Unseen boundries : lost communities

Abstract

This thesis embarks on an exploratory study of the Turbhe abandoned quarry site in Mumbai, with a primary focus on addressing the complicated challenges and opportunities that have raised from decades of quarrying activities in the Turbhe-Belapur belt. These activities have had deep adverse impacts on both the local ecology and the surrounding community. The core objective of this project is to conceptualize and execute a comprehensive revitalization plan for the Turbhe quarry site, taking into careful consideration the intricate web of stakeholders that have been affected by the quarry's abandonment. The selected quarry site presents a unique advantage - its strategic location. Situated alongside a key road and in proximity to the largest slum cluster in the area, it has the potential to serve as a catalyst for positive change in a densely populated urban environment. These challenges include environmental degradation, safety hazards, and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The unfilled quarry pits have become breeding grounds for pollution and stagnant water, posing a health risk to the local community. Furthermore, the lack of anagement strategy has allowed for unauthorized waste dumping, thereby exacerbating pollution concerns. In this context, the project's area program is thoughtfully designed to mitigate these challenges and transform the Turbhe quarry site into a beacon of sustainable development. It places a significant emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that the diverse needs of the community are addressed comprehensively. Key components of the project include the creation of employment opportunities for women and youth, the establishment of community-inclusive spaces, the provision of basic health services, and the introduction of various amenities such as public restrooms, retail stores, vocational training facilities, and communal areas. The project's vision revolves around achieving mutual benefits for all stakeholders. By reimagining the Turbhe quarry site as a thriving and sustainable community hub, this initiative aims to restore the local ecology, uplift the socio-economic conditions of the affected community, and illustrate the transformative power of responsible land management. It is a demonstration to the potential for abandoned quarry sites to evolve into resilient, vibrant, and harmonious urban spaces.