Amritsar

City HRIDAY Plan

for
Amritsar
Volume II/V
City HRIDAY Plan

Prepared by:
CRCI (India) Pvt. Ltd.
in consortium with
IPE Global Pvt. Ltd.

for:
National Institute of Urban Affairs and Ministry of Urban Development

PROJECT TEAM
CRCI India Pvt. Ltd

Gurmeet S. Rai
Project Director and Principal Conservation Architect
Priyanka Singh
Project Coordinator and Conservation Architect
Antara Sharma
Conservation Architect
Amandeep Singh
Infrastructure Planner
Richa Pandey
Architect
Dhiraj Jasutkar
Architectural Intern
Neeharika Kushwaha
Architectural Intern
IPE Global Pvt. Ltd.

Urban and Environmental Planners

Oasis Designs Inc.
Urban Designers and Planners
Moushumi Chatterji
Museologist and Interpretation Specialist

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We sincerely acknowledge the valuable inputs and support rendered by the following individuals during
the course of this exercise:
Mr J M Balamurugan , Secretary, Department of Local Government, Punjab

Mr Anil Joshi, honourable Member of Punjab Legislative Assembly, Amritsar
Dr Navjot Kaur Sidhu, honourable Member of Punjab Legislative Assembly, Amritsar
Shri. Bakshi Ram Arora, Mayor, Amritsar,
Mr M S Aujla, Director Town Planning, Local Government.
Mr Ravi Bhagat, Deputy Commissioner, Amritsar
Mr. Pradeep Kumar Sabharwal, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Amritsar
Mr. Harjinder Singh Deputy Commissioner of Police
Mr Navjyot Randhawa, Director, Tourism and Culture
Mr. Sandeep Rishi , Chairman Improvement Trust, Amritsar
Mr Jasvinder Singh, District Town Planner
Mr. Hemant Batra, Senior Town Planner, Municipal Town Planning
Mr. P.K.Goyal, Superintending Engineer (Civil), MCA
Mr. Anuraj Mahajan, Superintending Engineer (Elect) , MCA
Sh. Parduman Singh, Superintending Engineer (O&M), Department of Water Supply and Sewerage, MCA
Mr. Navjot Singh, XEN (Civil), MCA
Sh. Sunil Mahajan, XEN (Civil), MCA
Mr Jagdish Raj, XEN (Civil), MCA
Mr. Navtej Singh, XEN (O&M), MCA
Mr. Harinder Singh, XEN (Civil), MCA
Surinder Sharma, SDO
Iqbal Singh, Junior Engineer
Raju Chauhan, Medical Officer of Health
Anil Arora, Estate Officer
Manu Sharma, DCFA, accounts Department
Madan P. Jha, Deputy General Manager, Map My India
Sh. Sandeep Singh Bajwa, Chief General Manager, Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board
Mr Dipinder Sandhu, Civil Engineer, Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board
Mr Manjit Singh, Chief Engineer, Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board
Mr. A.R. Mishra, Project Manager, PHTPB - IDIPT, PIU- Amritsar
Mr. Balraj Singh Kang, District Tourist Officer, Amritsar
Harpreet Bhullar, Heritage Walk Incharge
Mr Rajiv Sekhri, Superintending Engineer, Amritsar Improvement Trust
Sh. V.P. Singh, General Manager, PMIDC
Sh. Manav Jain, Town Planner, PMIDC
Mr. Jarnail Singh, XEN PMIDC
Mr. Narendra Sharma, Assistant Town Planner, Municipal Town Planning
Mr. J S Sodhi, XEN, PWD (B & R)
Anil Kohli, PMC- Urban Mass Transit Company Limited (BRTS Consultant)
Sh. V.K. Garg, Engineer-in-Chief, Punjab Water Supply & Sewerage Board
Mr. Bhupinder Singh, SDO, MCA
Mr. Satya Prakash, Senior Horticulture Assistant, Horticulture Department, MCA
Mr. R.P.Gupta, Chief Engineer, Water Supply and Sewerage Board
Mr. Anil Kumar Tandon, Water Supply and Sewerage Board
Mr S K Chawla, Dy Chief Engineer, PSPCL
Mr. Satinder Sharma, Addl.S.E , PSPCL
Mr. Bal Krishan, Addl.S.E, PSPCL
Prof Balwinder Singh, Guru Nanak Dev University
Mr Surinder Kochhar, Historian and Author
Mr Gunbir Singh, Eco- Amritsar, EcoSikh
Amritsar Vikas Manch
Virsa Vihar
Raghu Rai (for cover image)
Table of Contents
Volume I/V
1 PURPOSE OF CITY HRIDAY PLAN 2
2 AMRITSAR CITY 8
2.1 Introduction
2.2 History
2.3 Regional Setting
2.4 Physiography and Climate
2.5 Forest and Bio Diversity
2.6 Demography
2.7 Tourist Footfall
2.8 Economy
2.9 Tourism infrastructure
3 APPRAISAL OF HERITAGE AND CULTURAL ASSETS OF AMRITSAR 50

