Universal Design elective students of year 2012 have participated in the National Student Design Competition (NSDC 2012) organised by SPA Bhopal on the theme UNIVERSAL USABILITY IN WORLD HERITAGE SITES. The group under guidance of Prof. Kavita Murugkar have chosen to work on World heritage site of Ellora Caves.
This study is a part of the research project granted by the BCUD, University of Pune to Prof.Kavita Murugkar
After studying existing literature about the heritage site and collecting background information, the group made a 3 day visit to Ellora caves in August'13. Extensive study of the existing condition of accessibility of the caves was carried out at the site. Students also conducted a walk and talk audit with two persons with disabilities from aurangabad. Thanks to them for participating in the study !
After systematically analysing the observations, students worked on design interventions that can be proposed to enhance universal accessibility.
The suggestions were worked out at the master plan level as well as individual cave level, keeping in mind the bye-laws that govern interventions at heritage sites. The proposal included having an onsite interpretation center,amphitheatre for sound and light show, tactile stone models, provision of battery operated coaches for movement within the site, hydraulic lift to take visitors to vantage points, use of audio compass for informed navigation and all in one visitor facility blocks at regular intervals. Apart from the above ramps, railings and signages have been proposed such that they do not negatively impact the heritage value of the site and are reversible in nature.
The proposal has been submitted for the NSDC , Bhopal and students are awaiting the first round of results....
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