishwamitri

Vishwamitri river is the heart line of Vadodara city. The river originates in the western and southern slopes of the Pavagadh Hill and flows westward through Vadodara for 26.8 kilometers (km) before draining into the Gulf of Khambhat.

Its unique ecosystem comprises the main river corridor, its associated tributaries, ravines, nalas/kaans (small streams/ creeks), wetlands, oxbow lakes, and artificially created ponds. These serve as a natural habitat for legally protected and vulnerable species, such as crocodiles, and are also home to abundant flora and fauna, including vulnerable species such as Ravan taad (Hyphaene dichotoma) and turtles.

Historically, this rich ecosystem has provided natural floodwater control, groundwater recharge, and a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, thus promoting biodiversity and ameliorating adverse climatic conditions. The ecosystem has provided various communities alternative sources of irrigation, water supply, food, recreation, and livelihoods.

Vadodara, the third largest city in Gujarat, equally famous for its industrial development as for its environmental pollution, is located on the banks of Vishwamitri river. The city has suffered enormously from the river’s deterioration on account of rapid urbanisation and the resulting pollution, encroachment, and neglect. Broadly speaking, the major causes of the degradation are improper sewage management, an increase in impervious surface coverage, deforestation throughout the watershed, encroachment on the floodplains, a lack of concern for ecological processes, proliferation of invasive species (such as Prosopis juli ora), open dumping of solid waste, and a general lack of sensitivity to the historical repercussions of development. Indiscriminate and rampant encroachment, the dumping of waste in ravines—including construction debris, municipal and industrial waste, dead carcasses, and untreated or inadequately treated sewer water—and neglect or even active participation by the local authorities in the pollution and dumping have led to the choking of ravines and wetlands, and the shrinking of the river. Consequently, the monsoons cause inundation of low-lying areas in Vadodara due to the loss of natural floodwater drainage. The deterioration of Vishwamitri river has caused severe misery among the underprivileged living in highly vulnerable, low-lying areas.

Therefore, it is very important for the source of the river to survive and thrive in order to keep the river water flowing throughout the season.

04. Study Area

fig 14

Plan indicating important Landmarks near Pavagadh Hills

Source : Google Earth

fig 15

Pavagadh

Pavagadh Foothills

Sand Mining

Champaner

05. Site Delineation

06. SWOT Analysis

fig 16

Site Dlineation

Site Selection Parameters –

• Less slopy

• Cultural Importance

• Easily Accessible

• Moderately Vegetated

• Less Built Up area

• Near a waterbody

Strength – - Foothills of Pavagadh

- Part of origin of the River

- Cultural Importance

- Connected to main road

Weakness – Water doesn’t flow throughout the season

-Surrounded by agricultural land

Opportunity – Open river bed and open grounds

Threat – Pollution

fig 17

Image of the Site near tributary of R. Vishwamitri

07. Observing the channels of water

Google Eath Images of tributary of R. Vishwamitri, 2020.

Source : Google Earth

Summer Year 2020

Monsoon Year 2020

Site Study

08.

This river section shows proper land profile of the dried stream of river Vishwamitri and vegetation taking over the river bed. The soil on the slope contains moisture allowing the plants to grow. And the area covered with gravels is the path for water to flow. Gradual change is seen land profile and texture of this particular area.

Ziziphus mauritiana

Crop soil

Azadirachta indica

Black clayey soil

Gravels Location

Pavagadh Hills

Main road

Unidentified wild plant

Unidentified wild plant

Wild grass

Site Study

08.

The sections show the land profile of the whole trail including the river bed and the change in type of vegetation throughout. Man-made changes have been made partially.

The stream through which Vishwamitri flows has not been hindered but a secondary canal network has been made in order to meet the demands of agricultural lands. Natural vegetation has not been hindered instead new plantation has been done.

Main road

Land Profile Location Land Profile

Ricinus communis

Psidium guajava Thorny bushes

Butea monosperma

Tamarindus indica

Calotropis gigantea

Moringa oleifera Ziziphus mauritiana Washingtonia filifera N

09. Site Analysis Built and Open

Site Analysis Vegetation

09.

