Amaravati’s infrastructure development under The National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) Scheme
Amaravati, known for the Amaralingeswara Swamy temple, Mahachaitya Stupa and Dharanikota Fort, was facing severe infrastructural challenges.
Today, Amaravati is getting transformed due to infrastructure development under The National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) Scheme of Ministry of Urban Development that started in 2015. The focus of the scheme is on holistic development of heritage cities. Under the scheme, around 18 stretches of roads connecting heritage sites had already been upgraded along with streetscaping which will enhance the heritage experience of users. The upgradation will improve the access to sites such as Dharanikota Fort, Amaravati Pond, Mahachaitya Stupa, Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple, Kalachakra Museum, Dhyanabuddha Statue, ASI museum and Zamindar Bungalow. As part of the upgradation, storm water drains are also being constructed along with pedestrian infrastructure including footpath, street signages and street furniture inspired by local heritage. Apart from improvement in connectivity and mobility, the town is also developing heritage walkway under HRIDAY to promote intangible heritage of the town. Above projects worth INR 12.33 Crores will be completed by the end of 2017 and contribute to the holistic development of the town.
Images: Work under progress under HRIDAY scheme
The above projects are being implemented as part of the City HRIDAY plan for Amaravati with an estimated investment of INR 47.25 Crores. The plan was prepared by ICLEI South Asia and Indian Heritage Cities Network Foundation (IHCNF), and has been accepted by the Ministry of Urban Development. It includes convergence with other central schemes.
The HRIDAY Scheme was launched on January 21, 2015 with the aim to bring together urban planning, economic growth and heritage conservation in an inclusive manner by restoring, reviving and strengthening the soul and heritage of the city.
ICLEI South Asia, with partner IHCNF, is selected as City Anchor for Amaravati by Government of India to facilitate planning and advising, and supporting local authorities for successful implementation of the scheme.
