Abstract:
In these modern days, planners have failed to cope with the challenges of
the expanding urban areas. With the increase in rate of urbanization in developing
countries, urban areas are left with residual spaces that can be utilized or can be
assigned with a particular function to restore homogeneity within the urban area.
Lost spaces are abandoned spaces that lie between urban areas which are either
under-utilized or which have not been assigned to any current function. These
residual spaces are located in several cities and other rapidly growing towns in
various parts of India.
In this study we shall explore the urban space of Bhopal and identify the lost
gaps between the urban areas. The steps for the identification and redesigning of
lost spaces have been mentioned by Roger Trancik in his book “Finding lost
space”. The study includes the analysis of the three theories of urban design such
as figure ground theory, linkage theory and place theory and the application of
these theories to study the lost spaces of Bhopal spaces and redesign them to
create a positive impact on the environment. Bhopal is one of the greenest cities
in India and known for its artificial lakes but it is still haunted with a dark past after
which the city is known worldwide. But in the recent decades the city has developed
rapidly which has brought a gap between the old city and the new city. The new
city is a carefully planned region that promoted not only new investments but also
a sense of security and belongingness to the people whereas the old city remains
congested and densely packed. Since Bhopal is rich in culture, its transformation
has created an impact on the social and cultural aspects, network linkages and
building functions. This study helps to understand the socio-economic character of
lost spaces and its further analysis to explore the maximum possibilities to which it
can be utilized. As these lost spaces remain untouched and abandoned, these can
be revived though innovative uses and brought back to life.