09. Site Analysis Accessibility

09. Site Analysis

Physical and Visual Accessibility

09. Site Analysis Sun

09. Site Analysis Wind

09. Site Analysis Elevation

Site Analysis Slope

10. Water

Water level during monsoon

Water level during winters

Water level during summers

Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse

11. Vision Statement

12. Designing Stretch of a River

13. Passive Design Space

14. Design Program

11. Vision Statement

This design aims at creating a self-sustaining ecosystem while having a passive recreational space along 1 km long stretch of a river near the foothills of Pavagadh. One of the tributaries of origin of river Vishwamitri is situated in this region so it holds cultural importance, hence this area can be considered as a source of the river. Eventually, this design process will help the river thrive with its minimal design approach.

12. Designing Stretch of a River

The most unique aspect of the site is that it is located near the foothills of Pavagadh where one of the tributaries of River Vishwamitri originates. So this place holds cultural importance.

This river stays dry most of the time in entire year, so the spaces in this design will enable origin of the river belt to survive. With minimum design intervention and self-sustaining properties, this design will ultimately come together as a passive experiential space along with different physical and visual connections. It will also help the river belt to thrive as native plant species will be introduced to purify the river water.

The origin of the river is the most important place as it channelizes and forms larger river further hence it cannot be deteriorated . Therefore, this design project is an attempt along a short river stretch that enables the origin of river tributary to thrive and people to connect to it passively.

13. Passive Design Space

The design that maintains a comfortable temperature within the design space using the climate and natural elements to get the optimum benefit and to reduce or eliminate the independence on mechanical systems for heating, cooling and lighting, is called ‘Passive Design’. In this design, the spaces will be made with reduced human intervention where it can be approached visually but not physically. There will be free flow of movement while keeping the vegetation as well the river stream untouched and unhindered. All together this design will enable stream of the river origin to thrive by self-sustained ecosystem and will allow people to experience its cultural importance with minimal design approach.

14. Design Program

• Self-sustaining ecosystem process of the river includes widening of the channel at points where necessary.

• Improving ground line and introducing a fertile layer of soil with high moisture retaining capacity.

• Introducing various layers of vegetation

• Pockets of buffer zone where the polluted water can be filtered naturally with the help of aquatic plant species.

• Spaces that will connect people to the river passively.

• An experiential pathway along the river stretch.

15. Conceptual Diagrams

Conceptual Diagram - 1

15. Conceptual Diagram - 1

15. Conceptual Diagrams

Conceptual Diagram - 2

Conceptual Diagram - 2

16. Design Development

16.1 Widening of the river and Improving of the ground line

16.2 Buffer Zone

16.2.1 Introduction

16.2.2 How will a buffer zone work along a stream of R. Vishwamitri

16.2.3 Plant species for buffer zones

16.2.4 Conceptual Sections

16.2.5 Part Plan

16.3 Experiential walkway

16.3.1 Entrance

16.3.1.1 Views

16.3.1.2 Conceptual sections

16.3.1.3 Part Plan

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.1 Views

16.3.2.2 Conceptual Sections

16.3.2.3 Part Plan

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.1 Views

16.3.3.2 Part Plan

16. Design Development

Stepping stones and tree plantation

• Space enclosed within bamboo planting,

• Open spaces with raised platforms

• Pause points

Planting different species of aquatic plants to filter the river water

Origin

Creating a “dwar” like structure by growing bamboos along a part of river stretch

16. Design Development

16.1 Widening of the river and Improving of the ground line

16.1 Widening of the river and Improving of the ground line

Widening of the river and Improving of the ground line

Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse

16. Design Development

16.2 Buffer Zone

16.2.1 Introduction

16.2.2 How will a buffer zone work along a stream of R. Vishwamitri

16.2.3 Plant species for buffer zones

16.2.4 Conceptual Sections

16.2.5 Part Plan

16.2 Buffer Zone 16.2.1 Introduction

A riparian buffer, also known as a stream buffer, is an area that is vegetated near a stream. It is usually forested and helps to provide shade and protection to the stream from the impact of adjacent land use (agricultural or industrial).It is vital to help increase water quality in associated streams, lakes, and rivers. This is beneficial for marine life and environment.

