Conserving the historic streetscape within the central zone of Surat

Abstract

Entrepreneurship and cultural variety are celebrated in Surat. On the banks of the Tapi River, this location is sometimes referred to as “Suryapur”. Understanding the geographical characteristics that have influenced Surat's setting, position, and development is necessary to comprehend the city as a commerce hub. Surat has been known as one of the most flourishing port towns during the maritime trade. During the period of 16th – 18th CE, city of Surat was the leading port and one of the most significant commercial centres. It had a cosmopolitan set of merchants who engaged in extensive trade with a great variety of world regions. The former trading center, Rander was across the river and more exposed to the ocean. It was constantly attacked by Portuguese. Surat was established as a new town and a hub for the trading community as a result of this. Over time, it was home to traders, merchants, and other people from other cultures, which resulted in a fusion of social and architectural morphology. Thus, a global society developed, leading to a hybrid architectural style that is still evident in the current environment1 . The historic fabric of the city has an inner and outer wall with various gates (which no more exist), fort, road networks, markets, residential pockets, trading offices. British, Portuguese, French, Arabian, Muslims, Jains, Persian, and many other traders settled in the precinct. Their characteristics are well portrayed through the architectural expressions on building facades and spatial planning. The area of study focuses on one of the most prominent street named as „Chauta Bazaar Road‟ situated in the inner city of Surat. This is a 1km long stretch, dates back to 1700s. It covers 3 administrative wards 8, 9 and 10. Historically evolved market street starts with retail shops (of cloths, groceries, jewelry, accessories etc), eateries, pedestrian sellers, etc, leads to a node named as „Subhash Chowk‟ with grand residences and further leads to a wholesome residential stretch. The unique character of this street is the distinguishable variety of functions. During this time period, an understanding of streetscape which includes buildings, ownership, characteristics, architecture, use, original and transformed function will be established. This will cater to the analysis of physical attributes, typologies, spatial planning, condition etc. A significance of built, social and economic character of the street will be developed through the process in order to carry out the significance for the need of conservation. The approach to conservation starts with listing of buildings, mapping of street infrastructure, addressing urban issues and developing a manual/guidelines..