If the reports from the power corridors of the Andhra Pradesh government are to be believed, London-based architect Foster and Partners has been finalised to design the official buildings of Amaravati, including Assembly and High Court.
According to these reports, three firms – Foster and Partners, Space Group and GMP International competed for the bid when Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) called for international bids. After going through technical and financial bids, Foster and Parners stood as L-1.
Initially, Naidu had favoured Japan-based architects Maki Associates, but dropped the idea after its designs drew criticism from various quarters saying they resembled atomic reactors and lacked nativity. Later, the government called for fresh tenders.
Even the selection of Foster and Parners is said to be controversial, as it has Mumbai-based architect Hafiz Contractor as partner. There were several allegations of professional misconduct against his firm. Apparently, he lobbied with Naidu government and managed to get the contract by changing the rules.
Urban Development Minister P Narayana is said to be the man behind finalising the contract in favour of the London firm, say reports.
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