A

THESIS PROJECT REPORT

ON

PROPOSAL OF WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT OF NELA POND IN

UDAIPUR

Submitted in Partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree
Of
Bachelor of Architecture
In

BUDDHA INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTURE AND TOWN PLANNING

UDAIPUR (RAJ.) – 313001, INDIA
MAY-2019

Undertaken By
CHANDNI TANDON
Enrollment No. - 14EBGAR006
Bachelor of Architecture
2018-2019

RAJASTHAN TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY, KOTA

ESTD. 2006
 Revitalizing Neighborhood Through Waterfront 
Development  
of  
Nela Pond  
in  
Udaipur, Rajasthan 
 
 

 
Chandni Tandon  
guided by 
 
Ar. Jaideep Vyas Sir 
 
 
 
Bachelor of Architecture 
 
 

 
Buddha Group of Institutions 
Udaipur 

1
 UNDERTAKING 
 
 
I Chandni Tandon, the author of the thesis titled ​‘Revitalizing Neighborhood 
Through Waterfront Development of Nela Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan’​, hereby 
declare that this is an independent work of mine, carried out towards partial 
fulfilment of the requirements for the award of B.Arch. degree at the Faculty 
of Architecture, Buddha group of Institutions, Udaipur, Rajasthan.  
 
 
 
 
 
Chandni Tandon 
V year B.Arch.  
 
Date: June, 2019 
Place:  Udaipur, Rajasthan 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Disclaimer 
This document describes work undertaken as part of the B.Arch. Degree at the 
Faculty of Architecture, Buddha group of Institutions, Udaipur. All views and 
opinions expressed therein remain the sole responsibility of the author, and do not 
necessarily represent those of the Institute, the Dissertation Guide(s), or the 
Dissertation Committee. 

2
  
 
 
 
 
CERTIFICATE 
 
This is to certify that the dissertation titled ‘Revitalizing Neighborhood Through 
Waterfront Development of Nela Lake in Udaipur, Rajasthan’ has been submitted 
by Chandni Tandon towards partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of 
B.Arch. degree, in accordance with the undertaking signed by the student on the 
previous page. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Guide: Ar. Jaideep Vyas  Coordinator: Ar. Javed Ali 
 
Date: 20/06/2019 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

3
 ABSTRACT 
 
Historically, waterfronts developments have undergone various stages of 
development initiatives and become the most challenging tasks for planners and 
urban designers nowadays. It reflected a dynamic natural resources with special 
characteristics and regarded as the most important factors that influence the 
growth and image of the cities and had a significant impact on urbanization and 
modernization of the most cities in the near future, as experienced by most harbor 
cities in the world such as Asia, Europe, North America, Australasia, Japan and 
others.  
 
This thesis attempts to understand the evolution of waterfront development within 
the framework of urban design and public spaces, as practiced by Udaipur 
currently. Thus, it also became the reflection of people’s spiritual and physical 
culture. This cultural reflection of people on the physical context of the city can be 
seen mainly in the stage of urban design, because in this stage, buildings as 
individual units of the city structure will be connected to each other by roads, nods 
and open spaces. Thus, moving, gathering and getting a place as daily activities of 
inhabits affected by their culture from one side and the urban design process from 
another side. In the center of the design process is public spaces due to their 
important role as places of gathering and hosting the cultural and commercial daily 
activities. 
 
This is relating to the need of using water as a source for drinking, agriculture and 
then for trade and transport. These water bodies which shaped waterfronts of 
many cities, recently, emerged as one of the most important issues of urban design 
and planning disciplines. Because they are not only an edge between urban fabric 
and water, but due to the variety of roles and functions that waterfront has across 
the history from a place for trade, transport, industry and nowadays as public open 
space for recreation and tourism. Therefore, this leads to add a new type of public 
spaces to the city structure and change the image of many cities through offering a 
different water-city integration model. Public spaces have formed the background 
of public life, and supported community's needs for commercial activities, sacred 
celebrations, social interaction.  
 
This thesis sets out to investigate the development of waterfront within the 
framework of urban design and public spaces. In addition, the thesis discusses the 
factors that affect this evolution and transformed the waterfront from place for 
trade, transport and industry to be a place for recreation, tourism and 
entertainment. 
  
 
 
 
 
 

4
 ACKNOWLEDGMENT 
 
Many people have contributed, knowingly or unwittingly, to the preparation of this 
thesis, not least the numerous student architects who have been subjected to 
various forms of teaching related to its development. Some of them have said 
things, or done things in their designs, that have prompted thoughts which are 
included here. I have benefited from many discussions with my guide Ar. Jaideep 
Vyas, Head of the Department of Buddha Group of Institutions Udaipur, without his 
guidance and persistent help this dissertation would not have been possible.  
 
The success and final outcome of this project required a lot of guidance and 
assistance which I am extremely privileged to have got this all from Ar. Amit Sen 
along the completion of my project.  
And from the encouragement & knowledge of my coordinator Ar. Javed Sir who was 
kind enough to read the material while in preparation and who made a number of 
useful comments. I would like to express the deepest appreciation to our registrar 
Mr. Hemant Chaubisa. I am also grateful to the Dean Mr. Sanjeev Gupte who have, 
unknowingly, stimulated ideas which are included in the following pages. Also, I 
extended my gratitude to Ar. Vijay Damor who have always helped and supported in 
each possible way.  
In addition, a thank you to all the faculty members for their support and 
enthusiasm which had a lasting effect.  
Heartily thank you to partner-cum-friend Ar. Jayesh Chauhan that all I have done 
is due to his amazing tricks and techniques he his learning during his practice 
period such supervision and assistance helped me to always fight the battles. Some 
ideas have come from far afield, from family, my parents and brother from their 
love, support and help, but with whom I sometimes indulge in discussion and their 
views and thoughts come across.  
 
