Mapping Chandernagore: A collaborative approach to heritage conservation

Abstract

This paper explores the role of a conservation professional, as a design strategist in urban heritage management, through a case study approach of the ‘Heritage and People of Chandernagore’ Project. Chandernagore, an erstwhile French Town, is situated about 40 km north of Kolkata, along the Hooghly river. This project was an initiative of Aishwarya Tipnis Architects (ATA) supported by the Vieilles Maison Francaise (VMF), Paris. The project has pioneered in the use of digital technology and open source GIS mapping to ‘crowd source’ content through citizen engagement activities in order to spread awareness and disseminate information about the town’s heritage. It demonstrates challenges of a semi-urban community, especially with inclusivity in the use of social media for citizen engagement, and corresponding solutions that encourage grass root level initiatives like participatory mapping for maximum public involvement.