The plains and areas surrounding a river, or any water body for that matter, are called Riparian zones. Not only do riparian zones include floodplains, but also the riparian buffers bordering the flood plains. Riparian zones offer recreational benefits to streams, many environmental benefits, groundwater, and downstream land areas.

Ground water is mostly found at shallower depths in Riparian Zones. Riparian zones are clearly visible by a green belt hugging the river with suitable plants that are modified to depend on the shallow water table.

A mat of decay material over the soil is created because of the extra moisture in riparian zones and related wet lands, along with large amounts of vegetation. It is mostly wet because the water table is at the surface or close to it. The moisture is conserved because of this organic rich layer. The surface water is protected in many ways due to the vegetation and sponge like quality of the soil in wetlands, flood plains, and riparian zones.

16.2.2 How will a buffer zone work along a stream of R. Vishwamitri

representation of a Riparian Buffer Zone

How do buffer zones work? Functions and Values of Riparian areas -

1. Base flow

2. Nutrient cycling

3. Hydrology

4. Water quality

5. Aquatic life

6. Downstream flooding

7. Transfer of energy

8. Terrestrial life

Benefits of Riparian Buffer Zones

1. Water Quality

2. Flood Protection

3. Provide Habitats

4. Increased Biodiversity

5. Economically beneficial

6. Other Benefits of Riparian Areas

How will a buffer zone work along a stream of R. Vishwamitri

representing working of a riparian buffer zone

fig 36

Sectional

fig 37

Diagram

Ground layers

Shrubs

16.2.3 Plant species for buffer zones

fig 38

Plant species used in Riparian Buffer zones of R. Vishwamitri

Scirpoides holoschoenus (Bulrushes)

Canna x generalis (Canna

Cyperus papyrus (Papyrus)

Pennisetum setaceum (fountain grass)

Eleocharis dulcis (Water chestnut)

Pennisetum purpureum (Elephant grass )

Typha (Cattails)

16.2.4 Conceptual Sections

Passive

River Trail

Existing Trees

Board Walkway

Passive

Grasses

Existing Trees

Board Walkway

fig 41

Part Plan of Riparian Buffer zone

River

Seasonal Trees

16. Design Development

16.3 Experiential walkway

16.3.1 Entrance

16.3.1.1 Views

16.3.1.2 Conceptual sections

16.3.1.3 Part Plan

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.1 Views

16.3.2.2 Conceptual Sections

16.3.2.3 Part Plan

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.1 Views

16.3.3.2 Part Plan

16.3 Experiential Walkway

The Vishwamitri River emerges from the hills of Pavagadh and flows through the heart of Vadodara city in Gujarat. It empties into the Gulf of Khambhat. Sage Vishwamitra ,who the river is named after created a mokshdwar (gateway to heaven) for downtrodden Hindu people at Kayavarohan, a village in the Vadodara district. The river is named after him. The experiential walkway is designed in a way that will make people experience the same journey from the origin of the river. The entrance and the assumed origin of river Vishwamitri follows same language with two pause points and raised platform making the area passively approachable.

Steps leading to the walkway with bamboo plantation on both the sides of the stream

Raised platform connected to walkway

Pause Point 2 Pause Point 1

Providing benches for people to take a break while walking towards the origin of the river

Creating a “dwar” like structure with the help of bamboo plantation along a small part of river stretch

