Author: Sahil Singh
Site Location: Firozabad, Uttar Pradesh
Institute: DY Patil School of Architecture
Advisor: Prof. Anita Shyam

description

Bangles occupy a profound cultural resonance within Indian society, embodying beauty and tradition of women. Firozabad, famously dubbed as the “City of Bangles,” has served as the epicenter of bangle craftsmanship for centuries. Skilled artisans meticulously create these delicate treasures, sustaining an ancient tradition that harmonizes the rich tapestry of Indian culture. The city lies in the district headquarters of Uttar Pradesh, located 40 kilometers from Agra. The city has a monopoly in glass production and produces 70% of the total glass produced in India.

The city’s majority of the population relies on glass and bangle making as their primary livelihood but the workers endure perilous conditions in the glass industries. The production processes for bangle making necessitate exposure to toxic gasses, smoke, and intense heat, creating a hazardous environment that endangers their health. This not only jeopardizes the well-being of the workers but also impacts the wider community and the environment of Firozabad. A significant factor contributing to these dangers is the city’s current architectural practices, particularly in housing and factory design. The inadequate planning of living and working spaces, along with the poor segregation of industrial zones, underscores a critical need for intervention. The project encompasses a diverse and contrasting urban fabric, integrating industries, housing, and markets as the core elements. While these three components are interconnected by a common thread—bangle making—they serve distinct architectural functions.

The thesis seeks to re-imagine the working environments of the Firozabad bangle-making community, addressing both their livelihood needs and the spaces in which they work, including factories and housing. End goal is the creation of a self-sustaining neighborhood comprising of housing and factory development which create a huge environmental as well as user-centric comfort at all stages. The research delves into the various factors impacting the lives of workers in Firozabad’s glass bangle industry, examining the challenges they face and the social dynamics between different stakeholder groups.

drawings

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