The area where the proposed urban centre would be developed. Picture by Jai Prakash

Ultramodern multi-storeyed buildings would replace the dilapidated government quarters at Gardanibagh if the building construction department has its way.

The department has taken the first step towards an ambitious project that aims at developing a modern urban centre spread over 290 acres in the Gardanibagh area.

The urban centre would be a self-sustaining township. A preliminary project report prepared by Vadodara-based Karan Grover and Associates talks about construction of over 1,200 modern residential dwellings in multi-storied buildings. The buildings would be equipped with all modern amenities, including swimming pool, gymnasium, clubhouse, playground, parking facility and elevators.

The urban centre would also have commercial complex, including shopping malls, theatre, community hall, health and fitness centres. It would also have hospitals, schools, colleges and skill-development centres. The department would invite proposals to select technical consultant(s), who would conduct a study to determine the feasibility of the project. The indicative cost of the project is Rs 2,000 crore.

“We have invited bids from competent firms for conducting a study to determine the technical feasibility and financial viability for developing an urban township by re-developing Gardanibagh area. The project envisages development of modern government residential complexes on an area spread over 290 acres. The residual land would be suitably developed for commercial and institutional purposes,” said a senior building construction department officer.

He added that out of the project area of 290 acres, about 210 acres is available for re-development. “The selected firm would be awarded the contract by the end of April,” he said.

“The firm would be required to furnish the feasibility report in six months after the contract is awarded. If the project is found viable, it would be executed in public-private partnership mode by utilising an estimated outlay of Rs 2,000 crore,” he said.