And finally, as always, one must thank those who are close and who put up with 
having someone around who is writing a dissertation. In my case these 
long-suffering people are Nirali, Akhilesh, Vishvesh, Varun, Jeevan, Asmita, 
Poulomi and Namrata.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

5
 Table of Contents 
 
 
UNDERTAKING 2 
CERTIFICATE 3 
ABSTRACT 4 
ACKNOWLEDGMENT 6 
 
UNIT I:  PRELUDE 
 
CHAPTER I Introduction   
1.1 Introduction to Waterfronts 11 
  1.2 Aim 14 
1.3 Objective 14 
1.4 What is the need of these Spaces? 15 
 
UNIT II:  INTERLUDE 
 
CHAPTER II Research Work   
    2.1 Description of The Research Work  18  
  2.2 Web/ Literature Case Studies  19   
  2.3 Live Case Studies 26 
   
UNIT III:  CONCLUDE 
 
CHAPTER III Site Selection & Analysis 38 
3.1 Udaipur’s History 39 
3.2 Geography of Udaipur 40 
3.3 Udaipur as a Tourist Destination 41 
3.4 SWOT Analysis  43 
3.5 Concept & Design Philosophy  46   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

6
BIBLIOGRAPHY: 
 
(n.d.). Retrieved from 
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Fateh+Sagar+Lake/@24.6016326,73.6630766,15z/d
ata=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x3967e53c8c2ac0e3:0x797deb83de7b53b8!8m2!3d24.6013999!
4d73.6742232. 
 
http://tourism.gov.in/sites/default/files/Other/rajisthan.pdf. (n.d.). 
 
https://udaipurtimes.com/udaipur-stands-second-in-number-foreign-tourists/. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Ftravel-blog.waytoindia.com%
2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2FJag_Mandir.jpg&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Ftravel-blog.
waytoindia.com%2Fplaces-to-visit-in-udaipur%2F&docid=BuEsuift1VbZ4M&tbnid=I6TY
uhFbDsrljM%3A&vet=10a. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Lake+Pichola/@24.5719986,73.6614904,14z/data=!
3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x3967e56041553fe7:0xdfef96846886cdd0!8m2!3d24.572!4d73.679. 
(n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/maps?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&q=ahar+cenotaphs&um=1&
ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjxzJi6o5jfAhWKXysKHbTNB98Q_AUIDigB. (n.d.). 
https://www.google.co.in/maps?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&q=mahakaleshwar+temple
+udaipur&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj7z-6-oZjfAhUUdysKHTI6AycQ_AUIDyg
C. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=1553++udaipur&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source
=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_m8zl9ZffAhUEXisKHfUFA94Q_AUIDygC&biw=1
536&bih=763#imgdii=B_BpXJb28UUIHM:&imgrc=Sblr2chEYaaKgM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=1553++udaipur&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source
=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi_m8zl9ZffAhUEXisKHfUFA94Q_AUIDygC&biw=1
536&bih=763#imgdii=B_BpXJb28UUIHM:&imgrc=Sblr2chEYaaKgM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=city+squares&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source=l
nms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjT4-CZpJjfAhXBb30KHWcLATEQ_AUIDigB&biw=153
6&bih=763#imgrc=Rl6GxD2Fw0w_UM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=gulab+bagh&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source=ln
ms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi6oJuQmJjfAhWYWX0KHU0qAFUQ_AUIDygC&biw=15
36&bih=763&dpr=1.25#imgrc=K2u8yJjFneiTjM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=memorial+park&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source
=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwieyNSCo5jfAhWIXSsKHY13CDMQ_AUIDygC&biw=1
536&bih=763#imgrc=XCGoEJpNOlNVLM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=memorials&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source=ln
ms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjb7sbJopjfAhUGeCsKHVUSCGMQ_AUIDigB&biw=1536
&bih=763#imgdii=-Qc6bFVPkAoHLM:&imgrc=Ru7ql56ZHesuCM:. (n.d.). 

7
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=passive+recreation&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&sou
rce=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiFpJHt-5ffAhVbf30KHTabC3AQ_AUIDigB&biw=
1536&bih=763&dpr=1.25#imgrc=U54CF_ngE1S6PM:. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?q=sukhadia+circle&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&source
=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjSgZ2PpZjfAhUKfisKHeHpDakQ_AUIDygC&biw=15
36&bih=763&dpr=1.25#imgdii=AuBMSEg6aTFuoM:&imgrc=X-b3SYKFxz_sFM:. (n.d.). 
https://www.google.co.in/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&biw=1536&bih=763&tbm=
isch&sa=1&ei=FcYPXPalF9um9QPA0ol4&q=udaipur+geographical+map&oq=udaipur+geog
raphical+map&gs_l=img.3...12611.18926..19141...0.0..0.191.2305.0j15......1....1..gws-wiz-img...
....0j. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&biw=1536&bih=763&tbm=
isch&sa=1&ei=fL4PXJefNJL8rQHEwbCABw&q=lakefront+development+india&oq=lakefront
+&gs_l=img.3.0.35i39j0i67j0j0i67j0j0i67j0l2j0i67l2.33869.33869..36029...0.0..0.128.128.0j
1......1.. (n.d.). 
 
