NEW DELHI: The mega Ayodhya development plan will include setting up of a 1,200 acre new “model future city” based on Vedic city planning principles, as per the bid document floated by Uttar Pradesh government. The new greenfield city will be developed keeping religious and tourism aspects in mind.
Sources said the rejuvenation plan of Ayodhya would be to develop it as a holy city for Hindus as the Vatican is for Catholics. “Planning principles, urban forms, buildings and landscape should follow Vedic Ramayana and Vedic architecture,” said the tender floated for selection of a consultant to prepare the vision, implementation strategy and integrated infrastructure plan for Ayodhya. The development plan will be prepared for 30 years with focus on retaining the heritage of the core city, development of the riverfront and parikrama margs for pilgrims and infrastructure augmentation besides facilities for recreational activities. The construction of Ram Mandir is likely to be completed in 2023.
“The aim of this exercise is to prepare a neighbourhood plan/ detailed spatial plan for developing a greenfield integrated township of 1,200 acres, as part of proposed development of new Ayodhya, to develop as a model future city taking into account the best international practices for development, implementation, maintenance and management,” the tender document said.
TOI, on July 30, had first reported about the state government exploring the possibility of developing a greenfield city close to the Ram Mandir, which is under construction.
The selected consultant will have to identify tourism projects including the improvement of approach roads to Janam Bhoomi, pedestrian walkways, accommodation, plantation, shades, community spaces for religious and pilgrimage congregations. The city development plan will also include exhibition spaces, façade lighting, redevelopment and rejuvenation of kunds in the city.The selected consultant will prepare the development plan within seven months.