The map provides a visual comparison of the Maritza in 1984 and its changes three decades later in 2014, highlighting the significant transformations that have occurred here over the years.
In 1984, the landscape of the area was primarily composed of extensive woodland, accompanied by a modest row of residential houses and essential community amenities, including a restaurant and café that served as social hubs for residents. This neighbourhood has basic utilities to meet citizens’ needs, featuring crucial infrastructures such as a hospital that ensures access to healthcare, a library that promoted literacy and lifelong learning, and a school dedicated to the education of local children. Additionally, there was also a small park.
However, 30 years later, the neighbourhood went through significant changes. The park was three times bigger, and people resided in apartments instead of conventional houses. There were also additional skyscrapers, factories, shops, fountains, malls, and even a bicycle park with a separate cycle lane. Despite that, all the woodland was gone, creating space for other infrastructure. Through these numbers, it is unarguable that the Martiza had modernized with notable improvements, therefore enhancing the quality of life for residents.
In conclusion, the evolution of the Martiza over the past 30 years highlights its remarkable adaptability and resilience, whilst raising issues in areas such as air pollution.