https://www.google.co.in/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN786IN786&tbm=isch&q=fateh+sagar
+lake&chips=q:fateh+sagar+lake,g_1:udaipur:t9GGfnaUZ8g%3D&usg=AI4_-kSOW45O7m
d7zK9o5qC0WOMuszytiA&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiI8qvAl5jfAhURcCsKHQ0FBQgQ4lYIKSgA&
biw=1536&bih=763&dpr=1.25#im. (n.d.). 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

8
List Of Figures 
 
Figure 1:  Waterfront Promenade  13 
Figure 2: View of Waterfront Trail 14 
Figure 3:  Waterfront Uses 17 
Figure 4:  Dubai Waterfront  18 
Figure 5:  Map of Tianjin City 20 
Figure 6:  Transformation pattern along the Haihe River 21 
Figure 7:  Three spatial sections along the Haihe River  21 
Figure 8: Land Use Plan 23 
Figure 9:  Circulation Plan 24 
Figure 10:  Evolution in 9 years 25 
Figure 11:  Built form updation from 2008 to 2010. 26 
Figure 12:  Development Photographs 27 
Figure 13:  Existing Water Activities and sitting  28 
Figure 14: Existing Promenade View  28 
Figure 15:  Existing Promenade View 29 
Figure 16: Existing Land Use Condition of Sabarmati  
and Surroundings 30 
Figure 17: From slum dwellings to apartments 31 
Figure 18: Market  32 
Figure 19: Development of Dhobi Ghat 33 
Figure 20: Event area after the development  33 
Figure 21: Development of Urban Forestry 34 
Figure 22: Development of Sewage System 35 
Figure 23: Promenade after Development  35 
Figure 24:  Development of Gardens  36  
Figure 25:  Genesis of the YRDP 37 
Figure 26 : Sub-Zones (Area, Extent, Length)    38   
Figure 27 :  Existing YRPD Promenade  39 
Figure 28 :  Existing Structure Plan for YRPD    40 
Figure 29:  Existing Garden Space after development  41 
Figure 30:  View of Udaipur Town in ancient times  43   
Figure31:  Geographical map of Udaipur    44  
Figure 32:  The most prominent tourist spot, City Palace    45  
Figure 33:  The tourist graph for year 2017  46  
Figure 34:  Graph 48
Figure 35:  Land Use plan upto year 2031 49 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 

9
UNIT I: PRELUDE 
 
INTRODUCTION  
 
1.1 Introduction to Waterfronts 
 
Development of a waterfront area with the aim of connecting and integrating the 
city with water. Waterfronts are settlements or civilizations or commercial 
developments that come up along the water body. Waterfronts are dynamic and 
unique places where the land and water meet. It is the interface of the aquatic and 
terrestrial. A waterfront zone is where interaction happens between the urban and 
the water. By being an interface between land and water, the waterfront zone is an 
area endowed with special characteristics. Waterfront is a zone of interaction and 
the waterfront area is considered to be a unique and irreplaceable resource where it 
interfaces between the land and water. 
 

Figure 1: Waterfront Promenade Activities 1 

 
Water is a defining force that fundamentally shapes the character of each place it 
touches. It's a feature to be celebrated and honoured. Urban waterfronts, like the 
cities help define, dynamic places. Waterfronts are often the most valuable 
resource of a city. Also cities seek a waterfront zone that is a place of public 
enjoyment, ample visual and public access- to both the water and the land. These 

1
 
https://www.google.com/search?q=waterfront&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN836IN836&source=lnms&t
bm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwim3oqgkLvjAhXz4nMBHVD9DzAQ_AUIESgC&biw=1366&bih=60
8#imgrc=gkulnAilSxZlZM: 

10
waterfronts have the potential to become the cultural and heritage hubs of the city 
that lie on the banks or shores of the waterfront as well as attract people from the 
city and also tourists. 
 
Over recent few decades, waterfront development and redevelopment has evolved 
and taken on its own identity in areas such as historic preservation and recreation. 
Creating minimum avenues for recreation and green open spaces. Also today many 
waterfronts are a staple of modernism, city beautification and helps in tourism. 
 

Figure 2: A View of the Waterfront Trail2 

 
1.2 Aim 
 
This thesis highlights those lessons and considers how to create a city's identity 
and also to understand and develop an approach towards waterfront city. 
Transforming it into a unique platform with recreational and entertainment 
facilities serving the city and its people. Also it Rejuvenate the urban life, by 
improving the quality of life. The idea is to create an economically vibrant and safe 
and inclusive waterfront providing the best social and physical infrastructure for 
its residents, businesses and visitors. Also, at developing the waterfront areas and 
to provide aesthetically pleasing and highly functional spaces and activities that 
encourages the city dwellers to experience the beauty and serenity of the 
waterfront. The thesis focuses on creating a vital and vibrant waterfront that 

2
 
https://www.google.com/search?q=waterfront+tourism&rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN836IN836&source
=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj9jfG-jrvjAhWc6nMBHTuxC0IQ_AUIECgB&biw=1366&bih
=657#imgrc=Bzm56OE_9JKqfM: 

11
serves to unite the community and the visitors in a shared experience of the city. It 
develops the city as a major commercial and tourist sector. Establish it as a major 
tourism attraction centre and a local identity. Link the community with the 
waterfront. Integrate public open spaces with more natural water edge, landscapes, 
parks.  
 
