Olympics bid: Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority embarks on 20-year plan

Source: The Times of India

AHMEDABAD: In preparation for the bid to host the 2036 Olympics, the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (Auda) has initiated a comprehensive 20-year development plan named Ahmedabad Development Plan 2041.

The Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (Auda) has launched a comprehensive 20-year development plan named Ahmedabad Development Plan 2041, as part of its preparation for the bid to host the 2036 Olympics.

Auda is consulting with various stakeholders to gain insights on the bid process. At the same time, it is working on a new general development control regulation (GDCR) to provide a strong framework for the city’s spatial development.

Auda has issued a tender this week to hire a consultant to prepare a master plan for the city’s water supply, sewage, and stormwater drainage needs.

The master plan will aim to satisfy the current needs and also project future requirements until 2050.

Auda’s development plan goes beyond physical infrastructure and adopts an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to urban growth. The plan’s main elements include conserving groundwater and implementing innovative water management strategies, such as rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment.

The master plan will concentrate on areas within Auda, the chosen venue for the Olympic Games. A senior Auda official said, "Unlike its predecessor, the 2021 Development Plan, which emphasised public transport, the 2041 vision covers a wider range, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2040."Auda has assigned the task of preparing the strategic master plan to Populous, a Brisbane-based firm, according to top sources. The company is renowned for its expertise in designing sports, entertainment, and cultural venues. Populous’s surveyors have started work, drawing boundaries in eight areas, including Motera, Koteshwar, Bhat, and the nearby regions of Sughad, Chandkheda, Zundal, and Koba.