Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Launches Heritage Status Initiative for Over 400 Buildings
Ahmedabad's rich heritage narrative has traditionally revolved around its iconic Old City, but a significant chapter of its architectural history lies beyond the historic walls. Hundreds of structures outside the Walled City have awaited statutory protection for years. In a landmark move, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has now commenced the process to grant heritage status to more than 400 buildings, a project anticipated to conclude within the next six months.
Historic Identification and Grading Efforts
Back in December 2014, the AMC commissioned the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) to identify and document historically significant structures beyond the confines of the Walled City. Utilizing advanced GPS mapping technology, experts conducted extensive field visits across the then 460 square kilometer municipal area to meticulously record buildings of notable architectural and historical value.
The comprehensive INTACH report identified a total of 861 historical buildings. Among these, 382 structures were graded based on their significance, with the categorisation placing 52 buildings in Grade 1, 38 in Grade 2A, 49 in Grade 2B, and 243 in Grade 3. An additional 479 structures were not included in the temporary grading list, highlighting the vast scope of Ahmedabad's built heritage.
Key Buildings Set for Protection
Now, more than 400 of these buildings are poised to receive formal heritage status. Notable examples include the majestic Fatehbaugh Palace in Fatehwadi village, the esteemed Gujarat Vidyapith, historic Gujarat College, the Circuit House, the revered Hutheesing Temple, and the ancient stepwell in Vadaj. Once officially notified, these structures will be protected from demolition, and their owners will become eligible for transferable development rights (TDR) benefits to aid in maintenance and upkeep.
An anonymous AMC official emphasized that these buildings represent a crucial yet often neglected part of the city's architectural legacy. The corporation will soon release a list of these buildings, and public objections and suggestions will be invited before finalising the heritage status, the official stated, underscoring the inclusive approach of this initiative.
Background and Urgency of Preservation
This 2014 exercise was strategically undertaken ahead of Ahmedabad's prestigious declaration as a UNESCO World Heritage City in July 2017. While the Walled City garnered focused attention following the UNESCO tag, numerous structures outside its boundaries remained without statutory safeguards, leaving them vulnerable to deterioration and potential loss.
The INTACH report had previously highlighted the concerning condition of these graded buildings. Of the 382 structures assessed, only 18% were classified as being in Good condition, with 37% in fair condition, 25% showing signs of deterioration, 15% in serious deterioration, and a alarming 5% categorised as in danger of disappearance. Despite initial plans in 2014 to notify and protect them, formal measures did not materialize, delaying critical preservation efforts.
Now, after a prolonged wait of 12 years, the AMC is finally initiating the process to grant heritage status to these buildings, aiming to ensure their effective preservation for future generations. This proactive step marks a significant advancement in safeguarding Ahmedabad's diverse architectural heritage beyond its famed Walled City.
