Pune: Dr. Bhanuben Nanawati College of Architecture for Women (BNCA) has been honored with a national award for its research project on Cluster Redevelopment in Core Cities under the Council of Architecture’s Urban Studio Research Project (USRP). The project was ranked among the top three in the country and received a ₹1,00,000 cash prize.
The national-level jury evaluation took place on January 21, 2025, at R.V. College of Architecture, Bengaluru, where 16 shortlisted teams presented their research.
The award-winning project, titled Urban Renewal Schemes in Core Cities: Is the Current Model of Cluster Redevelopment the Best Fit in Core Areas?, was led by Dr. Vaishali Angal, with key contributions from Dr. Sharvey Dhongde, Dr. Sujata Karve, Prof. Chaitanya Peshave, Prof. Sonali Malvankar, Prof. Deva Prasad, and Prof. Siddhi Joshi.
Dr. Vaishali Angal and Dr. Sharvey Dhongde received the award from Council of Architecture President, Ar. Abhay Purohit, in the presence of renowned architect Raj Rewal at Dayanand College of Architecture, Bengaluru.
BNCA Principal Dr. Anurag Kashyap emphasized the institution’s focus on socially responsible research, stating that the project reflects BNCA’s commitment to addressing real-world urban challenges. This research was initially selected under the Council of Architecture’s USRP initiative in 2021 and has evolved into a critical study influencing urban policy discussions.
Project lead, Dr. Vaishali Angal, explained that the research delves into the Cluster Redevelopment Policy proposed in December 2020 as part of Maharashtra’s Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR). The study assesses how large-scale redevelopment affects urban density, architectural heritage, local culture, and community identity in historic city cores.
Engaging Communities for Sustainable Redevelopment
Pune’s historic areas are characterized by their distinct urban fabric, strong community ties, and cultural legacy. The study critically examines the suitability of current cluster redevelopment models and their implications on livability and urban resilience.
To analyze redevelopment impacts, fourth-year BNCA students developed a prospective cluster development model for Rasta Peth, integrating livability criteria. A participatory workshop was conducted in April 2023, where residents engaged with physical models, virtual reality simulations, and presentation panels. The initiative received positive responses from the local community.
Shaping Policy Through Research
Building on community feedback, the research team is currently developing urban design guidelines to improve cluster redevelopment strategies. The recommendations will be submitted to the Maharashtra state government to refine the UDCPR framework.