Board Walk

Board Walk

Board Walk

16. Design Development

16.3 Experiential walkway

16.3.1 Entrance

16.3.1.1 Views

16.3.1.2 Conceptual sections

16.3.1.3 Part Plan

16.3.1 Entrance

16.3.1.1 Views

16.3.1 Entrance

16.3.1.2 Conceptual sections

Conceptual Sections of the Entrance

Passive

Dry Season

River Trail

Existing Trees

Main Road

Passive

Grasses

Existing Trees

River Seasonal Trees Main Road

Bamboo Plantation

16. Design Development

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.1 Views

16.3.2.2 Conceptual Sections

16.3.2.3 Part Plan

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.1 Views

fig 47

Views of the Pause Point and Board Walk

Wet Season

Dry Season

Passive

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.2 Conceptual Sections

Sections of Pause Point and Board Walk

Conceptual

Passive

16.3.2

Raised Platform

Bridge

Passive

16.3.2 Pause Point and Board Walk

16.3.2.3 Part Plan

16. Design Development

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.1 Views

16.3.3.2 Part Plan

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.1 Views

“Dwar”(Door)

Creating a “dwar” like structure with bamboo plantation along a part of river stretch.

Bamboo planation creates a door like structure here through which Pavagadh is visible. This creates a vision of water coming from foothills of Pavagadh with bamboo structure as a door.

Views of the Origin

Wet Season

Dry Season

Passive Design Approach Along Watercourse

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.1 Views

Wet Season

Dry Season

Passive

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.2 Part Plan

River Trail

Existing Trees

Walkway

16.3.3 Origin of the River Stream

16.3.3.2 Part Plan

River

Existing Trees

Walkway

Bamboo Plantation

17. Master Plan Layers

17.1 Entrance and Origin of the River Stream

17.2 Buffer Zone

17.3 Experiential walkway

17. Master Plan Layers

17.1 Entrance and Origin of the River Stream

Steps leading to the walkway with bamboo plantation on both the sides of the stream Entrance

Creating a “dwar” like structure with the help of bamboo plantation along a small part of river stretch

Master Plan highlighting Entrance and Origin of the River Stream

Passive

17. Master Plan Layers

17.2 Buffer Zone

Master Plan highlighting three pockets of Riparian Buffer Zones

Passive

17. Master Plan Layers

17.3 Experiential Walkway

• Bridge Experiential Walkway

• Space enclosed within bamboo plantation

• Open spaces with raised platforms

• Pause points

fig 57

Master Plan highlighting the spaces of Experiential Walkway

18. Master Plan Passive Design

18. Master Plan

19. Site Section

20. Bibliography

ASLA 2013 Professional Awards | A Mother River Recovered: Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway. (2013).American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). https://www.asla.org/2013awards/062.html

Culture and changing landscape structure. (2018, January 11). Culture and Changing Landscape Structure. http:// www.environmentguide.org.nz/issues/landscape/why-arelandscapes-and-features-important/

Gaete, J. (2019, October 24). Red Ribbon Park / Turenscape. ArchDaily. https://www.archdaily.com/445661/red-ribbon-parkturenscape?ad_medium=office_landing&ad_name=article

Goyal, A. (2014, November 4). HISTORIC PAVAGADH HILL, GUJARAT – UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE. Travel Blog From India. https://www.inditales.com/historic-pavagadh-hillgujarat/

Kombol, M. (2015). 30:30 Landscape Architecture (Illustrated ed.). Phaidon Press.

Landscapeindia. (2014). TIMBA BASALT QUARRY RESTORATION. http://www.landscapeindia.net/projects/ landscape-architecture/restoration-of-basalt-quarry

Passive Design. (2016, June). K. Tabet Aoul, Akash Deep, Haşim Altan, Mona Hajibandeh. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-31931967-4_8

Saving the Vishwamitri : An Ongoing Tussle between Waterfront. (2018, November 26). Economic and Political Weekly. https:// www.epw.in/journal/2018/46/insight/saving-vishwamitri.html

Sinha, A. (2018). Conservation of historic water systems in Champaner-Pavagadh, Gujarat, India. Landscape Research, 44(5), 588–599. https://doi.org/10.1080/01426397.2018.149570 2

20. Bibliography

Soomro, A. (2020, November 1). Riparian Buffer Zone: Function, Benefits, Design. Environment Buddy. https://www. environmentbuddy.com/farming/riparian-buffer-zone-functionbenefits-designs/

Vinayak, A. (2018, April 12). Birthplaces of Famous Rivers That Originate in India - Nativeplanet. Birthplaces of Famous Rivers That Originate in India. https://www.nativeplanet.com/travelguide/birthplace-famous-rivers-that-originate-in-india-002652. html

Waterman, T. (2015). The Fundamentals of Landscape Architecture (2nd ed.). Fairchild Books.

