To highlight the importance of riverfronts and how they paved way for evolution of great civilisations, the final-year students of School of Planning and Architecture-Vijayawada setup up a studio presentation on two contemporary riverfronts – the Krishna and Musi.
“Going back to the history we can see how riverfronts have a played a great role in the development of human settlements. But off late, it has taken a backseat, despite riverfronts being a part of urban design,” said Bhavana, a final year student of architecture.
“To make the best use of the riverfronts we have to engage the people. Riverfronts should not become the dumping ground of cities. We have to re-engage the people and bring them back to the riverfronts,” said Aishwarya, another final year student.
In an innovative gesture, the students did not invite any politician or bureaucrat to inaugurate the studio, but called in L. Venkateswara Rao, a fisherman, to cut the ribbon. “They know the best use of the riverfront, and that is why we have invited him,” said Charan, a student. To highlight the best use of riverfronts the students showcased various ideas that included setting up of beautification projects such as parking parks and utility projects.
They also highlighted how industrial projects have affected the rivers.
