The city is witnessing a significant surge in annual pilgrim influx, with an expected tenfold increase by 2047, projecting an incredible ‘Citizens to Tourists Proportion’ of 1:10. This remarkable growth underscores Ayodhya’s pivotal role in spiritual tourism. Ayodhya is revamping its transportation network, refurbishing arterial roads like Rajmarg and widening pedestrian access to core locations like Hanuman Gadhi road and Sugreev Kila road. The city is creating six grand entry points, known as Ram Dwars, adorned with traditional stone facades, aiming to symbolize an inclusive spirit. In an exclusive interview with Financial Express Online, Dikshu Kukreja, renowned Architect, Managing Principal CP Kukreja Architects and Master planner for Ayodhya City, highlights the transformation of Ayodhya. Excerpts:
Q) How ‘Ayodhya Vision 2047’ will transform the ancient town into a sustainable smart city?
Ans: One of the prime goals of Ayodhya is to develop it as a sustainable smart city. With this Aspect the elements that are covered are various strategies which includes creating liveable and resilient communities which specially in a situation where there will be large influx of tourists in this city it should not take away the liveable quality for the permanent residents of the city. So, therefore the whole balance of giving adequate privacy and infrastructure to enhance the liveable quality distinctively of both permanent residents and the visitors is an important aspect. The second is utilising the latest urban planning technologies and sustainable development such as making the city a green and solar city. The third is about having an efficient and sustainable transportation network. The forth is an overall environmental sustainability models whether it has to do with waste management, water management, power management, all these aspects right from the city level to the individual home, how they will be integrated through various strategies and systems. The next is about providing efficient and modern infrastructure which keeps the city in a sustainable path and the last is idea of having the strategic Spatial Guide Plan for the city to make it a sustainable model.
Q) How big will be the ‘New Ayodhya’ or the Green Field Township?
Ans: The ‘New Ayodhya’ or the Green Field Township is planned to cover an extensive area of 1200 acres. This substantial land allocation emphasizes the scale and ambition of the development project, showcasing a commitment to creating a sizeable and well-planned urban space. The sheer size of the township underscores the comprehensive planning and strategic vision behind Ayodhya’s ongoing development, aiming to cater to the diverse needs and aspirations of its residents and visitors. Diverse amenities, including ashrams, muths, high-end hotels, state bhawans, and atithi grahs, ensure that the township caters to various aspects of daily life, promoting a balanced and communal lifestyle. The central Brahmasthan, aligned with the Ram Mandir, serves as a focal point, symbolizing the spiritual heart of Ayodhya.
Q) It is heard that Ayodhya will adopt the Climate-responsive architecture. What is it and how will it be executed?
Ans: In the context of Ayodhya’s development plans, Climate-responsive architecture involves integrating design elements and construction techniques that respond to the region’s climatic conditions. The Sarayu River Edge Development, is a crucial component of Ayodhya’s sustainability efforts, envisions transforming the riverfront into a vibrant public space. This initiative aligns with Climate-responsive architecture by not only rejuvenating the river but also enhancing the overall ecological balance of the area. The integration of green spaces, public parks, and the creation of a spiritual forest in the Ramayana Spiritual Forest project further reflect Ayodhya’s commitment to a climate-responsive and sustainable urban environment. Ayodhya’s Climate-responsive architecture goes beyond individual buildings to encompass the entire cityscape. The development plans prioritize the creation of a comprehensive Ring Road system, the expansion and revitalization of core areas, and the establishment of entry points adorned with traditional stone facades (Ram Dwars). These measures not only enhance accessibility and connectivity but also contribute to a city layout that harmonizes with the natural surroundings.
Q) The transformation journey of Ayodhya – from ancient town to new modern hub. How is it planned and what were the major hurdles?
Ans: The main focal points in designing Ayodhya City revolve around striking a delicate balance between preserving its rich cultural heritage and integrating modern infrastructure. The primary emphasis lies in the preservation and showcasing of Ayodhya’s historical significance, incorporating elements of its ancient past into the city’s modern-day structure. A pivotal focus is on creating sustainable practices, seen through initiatives like restoring historical kunds and rejuvenating the Sarayu River, which align with the city’s cultural essence while ensuring environmental preservation. Additionally, the development prioritizes enhancing amenities to cater to diverse visitors, from grand entry points like Ram Dwars showcasing traditional stone facades to the integration of net-zero electric vehicles, promoting inclusivity and sustainability within the city’s framework. The Ayodhya Development Authority (ADA) had invited objections and suggestions on the Ayodhya Maha Yojna – 2031 (Ayodhya Masterplan – 2031). The authority received various objections and primarily the bulk of the objections were related to the Land Acquisition for the Ayodhya Airport Expansion project. While there is a significantly large number of objections on this, to a large extent this is an understandable phenomenon which has been often seen in the past. Since the last couple of years and after the announcement of Ram Mandir Project there has been a lot of speculative of land in and around the city of Ayodhya and Faizabad. There have been many land deals around the airport with this whole idea in mind of natural phenomena of the expansion of the airport in the future. Accordingly, the objections are now being filed once the government has announced Land Acquisition for the necessary expansion of the project.
Q) How the real estate has been planned for the new township and other things?
Ans: Ayodhya is a city which will be having a planned growth. Since, we can through different Models of Urban Planning forecast the Growth that the city is going to take place within the next few years as well as the next couple of decades. This allows that the infrastructure and other requirements both of a very large visiting and transient population as well as the continuously increasing permanent population of the city are adequately planned and provided for. This aspect is very different from most Indian cities which have witnessed sporadic growth leading to an inadequate provision or mismatch between the infrastructure provided to the actual requirements. In the case of Ayodhya, it presents us a great opportunity to be able to work on internationally acclaimed and practiced population forecast models and according the plan for infrastructure of the city in a smart and sustainable manner.