Transformation Projects

Redevelopment of the Manek Chowk Area

Activity Mapping:

7-10 am Vegetable market 12 - 6 pm Parking and vending 6 - 9 pmFood plaza

Various activities take place at Manek Chowk’s central space throughout the day and night. Early in the morning, around 6:00 a.m., the area is cleaned. Cows and buffalos roam the area, feeding on organic waste and grass brought by the property owner. Locals help feed the cows since it is considered holy in many regions of the country to feed a cow first thing in the morning. The spout, which is positioned in the centre of the court, fills buckets with water. A regular hired helper then keeps these filled buckets outside each shop. Because the stores lack wash basins, these buckets are used throughout the day. Jewelry stores line either side of the middle space, with the merchants parking in the centre area. They are open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during the day. Informal merchants offer ordinary products like plastic in standing in line.

Spices, accessories, and clothing As shops return to their homes in the evening, parking places become available, which are then taken up by food sellers who have been allotted specific spaces over time. Customers travel from all across Ahmedabad to sample the street cuisine. Electricity is obtained from nearby businesses. Carts and equipment are stored near the tomb area behind the stores throughout the day. The vending carts’ cleaning areas are the line gutters. The food court is open till three o’clock in the morning. Beyond this centre space, the food vendor area extends to the southern square and the area near the northern parking lot. The day’s activities then repeat cyclically. This multi-ownership and diversity of activities is what makes this place active.

Problem Identification :