1.3 Objective 
 
A wide variety of people and interests are involved in waterfront development, and 
understanding these interests and planning for them can only help in the 
successful implementation of a waterfront project. There are many important 
reasons to develop new, and re-develop existing, waterfronts. Waterfronts are 
places to live, places to work, and places we enjoy recreating. People all over the 
world have been living with water for millennia, as a source of food, 
transportation, and harmony. In recent years, managing water has become a major 
political and social topic because of climatic events that have caught a lot of media 
attention. People have been questioning whether waterfront property should be 
promoted as a place to live, or whether giant walls should be built to protect people 
from advancing water levels anticipated by climate change experts. 
 

 
  
To demonstrate the significance of waterfront, in the classic phrase, American 
anthropologist Loren Eiseley said, “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in 
water, water is a fundamental attraction in all cultures”. 
 
This study deals with the waterfront developments through the perspective of 
tourism and recreation and investigates the waterfront development through the 
available research examples in the world to formulate the design criteria as a 
theory of urban waterfront design. 
 
 
 

12
 1.3 What is the need of these Spaces?  
 
Waterfront development can include any combination of different land uses, and 
waterfront projects can be new projects or re-developments of existing 
waterfronts into new places. Some waterfront projects focus on industrial uses, 
such as industrial ports, and others focus on more recreational and 
tourism-oriented uses. It's important that a diversity of uses can occur along a 
waterfront, bringing in as many interests as possible to the waterfront, but it's not 
necessary that a diversity of uses occurs within each project. For example, due to 
environmental, public safety and security reasons, it may not be appropriate to 
locate a public park and residential neighbourhood within the same zone as an 
industrial port. 
 

Figure 3: Waterfront Uses  

 
The waterfront development is needed as it promotes the waterfront activities at 
strategic locations with major water views and create activity nodes and 
destinations where possible. Thus also providing diversified opportunities for 
different functions and promoting the waterfront front vitality both day and night. 
The importance it holds in maximizing the amenity value of sites with good natural 
settings by promoting mixed use development with public oriented activity and 
creating focal points and activities nodes. It also promote retailing and leisure 
activities to the water edge. Promote integration of waterfront recreation areas 
with adjoining land uses in terms of pedestrian, access and landscape design 
frameworks. by building a Sense of Place. The need of waterfront is essential to 
protect the waterfronts historic values and it’s significant historical structures and 
landmarks which should always be preserved or conserved. 
 
 
 

13
Figure 4: Dubai Waterfront3 
 
 
Any building on the waterfront should boost activity in the public spaces around it. 
Ideally, there should be a mix of uses, with seamless interaction between inside 
and outdoors. High-rise towers that lack any public uses on the ground floor are 
noticeably out of place along rivers, lakes and ocean fronts. They usually create a 
wall that physically and psychologically cuts off the waterfront from surrounding 
neighborhoods. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

3
 
https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1CHBF_enIN836IN836&biw=1366&bih=657&tbm=isch
&sa=1&ei=Kbg_XYnxDs_orQHG1JPoCQ&q=waterfront+city&oq=waterfront+city&gs_l=img.3..
0l10.25208.28706..28830...1.0..0.341.1270.0j5j1j1......0....1..gws-wiz-img.......0i10i24j0i8i30j0i24.yg08
g9WdkOw&ved=0ahUKEwjJqc2-2NvjAhVPdCsKHUbqBJ0Q4dUDCAY&uact=5#imgdii=ahEZwd
YCXcf5FM:&imgrc=2YGRWcg6DuaPBM: 

14
UNIT II: INTERLUDE 
 
 
RESEARCH WORK 
 
2.1 Description of the Research Work  
 
In general, the research involved three kinds of works. Through review of 
literature, a study was done on what identity means with respect to cities and how 
rivers, lakes contribute to this identity especially in lakes cities. The literature 
survey further developed an understanding of the relationship between lakes and 
cities, north historically and in modern times. Apart from this, the literature review 
included a study of various aspects that should be taken into account while 
designing a public space.  
 
The next step involved of this relationship through secondary case studies and 
understanding the reasons which triggered the lakefront projects. It also involved 
key features of those lakefront development projects. 
The features of each case study were analysed and tabulated. A set of indicators was 
developed based on three things: key features of the case studies, the points which 
were essential to maintain the water- city relationship and the elements of a good 
public space.  
 
The primary case study involved of history of Sabarmati and Yamuna and the role 
Yamuna played in the identity an evolution of the city. It included the current DUAC 
Yamuna Riverfront Development Plan and involved a study of key features of the 
project. The report is analysed with respect to previously formed framework.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

15
 2.2 Web/ Literature Case Studies  
 
TIANJIN HAIHE RIVERFRONT 
 
One of the largest coastal cities in North China, with a population of over eleven 
million. The city is located along the Haihe River which has a history of over six 
hundred-years. The development plan included capabilities for flood control, 
navigation, tourism and entertainment. “Building the river as an economic, 
landscape and cultural belt with unique character, and putting forward a great 
vision of extolling the river culture and creating Haihe as one of the world's most 
famous rivers".  
 
