Many Ahmedabadis are dismayed by the realisation that one of the city’s ancient and most beloved recreational spots has been usurped and unrecognisably transformed by the local authorities. Kankaria is an artificial lake with an island summer palace created in the fifteenth century and said to have been frequented at one time by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir and Noor Jahan. Located in the south east region of Ahmedabad, it has been a popular venue for picnickers, birdwatchers and casual strollers for centuries. A recent beautification project undertaken by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation under the guidance of the state government at a cost of Rupees 36 crore however has completely altered the character of, and modes of access to, the space.

The construction of fences, walls, and high gates for instance has blocked the passer by’s view of the placid waters. Vehicular traffic has been banished from the perimeter but the levy of a fee of ten rupees per adult visitor with additional costs for added attractions has introduced an economic criteria for the enjoyment of the lake. Visually, the serene lake with its mud banks, street-side stalls, ancient steps and monuments has been given a makeover with granite and grey paint. A toy train, named the ‘Atal Express’ with a faux tunnel, film music, food stalls, commercial signage on the boats and on the island, rides and so on have turned the rambling, disorderly space into a modern, amusement complex.

There would indisputably be a section of citizens which would welcome the newly sanitised Kankaria, but a great number are disturbed by what they perceive as a takeover of a cherished landmark and various forms of protest — both Gandhian and modern such as a media campaign — are in the planning. The reaction — coming after the completion of the project — is belated but the issue has implications that go well beyond the local.

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