The much-hyped City Square project proposed to be developed at Swaraj Maidan (PWD ground) as part of the Government’s city beautification plan will take at least a year to materialise.
The plan envisages expansion of the ground by clearing the many existing government and private structures in the vicinity, including the ever-bustling rythu bazaar, the irrigation offices, official bungalows, the electricity department office and quarters, besides a private college. The new ‘iconic’ structure is proposed to be built under the public-private partnership initiative.
Guizhou International Investment Corporation of China (GIIC) has designed the project to be developed on a five-acre land at an estimated cost of Rs. 135 crore.
Releasing the stunning designs of the project created by the GIIC, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared that these designs had been approved to transform the PWD ground into City Square, which would be “a jewel in Andhra Pradesh’s crown.” He said the project would be a large tourist attraction. But the GIIC, the project implementation agency, has not yet received any clear-cut direction from the Government on the project.
“We have so far not received anything in writing from the Government. After an agreement in writing, it will take at least one year to complete the project. Leave alone for Pushkarams, the project may take a minimum time of one year,” a GIIC official told The Hindu .
“Clarity eludes many aspects of the project. Its implementation can start only after the haze clears,” he added. The Government was keen on developing the proposed City Square by Pushkarams, as the new project, it claimed, would become a preferred place to visit for the large crowd visiting the city from various parts the country.
As part of the plan, the authorities have enclosed the ground space from three sides using metal sheets. This act has drawn widespread flak as the ground, located in the heart of the city, is the only option for holding public events like exhibitions, besides serving as a playground for young cricket enthusiasts and morning walkers.
The Irrigation Department has been asked to vacate the place on a war-footing and instructions on removal of other structures have also gone to the persons concerned. But there is no trace of commencement of works for the proposed project.
