Gandhinagar: The city’s iconic riverfront is set for a substantial extension, expanding by an additional 22 kilometres up to the Pethapur Thermal Power Plant in Gandhinagar. This ambitious project, which will be executed in five distinct stages (Phases 3 to 7), aims to enhance connectivity between various urban areas and alleviate traffic congestion. Upon completion, the total length of the riverfront will be 38.5 kilometres, positioning it as the world’s longest riverfront, according to senior officials from the Urban Development Department.
The Gujarat state government, through the Gujarat Urban Development Company Ltd (GUDCL), will spearhead the project. The Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (SRFDCL), which has successfully developed an 11-kilometre stretch in Phase 1 and is currently working on a 5.5-kilometre segment between Subhash Bridge and Indira Bridge in Phase 2, will play a crucial consulting role.
“The current plan is to extend the riverfront to the Gandhinagar Thermal Power Station, covering a total of 38.5 kilometres. The state government has assigned the project to GUDCL for effective coordination among various urban local bodies,” stated a senior official from the Urban Development Department. “SRFDCL’s role will continue beyond Phase 2, providing essential technical expertise as the consulting agency,” he added.
The project will require a collaborative effort involving several stakeholders, including the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA), Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC), Gandhinagar Urban Development Authority (GUDA), GIFT City, and the irrigation department.
One of the critical aspects of the expansion is the enhancement of water retention capacity. The existing riverfront can hold between 6.5 million to 7 million cubic metres of water. According to senior urban development officials, this capacity can be replicated beyond Indira Bridge up to the weir, ensuring effective water management.
Additionally, the project includes the prized area of 9.6 kilometres towards the Narmada Canal upstream from the railway bridge near Bhat, as highlighted by senior AMC officials. This area is anticipated to be a significant aspect of the riverfront’s expansion, further boosting its utility and appeal.
The phased approach to this massive infrastructure project aims to ensure systematic development and minimal disruption to the existing urban fabric. Each phase will incrementally enhance the riverfront, making it a landmark not only in Gujarat but also globally.
This mega project is set to transform the urban landscape of Gandhinagar, offering improved connectivity, enhanced water management, and a boost to local development. The collaborative efforts of multiple agencies and stakeholders underscore the project’s significance and the commitment to its timely and successful execution.
