INTEGRATED CONSERVATION OF CHIRAG DELHI - A HISTORIC URBAN VILLAGE

Abstract

General Introduction Until the 1940s few countries in the world appreciated the value of their older areas. In Europe, conservation was limited to concern for historical buildings of special importance, usually castles, churches, museums, & other significant public buildings. Attention was focused on individual buildings only - without considering the surroundings. During second world war, the mass destruction provided a muc'l great awareness of the unique character of the older areas & people started to understand the need to treat them sensitively & constructively. After lots of misconceptions & 'bulldozer' approach the ideas of urban It)e, rehabilitation and on integrated conservation has emerged. This does not mean L d'NA X.9)(v:A:ftf tat, the passive protection of an individual historical building or the complete protection of everything which is old. Rather, it means creative use of older area. Where possible, old buildings are repaired & modernised, to facilitate their continued use, especially as housing. There after includes upgrading of infrastructure services on a modest scale so that the existing urbanistic pattern & fabric is preserved. Demolition should normally be reserved for structurally unsold buildings, but may also be sometimes needed in order to provide space for ft.4M. essential social services, infrastructure or open space. Displacement of existing residents should be minimised. Modernisation should take place in such a way that life style of the community improves considerably while tangibles and intangibles are preserved.