 

 
Figure 5: Map of Tianjin City 

Figure 6: Transformation pattern of urban morphology along the Haihe River 

 
 

16
Figure 7: Three spatial sections along the Haihe River 
 
 

Table 1: Planning intentions of three spatial sections 

 
 
The Six thematic objectives of the Riverfront Development:  
 
1)  Present the longstanding history and culture of the city. 
2)  Promote service industries in the waterfront area. 
3)  Identify city features and images by the river. 
4)  Protect the ecological environment within the area. 
5)  Improve access to the river. 
6)  Develop tourism and leisure industries along the river. 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 

17
  
Figure 8: Land Use Plan  
 
Redeveloping the Riverfront includes the change of existing Land-use which 
comprises of Old factories and aging residential communities which needs to be 
demolished and should be replaced with Large parcels of land earmarked for mixed 
use or commercial purposes. 
 
 
 
 
 
 

18
  
Figure 9: Circulation Plan  
 
● No physical barrier between the water and inland area. 
● Slopes added for people with disabilities. 
● Old railway station at the riverfront in the city center reorganised into a 
transport hub, with better access to the underground, subway systems and 
bus services. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

19
Urban fabric  
 

Figure 10 : Evolution in 9 years  

 
● Dramatically changed after the redevelopment. 
● Old low-rise and dense housing units replaced by clusters of high-rise 
residential communities with commercial facilities. 
 
Built Form 
 
● Visibility, permeability, and openness maintained. 
● Waterfront is open and visible from a distance, and with several skyscrapers 
becoming new landmarks related to the riverfront, a new skyline has now 
been created. 
● Planting design for achieving a visual effect in riverfront. 
● Water Activities like swimming, fishing, or sight-seeing by boat. Other 
non-water related, like general parks or other public open spaces.  

Figure 11: Built form updation from 2008 to 2010.  

20
 
 

Figure 12: Development Photographs  

Figure 13 : Existing Water Activities and sitting 

21
 

Figure 14 : Existing Promenade View  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

22
 2.3 Live Case Studies  
 
SABARMATI RIVERFRONT DEVELOPMENT 
  
The Sabarmati River Front Development Corporation Limited (SRFDCL) is 
established in 1997 for the development of the riverfront in the city. (1) SRFDCL 
reached out to a number of NGOs and citizen groups for planning and 
implementation. The process of implementation was done by build, maintain, 
operate and transfer. SRFDCL appointed Independent Third Parties to supervise the 
private sector contractors who were selected on fixed time and rate. The fund for 
the project is set out by different sources that are equity capital, loan fund and 
proceeds from land sales.  
 
 

Figure 15 : Existing Sabarmati Top View. 

 
Riverfront Land Use 
 
The proposed development is of mix land use that includes commercial, 
recreational and residential developments within the both sides of the river bank 
from Gandhi Bridge to Sardar Bridge. 

23
Table 2 : Existing Land Use of Sabarmati Riverfront   
 
 

Figure 16 : Existing Land Use Condition of Sabarmati and Surroundings  

 
 
The river originates from the foothills of Aravali ranges near Udaipur, Rajasthan 
and flows downstream passing through Ahmedabad till Gulf of Cambay. The 109 
kms of river runs across a stretch of about 55 km through Ahmedabad. It is that 
stretch that is developed as ambitious urban renewal project.  
 
 
 
 

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Development in Different Sector 
The major component of the project concludes and reclamation works, construction of 
road and installation of infrastructure such as water, sewer network, storm water 
drainage, etc., resettlement and rehabilitation work, construction of promenades and 
garden and maintenance of public spaces. 
 
Rehabilitation of Slum Dwellers 
 
There were around 12000 hutments on both sides of the river bank that cover 
nearly 20% of the critical project area. More than 10000 families are allotted with 
houses for resettlement, and 9078 odd families have already been shifted. Each 
house is of 26.77 sq m carpet area. Commonly the relocation of a slum is provided 
on the outskirts of the city, but in this case, it is located near to the prime location 
of the city. 
 

Figure 17 : From slum dwellings to apartments.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Gujari Bazar - Sunday Market 
 
It is an age-old Sunday market, where 40% of traders were women and half of 
them describe themselves as Dalits. It was unhygienic and also there is a risk of 
flooding in monsoon. Now, it is spread over 70.00 sq.mt area, and 1600 vendors can 
do their business on 788 pucca platforms and 783 laris.

Figure 18 : From scattered unorganized Sunday market to Organized spaces for 

Vendors now.  
 
Dhobi Ghat  
 
Around 172 Dhobis were using both the bank of the river for washing activities. On 
the eastern bank of the river near Vasna Barrage is constructed as dhobi ghat 
spread over approx. 9400 sq.mt area has utility area of about 600 sq.mt. There are 
seven blocks in modern Dhobi Ghat, and each block has 24 units with 
well-developed water supply and drainage system with a water meter for inlet 
watering. 

Figure 19 : Development of Dhobi Ghat. 

 
 
 
 
 
 

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Event Area  
 
Earlier the dry river bed was used to host events like circus and cricket etc. 
However, a mega city like Ahmedabad requires a proper event management ground 
facilities. So that an area of 60.00 aq.mt, spread between Sardar Bridge and Ellis 
Bridge on the west bank has been designed for hosting events such as the Kite 
Festival, the Marathon, the Cyclothon and Garib Kalyan Mela are organized. 

Figure 20 : Event area after the development.  

 
Urban Forestry  
 
Between Vasna Barrage and Ambedkar Bridge, the unique afforestation project is 
situated over 1 lakh sq.mt area. The natural forestry is being developed with 
different plant species from Gujarat, including certain very rare species. 
 
