Oct 11 2010, Chandigarh: The sprawling area in front of the Golden Temple is set for a makeover. The Punjab government is set to conduct an international design competition and the winning entry will shape the entrance to the holy Sikh shrine.
Talking to The Indian Express, Principal Secretary (Tourism) Geetika Kalha said the design of the plaza must complement the grandeur of the holy shrine and provide a befitting entry to it. The Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB) had invited proposals from architectural and urban design firms for the contest. It is learnt that 21 firms have submitted their ideas and concepts for the area measuring 9,410 square metres.
The board is hopeful that with top urban designers participating in the contest, the vacant space in front of the imposing, ornate archway of the main entrance portal will be aesthetically transformed.
A major challenge for the planners will be to integrate the design of the forecourt with the changed look of the historic core of the walled city. The space is now surrounded by a bustling marketplace, with the traditional architecture visible in the old buildings here
The board has conceptualised the competition in collaboration with the architecture department of Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar. The board has specified that the plaza must be developed as a premier civic space in Amritsar, which can serve as a venue for major religious and cultural ceremonies. The design firm can utilize the space underneath the plaza for providing an underground infrastructure and interpretation center.
Designers have been asked to ensure that the proposed design is equitable for all users and for adjoining businesses. The board is keen that the design of the new plaza must provide “a safe, secure and barrier-free environment that attracts public usage”. For this purpose, the plaza must ensure a high standard of landscaping, including shady trees for seating area and street furniture. Also, access must be provided for the vehicles of dignitaries.
The design firm has been asked to structure the space to respond to the key features and geometry of the city.
Designs submitted in the first stage will be assessed by a panel and the best of five will be shortlisted. The selected entries will be invited to take part in the second stage of the competition. The name of the final winner is likely to be announced in January 2011.
The top three entries will be rewarded with a prize of Rs 5 lakh, Rs 3 lakh and Rs 2 lakh, respectively, after completion of the final assessment.