Author: Manas Manojkumar Malpekar
Site Location: Mumbai
Institute:Dr. Baliram Hiray College of Architecture
Advisor: Ar. Samir Naik
This thesis investigates equity as an architectural framework for addressing unequal access to space, infrastructure, resources and opportunities within Gorai Koliwada. The project recognizes that these inequalities are experienced differently across the settlement, where fishermen face declining livelihood infrastructure, women have limited access to economic opportunities, children and youth experience inadequate educational environments, while elderly and economically vulnerable residents face restricted access to healthcare, sanitation, mobility and social infrastructure. The project therefore questions who architecture serves, who remains excluded and how spatial interventions can redistribute access without displacing existing communities. Rather than imposing a singular redevelopment model, the proposal works through incremental transformation of existing systems and underutilized spaces. Community infrastructure including a community center, women’s enterprise and training facilities, primary healthcare centre, school redevelopment, public sanitation, cultural streets and an upgraded fishermen’s wharf creates shared platforms for social, educational, cultural and economic participation. Equity is reinforced through accessible public spaces, livelihood infrastructure, ecological restoration and water sensitive landscapes. Tourism is integrated as a supporting economic interface without compromising community ownership or everyday functions. Architecture therefore becomes a means of redistributing spatial opportunity, strengthening community agency and enabling residents to shape the future of their settlement.
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Drawings
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