SPONGE COLLABORATIVE +
WEAVING WITH WATER Team
MULLASSERY CANAL FRAMEWORK AND CANAL EDGE MASTERPLAN
Community: I.
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Physical accessibility to canal - Ghats & decks: Mullassery canal in its existing condition is inaccessible along the entire length due to lack of any accessible spatial elements and poor maintenance. With the rejuvenation of the precinct, making the canal edge accessible could allow people to interact with water and engage in multiple activities. Ghats, decks, stairways, and walkways are provided along the coastal edge, Priyadarshini Park, and KMC land. Visual permeability to canal - Fenestrations & Thresholds: Households living along the canal edge most commonly turn their back to the canal and do not have opportunities for physical / visual connection. As one of the rejuvenation strategies, the household could be encouraged/mandated to shift their fenestration, and threshold spaces (Entry porch, Front yard, Balcony, Windows) towards the canal. Padikathukulam East and West colonies along with the households in the fashion street are proposed to have such alterations. Placemaking & programming - Parklets & Breakout spaces: The canal edge presently does not have opportunities for any specific programs that could invite people and encourage them to spend time. The reclaimed open spaces along the canal could be reimagined as parklets and breakout spaces through placemaking and programming. Dedicated vending zones, kids play area, shaded seating space, performance floor, and art installations are proposed to be included along the canal edges Solid waste management - Community sensitization: Poor solid waste management is the biggest threat for the maintenance of Mullassery canal and health of people living around. Community sensitization on effective management processes through capacity building activities and including them as part of the process could be the best way for a healthy future.
Figure 58: Concept for canal edge rejuvenation near Padikathukulam East colony (Image Credit: Weaving with Water team)