3.1 Introduction
3.2 Tangible Assets
3.3 Intangible Heritage
3.4 Cultural Heritage Mapping: the resounding themes
4 REVIEW OF EXISTING INITIATIVES 82

4.1 Review of Master Plans, CDP, Zonal Plans, Regional Plan
4.2 Existing Acts and Policies of Central and State Government applicable to the city
4.3 Organizations Impacting Development of the City and Organizational Structures
4.4 Review of proposed and ongoing projects
5 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS 156

5.1 Collaboration as a Driver
5.2 Meetings and Consultations with City Officials and MoUD
5.3 Consultations with Local Community
5.4 Planned Activities
6 PROJECTION AND INFRASTRUCTURE GAP ASSESSMENT (CITY LEVEL) 162

6.1 Tourist Projection
6.2 Broad Projection for Tourism Infrastructure
6.3 Broad Projection for Urban Infrastructure
6.4 Gap Analysis
6.5 Summary of Findings
i

Volume II/V
7 PRIORITISATION OF ASSETS 178

7.1 Significance of the Layered History of Amritsar
7.2 Heritage Zones
7.3 Existing Management Structures, Stakeholders and Planning Guidelines
7.4 Prioritisation
8 CIVIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 200

8.1 Theoretical Underpinning
8.2 City Level Strategy
8.3 ZONE 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone
8.4 ZONE 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
8.5 ZONE 3: Gobindgarh Fort Durgiana Temple Heritage Area
8.6 ZONE 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
8.7 ZONE 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
8.8 Specialist Consultancies/ Planning Policies required for successful implementation
8.9 Institutional Infrastructure and Collaboration- the cornerstone for reform

9 SHELF OF PROJECTS 310
9.1 Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

9.2 Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
9.3 Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort Durgiana Temple Heritage Area
9.4 Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
9.5 Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
9.6 Additional Project
10 INVESTMENT PLAN AND SOURCE OF FUNDING 320
10.1 Summary of Costs

10. 2 Committed Funds for Zone I
10. 3 Committed Funds for Zone II
10. 4 Committed Funds for Zone III
10. 5 Committed Funds for Zone IV
10. 6 Committed Funds for Zone V
10. 7 Convergence of projects for implementation through HRIDAY and other committed sources
11 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN AND MONITORING MECHANISM 332

11.1 City HRIDAY Plan – Vision and Implementation
11.2 Toolkits – planning and design
11.3 Procurement of Consultants
11.4 Projects: design, detailing and implementation
11.5 Community Consultations, Education and Outreach
11.6 Sustainable Management and Operation and Management

12 PROMOTION PROGRAM AND MARKETING STRATEGIES 364
13 STRATEGIES FOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE 378
ii

iii
chapter Seven
Prioritization of Assets
7.1. Significance of layered

history of Amritsar
7.2. Heritage Zone
7.3. Existing management

structures, stakeholders and
planning guidelines
7.4. Prioritisation
Prioritisation of Assets
7 Prioritisation of Assets
7.1 Significance of the Layered History of Amritsar

