The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has proposed a complete traffic ban through Ahmedabad’s heritage darwajas (gates) and the removal of nearby encroachments, following the recent collapse of a wooden gate portion at Dilli Darwaja, which sparked urgent concerns over the condition of these iconic structures.
In a formal letter to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), the ASI has suggested barricading the gates, similar to the protective measures already in place at Astodia Gate, to prevent further damage and ensure public safety.
Preservation Push for Heritage Gates
As part of its efforts to protect Ahmedabad’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage City, the ASI highlighted that 12 historical gates remain in the city, with nine under its protection. The new preservation plan could lead to significant changes in traffic routes, including possible alterations to the Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra path, as key darwajas like Prem Darwaja and Panchkuva Darwaja lie along the traditional procession route.
The move for preservation was spurred by BJP MLA Kaushik Jain (Dariapur), who sent several letters to the ASI requesting urgent repairs after the Dilli Darwaja incident. The Heritage Conservation Committee has since taken up the proposal and is working with various departments on its execution.
Traffic and Urban Planning Impact
According to Deputy Municipal Commissioner Ramya Bhatt, the AMC is in talks with the Traffic Police to plan possible road diversions and assess the impact of closures. After discussions with departments and ward committees are complete, the plan will be sent to the Municipal Commissioner and the Standing Committee for final approval.
Daily traffic through Sarangpur, Raipur, Kalupur, and Teen Darwaja could face disruptions, raising concerns about congestion in the city’s heritage core.
Encroachments and Conservation Concerns
The ASI also flagged encroachments by roadside vendors and hawkers near several gates, which threaten the architectural integrity of these structures. Four gates still retain their original wooden shutters, which require immediate conservation work.
A Delicate Balance
The proposal highlights the need to strike a balance between preserving Ahmedabad’s centuries-old heritage structures and maintaining urban mobility. While necessary for conservation, the changes may lead to short-term disruptions in daily life and festival planning in the historic city.