 

Figure 21 : Development of Urban Forestry  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Sewage System 
 
To intercept the sewer running into the river and divert it to the treatment plants, 
the interceptor sewer system was constructed. Earlier the sewage from 36 drainage 
points directly falls into the river that makes the water dirty, mosquito ridden and 
unhealthy environment. Now, there is an extreme change in the environment 
around the river because all sewage goes to a pumping station for transformation it 
to river quality. 

Figure 22 : Development of Sewage System 

 
Promenade 
  
A key feature of this project is a two-level, continuous walk on both sides of the 
river bank built just above the water level for pedestrians and cyclists. So there will 
be no private ownership of river bank, and the whole stretch is open for every 
citizen. 

Figure 23 : Promenade after Development  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Public Garden/ Flower Garden 
 
For parks and garden space 27% of project land is developed. There are three 
gardens. 
● Garden of 60000 sq.mt between Subhash Bridge and Dadhichi Bridge; 
● Garden of 25000 sq.mt at Usmanpura between Gandhi Bridge and Nehru 
Bridge on the West Bank and Flower garden of 40000 sq.mt near event area 
on the west bank of the river. 
 

Figure 24 : Development of Gardens 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Concluding Remark 
 
The abused river can be brought back to the city by utilizing the resources of the river 
itself and convert the abandoned land of riverbed and nuisances at the centre of the city 
into people's attraction, tourist attraction, creation of infrastructural and recreational 
facilities and transform the city more livable in terms of environmental improvement 
and inclusive development. 
 
 
 
 
 

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Y
​ AMUNA RIVERFRONT DEVELOPMENT PROJECT (YRDP) 
 
● DDA’s initiative of Biodiversity Parks in collaboration with the Center for 
Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems (CEMDE), Delhi 
University. 
● Justice Usha Mehra Committee constituted to remove Jhuggies & other 
encroachments from the River Bed. 
● Following the orders, DDA proposed Golden Jubilee Parks Approval from 
Central Water Commission for Golden Jubilee Park. 
● Constitution of Delhi Biodiversity Foundation by Gazette Notification dated 
01.04.2005. 
● High Court Order for 13 enclosures to be made for disposing Puja Samgiri in 
the river. 
● Embargo on any construction activity by office of Hon’ble LG on Zone ‘O’ till 
detail studies are done. 
● Yamuna Riverfront Development Project Launched. 
● Structure Plan for Zone O was put up for inviting objections & suggestions. 
● Structure Plan sought approvals from Delhi Biodiversity Foundation & High 
Powered Committee. 
● ZDP for Zone O notified with proposals for Riverfront Development. 

Figure 25 : Genesis of the Yamuna Riverfront Development Project (YRDP) 

 
Zonal Development Plan, Zone - O 

Figure 26 : Sub-Zones (Area, Extent, Length) 

 
 
 

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Recommendations of MPD,2021 & ZDP, Zone O 
 
● River Yamuna should be conserved & kept free from unrestricted & 
unplanned urban development. 
● ZDP has proposed strategies for Sustainable Riverfront Development. 
● Strategy for Conservation / Development of Yamuna riverbed area is needed 
to be developed & implemented in a systematic manner.  
 
 
Aim  
 
“Conserve, Protect & Restore the Biodiversity of Yamuna integrated with Public 
Recreation spaces that the city needs as envisaged in the Zonal Development of 
Zone O”. 
 

Figure 27 : Existing YRPD Promenade  

 
The Structure Plan 
 
The floodplain has been studied & analysed based on several ecological & physical 
parameters, such as: 
● existing natural features like water bodies, vegetation, etc., 
● proximity to habitation & movement corridors, 
● intensity & conformity of abutting activities, & 
● socio-cultural characteristics 
 
 
 

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Figure 28 : Existing Structure Plan for YRPD  

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Figure 29: Existing Garden Space after development  
 
 

 
Green Linkages- Interconnecting all zones are Green Linkages which will act as wildlife 
movement corridor & provide habitat while providing a buffer to sensitive Biodiversity 
areas. 
 
All these Zones are Open to Sly Green Areas.  
 
 
 
 
 
 

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UNIT III: CONCLUDE 
 
SITE SELECTION & ANALYSIS 
 
3.1 Udaipur’s Background 
 
The royal city of Udaipur being the capital of Mewar for several centuries. The city 
has a legend behind its establishment. Once during his hunting expedition, 
Maharana Udai Singh met a holy sage in the Aravalli ranges. The sage directed the 
king to create a kingdom in this fertile valley, which would be protected by the 
high-rising Aravalli. Consequently, Maharana Udai Sing established Udaipur in 
1553 AD. 
 
Chittorgarh was the former capital of Mewar Kingdom and Maharana Udai Singh 
was the successor of the Sisodia clan, as say the descendants of the Sun God, who 
believed themselves to be the world’s oldest ruling family. The kings and the 
members of this dynasty were known to be the most powerful warrior clan in 
Rajasthan. Therefore, the capital was also moved to Udaipur from Chittorgarh, 
because of constant enemy attacks. 
 
