A ceremony was held today to relaunch the ambitious Amaravati Masterplan, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu laying the foundation stone to officially recommence the landmark project. Designed by Foster + Partners, the new administrative capital of Andhra Pradesh marks a significant step in India's urban development landscape.
© Foster + Partners
The city of Amaravati emerged in the wake of the reorganisation of state boundaries between Andhra Pradesh and the newly formed state of Telangana. Envisioned as a symbol of a progressive future, the 217-square-kilometre development aims to embody sustainability, connectivity, and democratic identity.
Chris Bubb, Senior Partner at Foster + Partners, remarked:
'Today is an exciting next step for this landmark project. Our design celebrates the heritage of Andhra Pradesh, creates an accessible and connected green community, and will be one of the most sustainable urban developments in the world with holistic environmental, energy, transport, and water strategies.'
Strategically located on the banks of the River Krishna, Amaravati was planned to take advantage of its abundant freshwater resources. Sixty percent of the development is composed of water bodies or green spaces, with a clearly defined green spine running the length of the city as the central element of its environmental strategy. Designed to the highest standards of sustainability, the masterplan integrates solar energy, electric vehicles, water taxis, and dedicated cycle routes. Shaded streets and plazas have been incorporated to encourage walkability and comfort in the public realm.
At the heart of the city lies a 7-kilometre by 1-kilometre governmental complex, defined by a structured urban grid. This zone includes a mixed-use quarter anchored by 13 urban plazas, each representing one of Andhra Pradesh's 13 districts. The city's civic core is the Legislative Assembly, located at the centre of the green spine and set within a freshwater lake, flanked by the Secretariat and surrounding cultural buildings. The Assembly is designed to glow softly at night, creating a beacon-like presence in the cityscape.
To the side of the central axis sits the High Court Complex, whose stepped roof form pays homage to India's ancient stupas. The rooftop's solar panels are engineered to generate the building's entire operational energy, while large vertical fin shades facilitate natural ventilation. A central open-air garden within the complex offers a shared social space for both the public and judicial staff, underscoring the inclusive ethos of the development.
With the relaunch of the Amaravati Masterplan, India sets forth a bold vision for future city building, one that respects tradition, champions sustainability, and places democratic values at its core.
More information:
Foster + Partners
www.fosterandpartners.com