INTEGRATED REVITALIZATION OF 10 THE WALLED TOWN OF DIU

Abstract

Historic Indian cities have unique built and cultural heritage which has always attracted millions of tourists and has also been one of the prime sources of economic activities. But the condition of historic core city areas and heritage precincts over the years has been degrading consistently. Not only are the conditions of heritage structures deteriorating but the quality of living environment and infrastructure in the core districts have been degrading and resulting in lowering growth rates and poor economy. Today cities hence have a major challenge of building sustainable development practices that integrates their cultural heritage and future aspirations. It is imperative to link cultural heritage, city development planning and local economy development together for inclusive development. The historic walled city of Diu, located at the east end of the Union territoly of Diu in western India, documenting continuity of settlements and culture since 1500 BCE, is one of the most unique destinations showing exemplary natural, architectural, expressions of colonial and traditional Indian culture blended with magnificent structures, spaces and people. The Diu fort, in-numerous heritage monuments and Diu beach area are all part of the cities heritage glory and form major parts of the local traditions. These landmarks not only attract millions of tourists, but most importantly are an integral part of local community fabric. But uncontrolled growth, coupled with poor governance and lack of awareness has resulted in utter neglect and degradation of the historic sites and core city. Due to deteriorating quality of neighbourhood and lack of economic opportunities there has been a shift of residential preference from the Diu town area to other parts of the state, country and world. This research intends to analyse the existing urban fabric in the Diu walled city, the use and present state of decay of the historic sites and monuments. Contextual attributes in the form of development dynamics and obsolescence will be assessed in-order to understand the changing heritage and tourism aspects. Analysis will be carried out to understand the linkage between heritage and local economy in-order to assess the impact of heritage - revitalization. The study will make sincere attempts to propose framework for revitalization of historic areas of the Diu town through various methods and approaches such as functional restructuring, activity diversification and functional regeneration etc.