The Mughal Emperor attacked Chittor in the year 1568, and to keep away from his 
clutches, Udai Singh shifted his kingdom to Udaipur, which was a safer place. It 
was since that time that Udaipur got transformation modern city. 
Overlooking the aquamarine expanses of the Lake Pichola stands the splendid City 
Palace - a marvel in granite and marble. Out of the original eleven gates of the 
Udaipur City, only five still remain. For the safety of the new capital the king built a 
wall with a length of 6 km with its main gates in it namely – Brahmpole, 
Ambapole, Hathipole, Udiapole, Chandpole, Surajpole. The area that resides in the 
wall is now commonly referred as ‘The Old City’ or ‘The Walled City’. The British 
didn’t show their much interest in acquiring Udaipur because it was a mountainous 
region which made it difficult for their army to carry heavy armoured horses and 
weapons. On the eastern side of the city, the periphery has a Surajpole or Sun Gate 
which is the main on entrance to the city. Udaipur being the city of dawn, and a 
lovely land around the azure water lakes, hemmed in by the lush hills of the 
Aravalli hills. Udaipur is a fascinating mixture of sights, sounds and experiences. 
Its kaleidoscope of fairy-tale palaces, lakes, temples, gardens and narrow lanes 
strewn with stalls, carry the flavour of heroic past, epitomizing valour and chivalry. 
 

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Figure 30: View of Udaipur Town in ancient times 
 
3.2 Udaipur’s Geography 
 
Udaipur lying in the shadows of the Aravalli Mountains, at a height of 577m. The 
walled city is surrounded by the city wall, on the eastern side of Lake Pichola. The 
train station and bus station are both at vicinity to the old city. Udaipur is located at 
24.58° N 73.68° E. Udaipur being with an average elevation of 598 meters (1961 
feet). 

 
Figure31: Geographical map of Udaipur 

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In the state of Rajasthan, and at the foothills of Aravalli hills is located Udaipur city. 
The city of lakes Udaipur lies in southern Rajasthan. Udaipur can cater its tourists 
with its enchanting view of the lakes, temples, cafes and restaurants, also 
sparkling view of the spotless white palaces, it's interesting historic background, 
and unique rural handicrafts. Though Udaipur has some fascinating features which 
can appear captivating for any outsider, the weather of Udaipur is not quite 
favourable all over the year. Therefore, the lakes encircling the city of Udaipur 
make the climate somewhat comfortable and pleasant during the summer season. 
The summer is very hot and rainfall is scarce which is not favourable for a pleasant 
holiday in Udaipur. 
 
3.3 Udaipur as a Tourist Destination  
 
Udaipur is one of the most popular cities in Rajasthan, and is quite famous for its 
lakes and palaces. Also, known as the ‘Jewel of Mewar’, in 1553 this city was 
founded by Maharaja Udai Signh, on the banks of Lake Pichola. Udaipur is claimed 
as one of the most romantic cities of the world and mini Venice. 
 

Figure 32: The most prominent tourist spot, City Palace. 

 
Udaipur today, it is a perfect mixture of old-world charm and contemporary 
attractions. Every year, in abundance tourists visit the ‘City of Lakes’ Udaipur, by 
getting enchanted from its vibrant culture and traditional customs. It is still 
inhabited by the local people of Bhil tribe, so we can still see people dressed in 

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traditional Ghagra-Choli, laden with huge silver jewellery. People of all different 
religion- Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism and Christianity reside here. The modern city 
of Udaipur is a vivid hub of social- cultural activities, art, music and folk dance. 
While living in Udaipur one can see both kinds of people- those following their 
age-old traditions and also those who have adopted a modern style of living. The 
city plays as a host to a number of fairs and festivals of the country. Udaipur Stands 
Second in The Number of Foreign Tourists in Rajasthan. 
 

Figure 33: The tourist graph for year 2017. 

 
As compared to 2016 annual chart of tourist ratio in city, there was an increase of 
10 percent in data of foreign tourists. As per the tourism department, tourists from 
French and America have increased in numbers in 2017. Whereas in Rajasthan, 
tourists from French outnumbered all other tourists in 2017. On number three we 
have American tourists in the increasing list of tourists. Consequently, in this 7th 
year, it is growth for Udaipur that foreign tourist numbers were seen going high. 
Udaipur stands at number second in the year 2017 after Jaipur which stands with 
the highest number of foreign tourists. Jaipur with a number of 9,50,991 foreign 
tourists whereas Udaipur had 3,47,542 foreign tourists. Jodhpur stood 3rd with 
1,69,264 foreign tourists. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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 3.4 SWOT Analysis 
 
This study is about the phenomenon of urban planning processes. The 
methodological approach is qualitative research. The data collection relies on live 
case studies, interviews and a time graph analysis of different places at different 
peak time. The time graph along with age graph are based on their experience of 
age or participation in the type of activities, involvement in different urban spaces, 
footfall of different spaces, with the analysis of interest and opposition against the 
urban project. The theoretical literature and the planning typology are analysed 
through the theoretical framework of past, present and future scope. 
 
This process resulted in identifying the Opportunities, Threats, Strengths and 
Weaknesses of each case study conducted. Which in turn resulted in the conclusion 
that, based on the study’s main findings and recommendations. 
 
As per the live case studies and analysing interests of local as well as tourist public 
in Udaipur City, I was able to conclude that the tourists especially like to be in the 
Walled City area and are fond of exploring the traditional, heritage architecture & 
culture of the city. Instead, there is a bunch of local residents of Udaipur City who 
consider accessibility as a priority and then the “View”. 
 
Also, there is another graph to show that annually in the city of Lakes more than 2 
lacs people come and go, and all have their own preferences, likings, and 
comfortability through which they explore the Udaipur City. 

Figure 34: Graph showing annual tourist graph in Udaipur as per their population 
and preference list. Here, the population is the annual tourist count from 

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respective countries and preferences mean that where they choose to 
accommodate (i.e., choice of hotels) themselves for a stay in the city. 
 