The city of Amritsar showcases the composite culture and secular heritage of ‘Punjabiat’. Embodied in the fabric of the
city and culture of the people is a rich legacy associated with a spiritual, natural, military and social heritage. The
evolution of the town over the ages and its association with some of the greatest historical figures of the region, have
given the town a particular ‘sacred and socio political geography’, typified by buildings and sites as well as routes and
processional paths.
In consultation with the local government of Amritsar and based on an understanding of the layered history of the
city, 5 priority heritage zones have been identified for the City HRIDAY plan. The Municipal Corporation for
Amritsar, as the City Mission Directorate, identified a list of 10 key sites of historical importance- and the identified
heritage zones take cognizance of this.
Figure 7-1 Important historic sites in the city identified by MCA as the City Mission Directorate
Further, comprehensive mapping of sites of cultural significance across the city show a concentration of historic sites
within the walled city of Amritsar and its immediate surroundings.
178 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

Figure 7-2 Mapping of sites of cultural significance across the city with a concentration seen around the walled city
CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 179

An appraisal of the identified sites of historical importance has been done in Chapter 3 of the report and is
supported by detailed information on each captured in a set of inventories provided in Volume IV:
Annexures. With an appreciation of the layered history presented by these sites, antiquity has been
considered as one of the indicators of value.
7.1.1 Period of Gurus (from founding to 1708) and Period of the Struggle & Misals (1708-
1800)
Central to the historic sacred geography of Amritsar is Sri Harmandir Sahib. As one of the 5 sacred sarovars, or water
tanks, constructed by the Sikh Gurus, it takes pride of place in the centre of the city, with the others situated around
it, with Ramsar, Bibeksar and Kaulsar to its south east and Santokhsar to its north.
Historically linked with these religious sites was the growth of the city through productivity (traditional household
industry) and trade and commerce . Amritsar is rich in arts and crafts traditions as well. Numerous crafts such as metal
work, chess boards, textiles, jewellery, dor/ manja of kites, carpet weaving, papad and warian making etc are closely
linked with the cultural imagery of the city. These crafts are actively produced in the streets of the walled city and
more recently in the industrial area. The city is an important trading town and caters to the needs of the region. The
economic vibrancy in the walled city can be said to be attributed to the trading activity and visitation by pilgrims and
visitors. Thus the historic specialized markets too has a potential to be upgraded as of visitor/ tourist interest. The
Sikh Gurus patronized the artisans and guilds of over 50 artisan communities settled in Amritsar during the founding
of the town. It was later in the 19th century that the city grew and developed into an important trading town. Amritsar
till date is known for its food and cuisine. It serves as an important market for the region. The walled city houses the
whole sale, retail market and the workshops of the artisans.
Several markets grew on account of the encouragement given by Guru Ramdas to a large number of artisans and
traders who came to settle down in the newly founded city. Guru ka Bazaar as one of the oldest bazaars still in
existence in the city, is of extremely high significance. The Khatris, also encouraged by the Guru, created the market at
Chowk Passian. While different parts of Sri Harimandir Sahib were being built during the times of the fifth and the
sixth Gurus, people from different cultures and castes participated in its making and settled in the city.
The composite culture of Amritsar can be experienced through the presence of Akharas (12 in number, 4 in close
proximity to Sri Harimandir Sahib), temples, churches, mosques and dargahs. These sites represent the theme of
‘Darshan’, or the sacred geography of the city.
Sacred Interfaith
Sarovars- Guru ka Bazaar
Sri Harmandir Sahib engagement - Historic city
Ramsar , - Traditional
Dargah,
Bibeksar Bazaars
Temple, Church
7.1.2 Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1801-1849)

Maharaja Ranjit Singh is one of the most significant historical figures in Sikh history. He founded the Sikh Kingdom
in 1800 and Amritsar was his summer capital. Numerous historic buildings in Amritsar are associated with him, the
key buildings being the Rambagh garden, the Rambagh gate and the Gobindgarh Fort,
He consolidated the city and it was under his reign that the fortifications of the walled city were built. The Rambagh
gate is the only surviving gateway of the walled city from his times. The city too, by design, transformed into a distinct
urban form during his period when it become an important trading town. The Rambagh garden was his summer
palace and is the only nationally protected site by the Archaeological Survey of India in Amritsar. The road
connecting the Rambagh garden to Rambagh gate and further to Sri Harimandir Sahib was used by the Maharaja to
visit the sacred complex. The Gobindgarh fort, a defense fortification, housed the Maharaja’s treasury and its
historical significance is rooted in its manifestation as the last defence bastion of Sri Harimandir Sahib and the city of
Amritsar. The Fort was handed over by the Prime Minister of India from the Army to the Department of Tourism ,
Punjab in a landmark decision in 2006 (see Volume IV: Annexure for transcription of the PM’s speech).
Rambagh Gate and

