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By: Rajlakshmi Dubey and Shravani Sonmali.
1. Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture, Brick College of Architecture, Pune
2. Student, Department of Architecture, Brick College of Architecture, Pune
Water is an essential element of nature and a fundamental resource for all life on Earth. Since ancient times, human civilizations have flourished around water sources, and rivers are revered as sacred, across diverse cultures. In India, traditional water conservation systems like stepwells played a crucial role in ensuring the availability of water throughout the year. Stepwells, known for its unique architectural and cultural significance, have been an integral part of water management in India. This paper offers a detailed examination of the stepwell (Hatti Barav) in Ahmednagar district, focusing on its architectural features. The paper analyzes the structural design of the stepwell, including its depth along with its morphological characteristics. The decline in the number of step wells is leading to loss of social interaction diminishing the cultural landscape of that place. The study aims to showcase the aesthetic and practical significance of these historical wells. Adaptive design offers a solution by revitalizing these structures within modern water management strategies. Restored stepwells can function as community spaces while preserving their historical purpose. Integrating stepwells into eco-sensitive urban planning aligns with nature-based solutions for sustainability. This study highlights their dual role as heritage sites and potential tourist attractions, reinforcing their relevance within the UN’s sustainable development goals. It emphasizes the urgent need to preserve these architectural masterpieces, ensuring their continued contribution to water conservation and resilient urban landscapes. By adopting sustainable restoration methods, we can address water scarcity while safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.
Keywords: water, stepwell, cultural landscape, water management, conservation.
Citation:
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