Ekistics Revisited: A Study of Dynapolis Model as Applied In Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Modernist Grand Plans emerged in post-colonial countries, in 1960s, by planning of new capital cities, like Brasilia, Chandigarh, and Islamabad. Islamabad was designed by an acclaimed planer and visionary, Dr. C. A. Doxiadis, on his self-coined planning canon, called Ekistics. Ekistics resulted in the Dynapolis planning model, which in its culminating form was applied, in making of Islamabad. Subject study undertakes the analysis of this application, in longitudinal realm. The city has changed over a period of sixty years especially in design of its core. The study analyzes these changes both spatially, and technically, supported by diagrams, maps and quantitative data, in context of Dynapolis model. Firstly the study takes a step back, and re-states the definitions of the essential concepts of Dynapolis Model, based on original sources. Afterwards it studies its application to plan making, in context of Islamabad. The study is exploratory and intertwined with a constant discourse around the ‘Dynapolis’ concept (chosen as the subject), and Islamabad master plan (as a specimen example). The study examines the transformation of the core in detail, basis of FARIs, and spatial data extracted from plan drawings and reports. The original design process is also explored as ekistical process. Further two key issues are analyzed. One transformation of the core, secondly the (validity) vii presence of dynapolis model, after all the changes. The identification of threats is also made, that may hinder application of this model. The evaluation of dynapolis model is based on six key indicators, abstracted from the original sources. Based on review of more than four master plans, and spatial analysis, it is established that spatial inter-relationship of Rawalpindi city with Islamabad demands for metropolitan planning, and deviance from such planning is one major threat (the two being interlocked cities). Flawed implementation of core transpires as another key threat to Dynapolis model. Another formidable threat comes from unplanned growth, and using spatial data, collected through satellite imagery, by juxtaposition and locational analysis on master plan, the extent and scale of the threat is determined. . This study attempts to create a link between the theory and practice, while remaining in the spatial, technical, and real world domains. This is achieved by placing the spatial and technical data in theoretical perspective. Lastly recommendations are made, reflecting immediate actions and remedial measures, in short and long term. Key Words: Ekistics, Dynapolis, Core, Islamabad, Modernism, Spatial Sublimation, Urban Design