The Andhra Pradesh government has decisively put the second phase of its ambitious capital city project back on the fast track. Following the successful launch of the Land Pooling Scheme (LPS) Phase II, which aims to acquire approximately 16,000 acres in the capital region, authorities are now moving swiftly to commission a comprehensive master plan for this next stage of development.
Global Expertise Sought for Capital Blueprint
With Singapore-based firms having withdrawn from capital city projects after the 2019 regime change, the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) has now opened the process to international competition. The authority has invited bids from leading global consultancy firms with proven expertise in large-scale urban planning and capital city development, setting a firm deadline of February 6 for submission.
This strategic move signals the government's clear intent to accelerate planned development and expand the capital footprint in a meticulously structured manner. Officials have emphasized that only firms with demonstrated capability in transformative urban projects will be considered for this crucial assignment.
Comprehensive Planning for Sustainable Growth
The Phase II master plan will establish a clear and enforceable roadmap encompassing multiple dimensions of urban development. According to sources familiar with the planning process, the blueprint will precisely define land use patterns, infrastructure creation timelines, and zoning regulations to prevent unregulated growth and unauthorized construction.
The consultant's mandate extends beyond spatial planning to include devising an economic plan for the capital city as part of the Phase II master plan. This integrated approach ensures that urban development aligns with economic objectives and sustainable growth principles.
Infrastructure and Zoning Priorities
The master plan will incorporate detailed provisions for:
- Zonal demarcation for residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, and green spaces
- Major infrastructure networks including road systems, mass transit corridors, and utility services
- Essential civic amenities such as water supply systems, sewerage, drainage, and power infrastructure
A key focus of Phase II will be the construction of two landmark facilities: a global sports arena and an international airport, positioning the capital as a destination of international significance.
Technological Approach to Urban Planning
CRDA officials have outlined that the selected global consultant will employ advanced technological tools including GIS-based mapping, satellite imagery analysis, and comprehensive ground-level surveys. This scientific approach aims to create a robust plan that anticipates future population growth patterns and economic activity projections.
The Phase II master plan will be seamlessly integrated with the existing Phase I layout, ensuring continuity in urban design principles and development philosophy. This continuity is particularly important as Surbana Jurong, the Singapore-based firm, had designed the master plan for the first phase of the capital city free of cost at the request of former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
Land Pooling Strategy for Orderly Expansion
The rollout of LPS Phase II represents a strategic approach to urban expansion. By pooling nearly 16,000 acres through this mechanism, the government aims to avoid haphazard development while providing landowners with developed plots, modern civic amenities, and long-term value appreciation opportunities.
Officials assert that the master plan will bring much-needed certainty to all stakeholders including landowners, investors, and developers, creating a predictable environment for sustainable urban growth. This structured approach to capital city development reflects a commitment to creating a world-class urban center through meticulous planning and international best practices.