WIENS, J. A. (2002). Riverine landscapes: taking landscape ecology into the water. Freshwater Biology, 47(4), 501–515. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2427.2002.00887.x

21. List Of Figures

fig.0 Cover Page

Produced by Author

fig.1 Sketch of Pavagadh Hills

Produced by Author

fig. 2 Plan highlighting the restoration site In Timba.

Source: Landscapeindia

fig 3.Stages of formation of a Self-Sustaining Ecosystem

Source: Landscapeindia

fig 4.Image of the quarry during construction

Source: Landscapeindia

fig 5.Images of the quarry after formation of multiple micro ecosystems

Source: Landscapeindia

fig 6 Plan of Red Ribbon Park

Source : Archdaily

fig 7 Sketch showing all the elements used in Red Ribbon Park

Source : Archdaily

fig 8 Images of Red Ribbon Park

Source : Archdaily

fig 9 Plan and Analysis of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

fig 10 Images of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

fig 11 Image showing red folding paper structure made in of Qian’an Sanlihe Greenway

Source : Archdaily

fig 12 Images of Gangotri Glacier and Temples

Source : Internet

fig 13 Images of Mahabaleshwar Temple

Source : Internet

fig 14

Plan indicating important Landmarks near Pavagadh Hills

Source : Google Earth

21. List Of Figures

fig 15 Images of tributrary of R. Vishwamitri

Clicked by Author

fig 16 Site Dlineation Produced by Author

fig 17 Image of the Site near tributary of R. Vishwamitri Produced by Author

fig 18 Google Eath Images of tributary of R. Vishwamitri, 2020. Source : Google Earth

fig 19-20 Site Study Produced by Author

fig 21-28 Site Analysis Produced by Author

fig 29 Water level throughout the year Produced by Author

fig 30-31Conceptual Diagrams Produced by Author

fig 32 Design Development Produced by Author

fig 33

Widening of the river and Improving of the ground line Produced by Author

fig 34 Buffer Zone diagram Produced by Author

fig 35 Indicating Buffer Zones on plan Produced by Author

fig 36 Sectional representation of a Riparian Buffer Zone Produced by Author

fig 37 Diagram representing working of a riparian buffer zone

Source : Internet

fig 38 Plant species used in Riparian Buffer zones of R. Vishwamitri

Source : Internet

21. List Of Figures

fig 39 Conceptual Sections of Riparian Buffer zone Produced by Author

fig 40 Part Plan of Riparian Buffer zone during dry season Produced by Author

fig 41 Part Plan of Riparian Buffer zone during wet season Produced by Author

fig 42 Plan of Experiential Walkway Produced by Author

fig 43 Views of the Entrance Produced by Author

fig 44 Conceptual Sections of the Entrance Produced by Author

fig 45 Part Plan of the Entrance during dry season Produced by Author

fig 46 Part Plan of the Entrance during wet season Produced by Author

fig 47 Views of the Pause Point and Board Walk Produced by Author

fig 48 Conceptual Sections of Pause Point and Board Walk Produced by Author

fig 49 Part Plan of Pause Point and Board Walk during dry season Produced by Author

fig 50 Part Plan of Pause Point and Board Walk during wet season Produced by Author

fig 51-52 Views of the Origin Produced by Author

fig 53 Part Plan of the Origin during dry season Produced by Author

fig 54 Part Plan of the Origin Produced by Author

fig 55 Master Plan highlighting Entrance and Origin of the River Stream Produced by Author

21. List Of Figures

fig 56 Master Plan highlighting three pockets of Riparian Buffer Zones

Produced by Author

fig 57 Master Plan highlighting the spaces of Experiential Walkway Produced by Author

fig 58 Master Plan with levels Produced by Author

fig 59 Site Section with levels Produced by Author