Architect of iconic buildings in the country and across the globe, Padma Bhushan Hafeez Contractor, claimed that old city revival in any Indian city was important to preserve the character, identity and ethos of that city. He also said that if a government were to make a visible difference to quality of life and economy of a city, then old city revival should be on its agenda. Contractor was in Ahmedabad on Monday on the occasion of World Architecture Day and was invited by the Indian Institute of Architects and Institute of Indian Interior Designers (IIID) to deliver a lecture on his works as part of the 'Design a Better World' theme this year.

Contractor said it was important to ensure that the unique old city economy continues to function with the same vibrancy.

"This is what attracts tourism from all over the world and in the country and boosts Walled City economy," said Contractor. "If the civic body has a special TDR policy for the Walled City, then they should ensure that builders planning large affordable housing schemes in special zones buy the extra FSI only from the Walled City," he said.