This particular table here exhibits that how being at the maximum population i.e., 
London and Italy tourists arrive in city, and prefer the Walled City for their 
accommodation and exploration. Tourist from Australia and Germany will 
prioritize access first and then view. Here, of course they will be in the vicinity to 
Old city but will not choose a hotel where accessibility is an issue. Moving on to 
Indian Tourists, which is majorly from Gujarat & Kolkata, they have a different 
taste from foreign tourists. India, the whole country itself celebrates this 
traditional architecture and inherits the old ‘Gali’ or let’s say narrow passage 
concept in almost all Indian States, so for them the Walled City is not that 
something really WOWS! 
 
So, they find resorts or a hotel at outskirts from Walled city because they don’t 
want to get into the hustle bustle and crowded streets with jams, animals and 
shops on both hands. Rather they try to focus on serenity while booking their 
accommodations. 
 
 

Figure 35: Land Use plan upto year 2031 

 
 
 
 

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Urban open space - both magnitude and spatial arrangement - is critical to urban 
living. As the availability of open space, distribution and accessibility are a major 
concern for cities. Open space is a necessity and not a luxury. 
 
Due to ongoing urbanisation trend worldwide, the distance between city 
inhabitants and nature is increasing. Urban greenery is one of the ways to bridge 
this gap between people and nature. With the growth of urban sprawl or the 
migration the increase in density is one of the reasons for underdevelopment of 
urban greenery sector. Without careful planning, cities will be stressed with 
environmental challenges.  
 
As we have found out in the case studies that the geography of all these urban spaces is 
more towards western side of Udaipur city, as compared to it as a whole. Open space is a 
basic type of land use along with residential, commercial, industrial, transportation etc. 
Other than open space, the rest are given due importance for progress and it is neglected 
because it caters to natural, recreational and cultural needs that are intangible. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3.5 Concept & Design Philosophy 

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“M A K E I N V I S I B L E V I S I B L E” 
 
The purpose of this thesis is to study how lakes contribute in respect to identity of 
a city.  
The idea is to create an economically vibrant and safe and inclusive waterfront 
providing the best social and physical infrastructure for it’s neighborhood 
residences, business tourists, recreational tourists and local visitors.  
Also, at developing the waterfront areas by treating the catchment area and to 
provide aesthetically pleasing and highly functional spaces and activities that 
encourages the city dwellers to experience the beauty and serenity of the 
waterfront. Creating a vital waterfront that serves to unite the community and the 
visitors in a shared experience of the city.  
 
The concept M ​ ake Invisible Visible​ says to highlight the unseen neglected spaces 
of the city. According to the guidelines, a development close to river/ lake area 
would not increase the level of water flow. Demonstrating the connection between 
access, greenway development and market demand.  
 
Recommendations and Findings 
 
Waterfront & Green areas -based solutions supply innovative approaches to extend 
the standard of urban settings. It enhances local resilience and promote 
sustainable lifestyles, improving both the health and the well-being of urban 
residents. Parks, playgrounds or vegetation publicly and personal places are a unit 
central part of these approaches and may felicitate to make sure that: 
 
● urban residents have adequate opportunities for exposure to nature; 
● urban biodiversity is maintained and protected; 
● environmental hazards such as air pollution or noise are reduced; 
● the impacts of extreme weather events (heatwaves, extreme rainfall or 
flooding) are mitigated; 
● the quality of urban living is enhanced; 
● the health and well-being of residents is improved. 
 
Urban inexperienced area could be a part of “green infrastructure”. It is a vital part 
of public open areas and customary services provided by a town and may function 
as a health-promoting setting for all members of the urban community. It is thus 
compulsory to make sure that all urban, open or public green spaces are easily 
accessible for all age groups and distributed equitably within the city. 
Land use planning is central for managing issues related to climatic variation in 
urban environments. However, Master Plans usually do not include climatic 
aspects, and few studies have addressed climate change at the urban scale, 
especially in developing countries. 

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This report proposes a framework with the thesis and live case studies helping & 
concluding the more and more placement of urban space at one part of the city and 
ignoring the rest of it. 
 
Each category comprises attributes that describe a complex of relationships in 
influencing amenities for local public as well as the tourists. Proper land use 
planning provides the opportunity to assess where you are, where you would like to 
go and how you might get there. 
 
Planning now to protect important open space and recreational facilities can 
greatly enhance the attractiveness of your community and encourage compatible 
growth in the future. Also, planning accordingly helps allowing the City to confront 
and manage aspects of growth and development in ways that preserve, protect, and 
enhance the environment.  
 
The urban planning process in relation with equitable open space relationship can 
expose potential problems while there is still time to prevent them. Open space 
plans allow the benefits of open space that make up the character and protects the 
"green infrastructure" of a community. With the help of planning the spaces wisely 
this "green infrastructure" of water supply, land, working farms and forests, viable 
wildlife habitats, parks, recreation areas, trails, and greenways is as important to 
the economic future of a community as coming up with for planning for schools, 
roads, water, and wastewater infrastructure. 
 
Although open area itself could be an easy concept, the factors that have an effect 
on it, which affects, are complex. Through an Open Space Plan, one can identify 
and examine these factors and lay out strategies for residents and can use to 
protect and enjoy its character, natural resources and open spaces. 
 
Consequently, these findings form a replacement approach to the difficulty of patterns of 
spatial use of public spaces, based on the global understanding of the dynamics of the 
urban grid and the visual and the permeability connections between public space and 
the urban environment. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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