Rambagh Garden Gobindgharh Fort
Rampart
7.1.3 British Rule (1849-1947); Evolution of the water story

One of the starkest impact of the British rule to the landscape of Amritsar was the demolition of the walls of the
walled city and the gates. The wall was subsequently rebuilt with gates of a very different character which provided a
demarcation but little defense against invasions . This was a definitive attempt to erase the memory of the Sikh
King’s physical contributions to consolidating the urban fabric and protecting the city, that the high and robust
fortifications were demolished and its debris was used to fill the adjoining moat. This gave way to a very wide road
encircling the city which exists even today, known as the ‘circular road’. The colonial wall encircling the city with
reconstructed gates of colonial vocabulary is distinguished by pointed arches and flanking octagonal bastions. While
several of the gates continue to exist, fragments of the wall too continues to exist today though in a state of serious
decay and heavily encroached upon in need for concerted effort by the city planners or managers for its conservation.
Amritsar, and the larger Punjab, was introduced to mechanized systems of water sourcing under the British rule- these
form an important part of the industrial colonial heritage of the city which is integral to understanding the evolution
of Amritsar. Construction of a line of 40 wells (popularly known as 40 khuh) along with a large power house to pump
and supply water to the city was constructed after the ground water levels in the city centre reduced to levels unable to
sustain the needs of citizens. In due course, the Upper Bari Doab Canal was constructed for agricultural purposes,
which also supported hydro power production hence a power house. These sites form part of the natural and
material heritage associated with people, events and places from the colonial period – and it is recommended that
these be connected to the life of the city as part of the theme of ‘working landscape’ to be woven into a single
continuous historical and cultural narrative.
There are also several other buildings which demonstrate the Indo Saracenic architecture which though built during
the colonial rule have a distinctive regional architectural style. While buildings such as the Town Hall are colonial in
design vocabulary, the Khalsa College, the office of the Deputy Commissioner, the ITI building adjacent to the Hall
Gate, the Saragarhi Gurdwara and the Guru Tegh Bahadur Hospital (earlier known as the Victoria Hospital) are
examples of the Indo Saracenic architecture from Punjab. Bhai Ram Singh, the architect of several of these buildings
was from Amritsar and was acknowledged for his skills and design sensibilities by the powers that be during his life.
Upper Bari
Fortifications and 40 khoo, or 40 Doab Canal
Circular Road
Gates wells and power
house
7.1.4 Early 20th Century

The Durgiana Temple, also known by other names of Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Durga Tirath and Sitla Mandir, is a
Hindu temple of high religious significance in Amritsar. The original temple is reported to have been built in the 16th
century. It was rebuilt in 1921 by Guru Harsai Mal Kapoor in the architectural style of the Sikh Golden Temple.

7.2 Heritage Zones
The Master Plan of Amritsar recognizes a select set of the layers of history housed in the centre of the city, specifically
around the walled city. It identifies a ‘Conservation and Tourism Area’ (of the walled city) and heritage zones around
Sri Harimandir Sahib, Rambagh Garden and the Gobindgarh Fort.
Figure 7-3: Zones proposed in the Master Plan for Amritsar
In prioritizing assets to demarcate heritage zones, it has been important that neither isolated ‘main’ events that shaped
the history of the city nor the path of strict chronological pattern that deals with history in a linear fashion with a
single narrative tone has been engaged with. It is the unveiling and in some ways rediscovering the values that defines
the city and its people which is deeply mooted in spirituality that we use as a tool to unfold the meaningful layers of
the eventful journey through centuries. The thematic understanding and categorization of sites across the site
encompasses the fundamental and universal value of ‘Ek Onkar’ that binds the city and its history and each site within
a zone has been classified into essentially “5R’s”. These set the tone for the existing nature of the sites that exist
within a zone and provide critical direction to the tone of development opportunities that have been thus proposed.

