The construction of Amaravati, the new capital of Andhra Pradesh, seems to be an unending saga, as the state government headed by chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu is taking more time in finalising the designs of several government buildings.
Naidu, who was supposed to finalise the designs of the Amaravati government complex on Wednesday so that he could lay foundation stone for the same on Dasara, did not approve the designs prepared by renowned architectural firm Normal Foster and Partners, as he was not impressed. This would mean there would be further delay the construction of the new Capital.
According to indications from the chief minister’s office, the fresh designs are unlikely to be finalised before November.
Naidu, along with ministers Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, P Narayana and Ganta Srinivasa Rao and senior officials, inspected the designs on Wednesday and appeared not impressed. Though he was happy with the waterfront and the layout, he said the facade could "look much better".
"Some elements of the design are good but the façade has not come out well. There is a mixed reaction from the public, so take more time and come out with fantastic designs," Naidu told the Fosters' team.
"Take the top 10 buildings of the world as an inspiration and come out with designs better than them," he said.
Interestingly, the chief minister once again asked Fosters to consult Baahubali director S S Rajamouli for "inputs" on the designs for two iconic structures (Legislature complex and High Court) and major government buildings like the state Secretariat.
Indications are that Rajamouli could soon be "made to fly to London", headquarters of Fosters, for delivering his advice. And Naidu will also visit London on October 25 to inspect the fresh designs.
"He will invest enough time, and he intends to lock the final plans by then," an official release from the CMO said.
