Heritage needs protection

Heritage needs protection

Change, while inevitable, shouldn't swallow the rich history and culture of bangalore

Vaishalli Chandra. Bangalore



Whether it's enjoying a stroll in Lalbagh or buying that silk saree in Chikpet, these are places that exude the old world charm that defines Bangalore even today.
And with the snazzy, chic looking glass buildings coming up in every corner of the IT city, it has become even more imperative to protect the heritage sites. "There is a need to identify areas that have historical significance," said Pankaj Modi, a conservation architect and volunteer with UDBHAVA and INTACH.
Currently there are only two protected monuments – Bangalore Fort and Tippu's summer palace. But it is not just the monuments, but significant areas in the city that should be given the heritage status.
Places like Chickpet or Gavipuram are areas of high heritage value, since most of these places were part of the Old Bangalore.
Again parks and gardens like Lalbagh or Cubbon Park are not mere lung spaces for the city. They have stood the test of time even when the whole face of the city has undergone a change.
There is an immediate need to go from macro to micro, said Pankaj. First, there is a need to identify historical pockets and then narrow down on individual or groups of buildings.
After identification, there is a need for proper legislation. Pankaj pointed out that the city's Town and country planning act needs to be amended. "It currently, does not provide any regulation or guideline to protect such places," he said.
Other cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai have legislations that protect the interest of heritage spaces and buildings. Those can be studied and incorporated after public debate, suggested Pankaj.
While it is the responsibility of the urban development authorities in the state to ensure that local heritage is protected, there is no such provision in place in the city.
With a regulation in place, places like Gavipuram can be protected.
"For instance, if there is roads need to be widened in an area like Malleswaram, it can be done keeping the aesthetics of the place intact," he said, adding that for this to happen laws need to be in place.
This will also ensure that these sites are saved from demolition. Right now, with no laws in place, several places have been demolished.
Once special development guidelines are in place, it would be easier to preserve these heritage areas as any change will have to be approved by the heritage committee. Even changes in the structures will be controlled. "The conservation approach is such that while it allows development to take place, the character of the place is also retained at the same time."