Impact Assessment of Public Area Improvement of Dhal ni Pol, Ahmedabad-April 2023

The “Revitalization of Dhal ni Pol” was a unique initiative led by the Mahila Housing Trust (MHT) aimed at improving the physical public area environment and quality of life in a heritage precinct. This initiative serves as an interesting case study in community-led heritage preservation that leveraged Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding and critical support from local government in upgrading infrastructure. HDFC Ltd, through its CSR initiatives, played a crucial role in the project’s success by contributing Rs. 1.25 Cr towards the effort. The project was completed in September 2021 and garnered widespread recognition, inspiring not only other heritage precincts in Ahmedabad but also cities across India. In December 2022, HDFC engaged City Collab to conduct an independent impact assessment study of the project and produce a forward-looking report outlining lessons learned for both monitoring and informing such future initiatives.