Reverence: Spiritual connection and sustainable living mooted within the cultural landscape of Amritsar
Revelation: Unfolding the unique layers of urban fabric of Amritsar from its inception in the late 16th Century till contemporary times
Resonance: Celebration of cultural diversity and creativity of the people of Amritsar
Remembrance: Remembrance of the grit, valour and tenacious spirit to fight against the oppressors and acknowledgement of the
sufferings and loss of the people of the land
Reconciliation: To heal the scars of the past and embrace the profoundness of Nanak’s teachings that places a value on ‘Universal
Brotherhood of Man’.
Five heritage zones for HRIDAY have thus been identified based on sites of significance, while taking cognisance of
the layered history of Amritsar. These are:
o Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

o Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
o Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic Area
o Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
o Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
Figure 7-4: The Five HRIDAY Priority Heritage Zones for preparation of CIDPs (see chapter 8)

7.3 Existing Management Structures, Stakeholders and Planning Guidelines
Understanding the role existing management structures responsible for heritage assets and their surroundings is
critical for sustained management of the resource. While, Chapter 4 presents an in depth review of the several
organisations and policies which are applicable to the assets and their surroundings/ wider urban environment This
section delves into identification of various stakeholders engaged with assets in the heritage zones- whether through
ownership, operation and maintenance, or jurisdiction etc. For the purpose of establishing implementation strategy,
zone specific information on these important parameters has been delved into in this chapter. This will then act as a
prelude to detailed proposals presented in subsequent chapters and provide an authoritative background for an
informed perspective towards prioritisation of projects and implementation.
7.3.1 Zone 1
The Master Plan takes note that a large numbers of development projects have been/ being taken up for the
development in walled city by various parastatal agencies which require to have an integrated approach.
Comprehensive development which protects the historic integrity of the city fabric is the need of the hour (see chapter 4
for details of ongoing projects in the city). The Master Plan further states that it is critical to integrate all these projects within
a well-defined framework, towards which it recommends preparation of a Development Plan for Walled City
considering the huge amount of investments and number of development projects are being undertaken in the walled
city.
Absence of appropriate planning and design guidelines and inadequate enforcement reflect in growth patterns of a
city and this is glaringly evident in the case of the walled city of Amritsar- which has come to be characterized by
congestion, disorganized services (hanging electrical wiring are a safety hazard, as is the improper management of
storm water drainage), haphazard development (lack of regulating height restrictions, flouting of land use) and a lack
of regulatory guidelines on building use. Townscape values, the urban and natural environment and safety /risk
management are consequently severely compromised impacting the overall quality of life. Despite a distinctive
architectural and planning character of the walled city which is vastly different from the urban fabric present outside
it, the entire city of Amritsar is governed by the same building guidelines as per The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-
erection of Building) Bye-laws (First Amendment), 2004- Punjab Government Gazette, 2006. Development patterns seen in the
walled city also are not responsive to the recommendations in the Master Plan presented in Section 10.4.1 of the
notified Master Plan due to the absence of appropriate design guidelines and bye laws as a designated Conservation
and Tourism Area and Heritage Zone . Separate Bye-laws and Design guidelines responsive to the unique character
of the historic city are urgently required for the walled city to address its unique needs.
Key Stakeholders
i Municipal Corporation Amritsar
ii Improvement Trust
ii Public Works Department
iii SGPC
iv Private Stakeholders ( residents associations, community groups, private residences and others )
v Department of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums
vi Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board
vii PSPCL
viii Market Associations
ix Religious Institutions
x Educational Institutions

