‘Radiant City’ losing lustre

By M.N. Sharma

THE city is an idea of life created by life itself: a philosophy in four dimensions that leaves an imprint and renews itself from one century to another. Le Corbusier, considered the greatest architect of the century, envisioned Chandigarh reflecting his philosophy of a "Radiant City" that would fulfil the needs and inspire the common man to a healthy lifestyle.

Chandigarh has almost completed 50 years of existence and has grown faster than ever envisaged. The city depicts courage of the people for accepting idealistic norms and philosophical concepts that give Chandigarh the unique distinction of being one of the finest modern cities. It has grown to a great extent according to Le Corbusier’s concept and regulatory controls that define its character. It is considered prudent to re-evaluate the zoning regulation and the architectural controls in the context of changed socio-economic conditions. In doing so, it must be ensured that the changes are in keeping with the prevailing infrastructure and civic amenities that are essential for all citizens.

By the mid-sixties, the Administration became increasingly aware of the expansion and spread of unauthorised labour colonies and rehri markets. They occupied areas zoned for industrial, institutional, commercial and cultural purposes. All-out efforts were made for the rehabilitation of the unauthorised settlers close to their vocation with remarkable results. Transit camps were also planned but nothing could be done to block the influx of new entrants. Thorough screening and proper assessment has to be made before embarking on rehabilitation schemes that should not benefit the unscrupulous people.

The situation has gone worse due to lack of vigilance in the course of many years and has reached alarming proportions. Ad hoc decisions taken with regards to unauthorised settlers have doomed the poor to filthy conditions, resulting in the misuse of most valuable land needed for proper development of the city. Retaining of the villages in the second phase of Chandigarh was another great folly that has hindered the growth of the city. It would have been impossible to build the capital city if such decisions were taken at its inception. Chandigarh was made possible by the patronage of Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.

It is absolutely shocking the way Le Corbusier’s buildings, of a great historic value, are being misused and defaced. The entire area of the capitol complex gives the appearance of a war-zone. In no other country one will witness such antiquated protective measures.

In 1994, Patwant Singh, a noted author and critic, supported by 70 eminent architects of the world expressed concern for the city and Le Corbusier’s buildings. I too received frantic letters from admirers of Le Corbusier, expressing the same concern. None of these letters originated from India.

The ongoing violations in the periphery of Chandigarh will also adversely affect the infrastructure and civic amenities of SAS Nagar and Panchkula. Anticipating further encroachments within the influence of Chandigarh, the Government of India was approached to constitute a high-level coordination committee comprising representatives of the states concerned and the Central Government. The committee was very effective in resolving technical issues and coordinating the development proposals, ensuring balanced growth of the region. Any proposal for a new town within the periphery of Chandigarh can imperil the conglomerate of existing towns.

One cannot miss noticing alarming increase of violations in every aspect of the city’s development. Practically all buildings are defaced with advertisements and colour facades. Zoning regulations which are ignored with impunity will have serious repercussions if allowed to continue.

The Chandigarh Administration is now making commendable efforts to remove violations which were neglected all these years. But the public must be made aware of their responsibilities for enduring such efforts.

The integrated plans for the development of the region must relate to the genuine needs and at the same time preserve the sanctity of the green belt to ensure the growth of existing settlements. Overburdening of essential services will negate all efforts of planning. Experience gained during the planning and development of Chandigarh will be of great value in all such exercises.

Citizens are the true guardians of the city. Let Chandigarh — Le Corbusier’s "Radiant City" and Nehru’s symbol of resurgent India — not lose its lustre.