The glorious land that upholds the heritage AMARAVATI was once again recognized, this time to shine from the past and glisten into the future. Today, we will see the proposed design for the government complex by Foster + Partners as part of the proposed master plan project. The current political conflict will not deter us from focusing on the architectural aspects of the project and planning the city. Without further ado, let's get started.
ABOUT
In 2014, February when Andhra Pradesh was bifurcated, Amravati became the new capital for it; located on the riverbank of Krishna River Amravati holds an outstanding past in terms of art and architecture. It was the former capital for the satavahana dynasty and core location where Buddha taught the Heart Essence form of the Kalachakra Dharma to the Shambala kings. Many significant historical landmarks are found in the region, some of them being the Dhyana Buddha Statue, Undavalli Caves, Amravati stupa, and Amralingeshwara Temple. Having the rich ground in culture, the design of the proposed Amravati city planning has great significance of Vastu shastra and Buddhist architecture which we will see further in the post while discussing the concept behind designing the government structure of the city.
MASTER PLAN
The image above is the zoning of the master plan proposed. The city follows a grid network of roads dividing the city land into different sectors being an irrigation land a proper use of river water will be seen. The proposed planning had river channels across the city around which the residential areas are build-up. It will be built to the highest standards of sustainability using the latest technology being implemented in India today, such as photovoltaics. Transportation options include electric vehicles, water taxis, and dedicated cycle routes, along with shaded streets and squares that encourage walking throughout the city.
THE GOVERNMENT COMPLEX
The concept for the new government complex, which will be the focal point of the 217-square-kilometer metropolis, is designed by Foster + Partners. The project involves the construction of two important structures: the parliamentary assembly and the high court complex, as well as other secretariat buildings housing state administrative departments.
The governmental complex, which spans 5.5 kilometers by 1 kilometer and thus is defined by a strong urban grid that structures the city, is positioned in the city's core.
A clearly defined green spine runs through the masterplan, reminiscent of New Delhi and Central Park in New York, providing the basis for its environmental strategy, where at least 60% of the land is greenery or water.
A mixed-use quarter is constructed around 13 urban plazas, which represent the 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh.
The legislative assembly building sits atop the green spine, an important symbol of democracy and culture for the people of Andhra Pradesh.
THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
The legislative assembly building is framed by the secretariat and cultural buildings and situated inside a vast freshwater lake. Its square layout, based on Vaastu principles, features the public entrance on the north and the ministers' entrance on the east.
The assembly chamber, where ministerial deliberations take place, is located in the building's southwest corner, which is regarded as the most fortunate.
THE COUNCIL HALL IS SITUATED IN NORTHEAST AND administrative offices in the northwest
The center is supposed to be a void, similar to a courtyard, in keeping with Vaastu's ideas.
It is a public meeting venue for the people and their elected officials for the majority of the year. People ascend a spiral ramp to the cultural museum and observation gallery, where they may witness democracy in action. The structure is covered by a 250-meter-high conical roof with a wide overhanging canopy that offers shade while allowing cooling breezes to pass through.
HIGH COURT COMPLEX
With its stepped roof form inspired by ancient stupas in India, the high court complex is located off the central axis.
The roof's extensive overhangs provide shade while also allowing the structure to air passively.
The structure has a courtyard and a roof garden, allowing natural light to filter into the interior areas.
The layout of the structure is made up of alternating concentric levels of rooms and circulation areas, which is influenced by the ancient temple arrangement.
The administrative offices and lesser courts, which are most accessible to the public, are on the buildings outside boundaries, while the Chief Justice's court and private chambers are on the inside.
CONCLUSION
A great design influenced by the city's heritage and culture was finally revealed. In a sense, it is an amalgamation of traditional and futuristic approaches. If this project reaches its destination and we can get these innovative designs underway soon, that would be great.
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