Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Riverfront Corporation Is Set To Auction of Prime Plots For Urban Transformation

Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (SRFDCL) is preparing to auction four prime plots along the iconic Sabarmati River. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in the long-awaited development of the riverfront, promising to unlock its real estate potential and catalyze significant urban and economic growth in the region.

A New Chapter for the Sabarmati Riverfront

The Sabarmati Riverfront project, which has been on the drawing board for several years, is finally moving forward with the issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the first phase of development. This move is anticipated to bring about a dynamic shift in the riverfront's real estate landscape, with a focus on creating a mix of retail, office, and hospitality spaces. The development of these plots is expected to set new benchmarks in terms of urban planning and real estate investment.

Details of the Upcoming Auction

The auction will involve four prime plots located on both the western and eastern banks of the Sabarmati River. These plots have been carefully selected for their strategic locations and potential to contribute to the riverfront's commercial and recreational appeal.

- Western Bank Plots: The two plots on the western side, near Vallabh Sadan, cover a total area of approximately 11,448 square meters. The base price for these plots has been set at Rs 23,676 per square meter. One of the plots near the Metro track (WGN-05) will allow for a built-up area of up to 60,000 square meters with a maximum permissible height of 66 meters. The specifics for the second plot have not been finalized yet but will follow similar high standards of development.

- Eastern Bank Plots: On the eastern side, two plots will be auctioned near Dudheshwar Dadhichi Bridge and Lemon Tree Hotel in Khanpur. These plots cover a combined area of 7,143 square meters, with a base price of Rs 19,982 per square meter. The plot behind Lemon Tree will accommodate a built-up area of 41,385 square meters, with a maximum height of 67.25 meters, while the plot near Dadhichi Bridge will allow for a built-up area of 65,600 square meters, reaching up to 76 meters in height.

In addition to the development rights, a 6-meter-wide arcade along the riverside is also proposed, which will enhance connectivity and accessibility, further improving the overall appeal of the riverfront.

Strategic Importance and Future Plans

The Sabarmati Riverfront Development is part of a broader vision to revitalize the river’s surroundings, turning it into a vibrant urban space that blends commercial activity with recreational opportunities. This development aims to create a unique urban environment that integrates modern infrastructure with the natural beauty of the riverfront.

The Gujarat government had earlier approved the Sabarmati Riverfront Land Disposable Policy in October 2023, which paved the way for this new phase of development. The policy divides the riverfront into value zones, each with set base prices for development rights. The initial plans included 17 plots across seven value zones, but the number of zones was reduced following a revision in January 2024.

This development is expected to not only enhance the city's skyline but also drive economic growth by attracting investment and generating employment opportunities. The auction of these plots is seen as a critical step in realizing the riverfront's full potential, setting the stage for future phases of development. 

Historical Challenges and New Opportunities

The SRFDCL has faced several challenges in advancing the riverfront project. Previous attempts to auction plots, including a major attempt in 2021, did not yield the desired results due to various hurdles, including high base prices. However, the revised approach and strategic pricing are expected to overcome these challenges and attract serious investors.

The auction of these plots represents a renewed effort to realize the riverfront's vision, capitalizing on the strategic location and development potential of the area. The outcomes of this auction will set new benchmarks for future projects and help establish the Sabarmati Riverfront as a premier destination for business and leisure.

The upcoming auction of plots along Ahmedabad's Sabarmati Riverfront signifies a major advancement in the city's urban development strategy. With a focus on integrating commercial, retail, and hospitality elements, this project aims to transform the riverfront into a vibrant and dynamic urban space.

Image source- Pinterest