Urban Study:
Street Re-animation
Location
Vilankurichi, Coimbatore, India
Year
2021
Category
Academic
Typology
Urban Study, Urban Design
Vilankurichi
For our Urban Design Studio Class, we were asked to individually study, document, and identify issues in our neighborhoods, and come up with solutions. The primary objective was to thoroughly analyze the region's current conditions and address the existing challenges, with the aim of proposing an urban intervention that significantly enhances the quality of life for the residents.
Vilankurichi is a neighborhood in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, recently incorporated into the Coimbatore Municipal Corporation. Located in the Coimbatore North taluk, it is situated near critical areas such as Saravanampatti, Peelamedu, Tidel Park, SITRA, CODISSIA, and Ganapathy.
The area is predominantly residential, with commercial spaces lining the main roads. Additionally, Vilankurichi hosts several small-scale industries and educational institutions.
Demographics
2006
2015
2020
Vilankurichi
The region is experiencing a consistent increase in both population and development. This growth can be attributed to several key factors. One of the most significant contributors is the proximity to IT parks, which attract a large number of professionals seeking employment opportunities. Additionally, the presence of reputable schools and colleges in the area makes it an attractive destination for families looking to provide quality education for their children.
Moreover, there has been a noticeable rise in the development of gated communities. These communities offer a range of amenities and a sense of security, making them highly desirable for residents. The combination of these factors has led to a thriving and dynamic region, poised for continued growth and development.
Morphology
Vilankurichi
The region is connected to the IT parks and educational institutions by major district roads. It also has access to the Sathyamangalam Highway, providing convenient connectivity for commuters. The road network is well-integrated throughout the residential areas.
Road Network
Vilankurichi
The area has a well-balanced mix of government and private schools, ensuring that educational facilities are evenly distributed and accessible to all residents. Additionally, the community has convenient access to several hospitals, providing essential healthcare services to the population. The public administration buildings are strategically located in the old village area. This includes the Village Administrative Office (VAO), veterinary hospitals, and a primary health care center.
Amenities
Vilankurichi
Vilankurichi is predominantly a residential area, with a large portion of its land dedicated to housing and living spaces. The main road that runs through the region is lined with various commercial establishments, including shops, restaurants, and offices, providing essential services and amenities to the residents. In addition to the residential and commercial zones, Vilankurichi is home to several small-scale industries. The area also has a number of educational institutions, ranging from primary schools to colleges.
Building Typologies
Vilankurichi
The region is predominantly inhabited by residents belonging to the middle-income group. This middle-income demographic forms the backbone of the local economy, contributing significantly to the region’s overall development and vibrancy.
In contrast, the Old Village area is primarily home to the low-income group. This segment of the population faces different socio-economic challenges and often relies on local employment opportunities or small-scale businesses to sustain their livelihoods.
Economy
Vilankurichi
The Old Village region and the Cheranmanagar region are characterized by a high population density, indicating that these areas are heavily populated with residents. This concentration of people suggests a bustling community with a vibrant local culture. Additionally, significant development is evident along the major arterial roads, which serve as key transportation routes. These roads are lined with various commercial and residential buildings, showcasing ongoing urban growth and infrastructure improvements. The development along these roads highlights the area’s economic activity and the efforts to enhance connectivity and accessibility for the residents.
Population Density
The Old Village
The Old Village is the epicenter of the development of this region. The region developed with farming and handloom industry as the main occupations. The region also had “pavadi” for the weaving and handloom community. At present, the majority of residents work for daily wages in construction projects, farming, and as cab drivers. The northern part of the region is susceptible to new development, whereas the older and much denser parts that house the majority of the native residents may not undergo any rapid or new developments in the near future. The region also has several temples. The Panchayat office and several other civic buildings are also in this region.
Building Typologies
The Old Village
The majority of traffic in the area is composed of two-wheelers and cars. During the morning and evening hours, particularly around school start and end times, school buses significantly contribute to the overall traffic volume. At the main junction, congestion is notably severe during peak hours, causing delays and slow movement. Additionally, pedestrian traffic is prominent along the commercial buildings and bus stops, where people frequently walk to and from these locations.
Bus Routes & Pedestrian Traffic
The Junction
The image of the region is given by the relation between its paths, nodes, landmarks, edges and districts.
The overall perception and character of a region are shaped by the interplay between its various elements, such as paths, nodes, landmarks, edges, and districts. Paths refer to the routes that people use to navigate through the area, including streets, walkways, and transit lines. Nodes are key points of interest or intersections where activities are concentrated, such as plazas, squares, or major junctions. Landmarks are prominent features or structures that stand out and help people orient themselves, like monuments, buildings, or natural formations. Edges are the boundaries or barriers that define and separate different areas, such as rivers, walls, or highways. Finally, districts are distinct sections or neighborhoods within the region that have their own unique identity and characteristics.
Imageability
The Junction
Pedestrian traffic is notably present along the commercial buildings and bus stops in the area. This flow of foot traffic is particularly high during the morning and evening hours, coinciding with the rush hours when people are commuting to and from work or school.
Several shops in the vicinity have merchandise or displays that extend into the pedestrian areas, creating spillovers that can sometimes obstruct the walkway. These spillovers add to the bustling atmosphere but can also pose challenges for smooth pedestrian movement.
Additionally, there are hawker spots, which are small, informal shops typically set up under trees.
Pedestrian Movement
The Junction
This region currently lacks designated parking zones, which has led to a significant issue. The areas highlighted on the map indicate where people commonly park their vehicles. Unfortunately, this practice often results in congestion, making it difficult for traffic to flow smoothly and for pedestrians to navigate the area safely.
Parking Zones
Elevations
The Old Village
The primary road that connects the bustling areas of Vilankurichi, Saravanampatti, and Peelamedu is known for its high traffic volume. This road serves as a vital artery for commuters and travelers in the region. Out of the four buses that operate on this route, three buses travel directly through Vilankurichi road, ensuring frequent and convenient transportation for residents and visitors. The fourth bus takes a slightly different path, skirting the periphery of the village, providing an alternative route for those who prefer a less congested journey.
Along this busy road, there are several points of interest that cater to the needs and interests of the local community, including bus stops. Additionally, the road is dotted with temples that serve as spiritual and cultural hubs for the residents, offering a place for worship and community gatherings. Markets along the route provide a vibrant space for commerce, where vendors sell fresh produce, household items, and other goods, creating a lively atmosphere.
Vehicular Traffic
The proposed solution includes several key improvements to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the street.
Street Reanimation
Traffic lanes &
Road diet
The traffic lanes are now properly defined, ensuring a smoother flow of vehicles and reducing confusion among drivers. A road diet has been implemented, which involves reducing the number of lanes or the width of the road. Speed tables have been introduced at junctions to maintain a consistent traffic speed. These raised areas of the road act as a traffic calming measure, encouraging drivers to slow down at intersections and improving safety for pedestrians and other road users.
Parking
Zones
Proper allocation of parking zones has been established. This strategic placement of parking areas helps to reduce traffic congestion by preventing random parking and ensuring that vehicles are parked in designated spots. These parking zones also support commercial buildings by providing convenient access for customers and delivery vehicles.
Pedestrian
Network
The pedestrian network has been reestablished, creating safe and accessible pathways for people to walk. This includes well-marked crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and wider sidewalks, making it easier and safer for people to navigate the area on foot.
Multi-Use
Community Space
A multi-use community space has been created to encourage people engagement. This space can be used for various activities such as community events, markets, or recreational purposes. It serves as a gathering place for residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community and enhancing the vibrancy of the area