Blue–Green Infrastructure as a Stimulant of Growth: Case of Ahmedabad

Blue Green Infrastructure (BGI), as a concept, utilises natural ecosystems and green cover in urban areas to create an environment which is sustainable. This includes the use of features such as water bodies, parks, urban forests, gardens, and wetlands, to name a few, to enhance the quality of life in cities. Green spaces in an urban environment create breathing space for citizens, thus creating a healthy environment. A healthy workforce with diversified economic contributors is essential for a fast-growing economy like India. This paper discusses the role of BGI as a stimulant in economic and social progress. The present study proposes to examine the BGI-induced growth in the city of Ahmedabad through examples of various waterfront/riverfront development projects. The study would incorporate the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Project (10.4 km stretch) in Ahmedabad as an example of implementing BGI, creating a vibrant public space for the city’s residents. Similarly, the Kankaria and Vastrapur Lake Development Projects would also be investigated through the lens of BGI. The study will also incorporate another area of Ahmedabad city near the Isanpur Lake, which is currently dilapidated. In ancient times, it was a small village near Ahmedabad, now embedded into the main city. A few landmarks of historical importance, like Jethabhai Stepwell and an old mosque, make it an area which has the potential to become a vibrant hub. The inputs gathered from successful studies of Ahmedabad and example from around the world would be used to develop an academic understanding of how to include BGI strategies from the early design development stages to produce more environmentally conscious urban design in the Isanpur Lake.