Relevant Planning Policies/ Documents

i The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-erection of Building) (First Amendment) Bye-laws, 2004-
Punjab Government Gazette, 2006
ii Master Plan for LPA Amritsar, 2010-2031, Punjab Govt Gazette notification 2011
Recommends the following in Section 10.4.1
 Development Plan for Walled City
 Designation of Conservation and Tourism Area (Walled city)
 Designation of Heritage Zones (pivoted around Sri Harmandir Sahib, Rambagh Garden and the
Gobindgarh Fort)
Supported by recommendatory guidelines for protection and development of the zones1
7.3.2 Zone 2
The following aspects require to be addressed to enable implementation of the projects for conservation of the
Rambagh garden, sustainable management of areas of heritage significance and infrastructure development in buffer
zone in the interest of the monument and the local community:
Interventions within the extents of the protected monument towards conservation, improved
landscape and provision of visitor infrastructure in the Rambagh garden
A conservation and revitalization proposal was prepared for the Rambagh Garden and approval from ASI was
received on this concept plan in 2007 (See Volume IV: Annexures 1 for Communication between DCAM and Archaeological
Survey of India (ASI).
The state level government agencies who are involved in implementation of the project at the Rambagh Garden are
the Department of Tourism, Government of Punjab (DoT), The Department of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and
Museums (DCAM) is responsible for the management of the museum housed within the Summer Palace of Maharaja
Ranjit Singh situated at the centre of the Rambagh Garden. The implementation of the project is with Punjab
Heritage & Tourism Promotion Board (PHTPB) who is the implementing body of works for both DoT and DCAM.
PHTPB has received grants from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India towards execution of this project
and has undertaken the conservation works within part of the garden complex.
PHTPB and DoT have worked together towards conservation and revitalization initiatives in the garden complex in
the past with necessary approvals from the ASI. This work has spanned over 10 years. The works already
implemented are structural conservation of the Summer Palace and Western Deori which was undertaken by PHTPB,
while ASI undertook the conservation of the Eastern deori (gateway) as a deposit work commissioned by PHTPB.
Other works already implemented are landscape of the SW and NW quarter of the Char Bagh (garden).
Works have been commissioned to civil contractors for the second phase of work which too has received necessary
approvals from the ASI (in September 2015). Furthermore, two proposals prepared following internationally and
nationally accepted principles for historic sites have been approved by the HNEC for implementation through
HRIDAY. These are for provision of a distinctive edge to demarcate the historic core of the garden from the
extended areas and second, for the provision of a parking for the visitors outside the historic core.
1 See Chapter 4 for details

It would only be appropriate if funds for implementation of a ‘comprehensive conservation and revitalisation plan’
for the entire garden complex is made available by Ministry of Culture, Government of India under the scheme of
ADARSH SMARAK ABHIYAN so that the people of the city are provided with a unique heritage recreational open
space with improved visitor amenities.
1.1 Landscape Improvement and Historic Edge Delineation of the Rambagh Garden, Amritsar – worth INR
1.87 crores (Existing DPR has been evaluated by the HRIDAY City Anchor)
Aim and scope of work: To define the edges of the garden as an important step towards reviving the spatial
configuration of the charbagh and highlight the layers of history within the extents of the larger garden commonly
called the Company Bagh. (See Annexure 3 for location plan)
It is critical to highlight the importance of edge delineation in its entirety all along the Char bagh. The DPR discusses
this in Volume I , section 7.2: Design Approach (and in the executive summary). An excerpt from this section
elaborates on this matter below:
"The swale and the boundary walls have been proposed in five different stretches SWI, SW2, SW3, SW4 and SW5. It is not
possible to complete the entire eight parts of the entire garden complex which would connect all four deoris and all four bastions/
watch towers due to the current usage and circulation pattern in the complex. Concerted effort should be made by the DCAM,
MCA and ASI to provide for the entire walled enclosure. "
Additionally, this intervention can be one important step forward for engagement of ASI for the operation and
maintenance of the historic core of the garden complex (the chahrbagh) as of today the garden is under the
maintenance of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar as MCA is the owner of the said property.
1.2 Provision of Multi-dispersed Car Parking in areas around the Walled City, Circular Road and Tourist
Destinations - – worth INR 1.13 crores (Existing DPR has been evaluated by the HRIDAY City Anchor)
Aim and scope of work: To provide visitor amenities at an important junction of the Company Bagh (SW corner) to
visitors to the Rambagh garden and surrounding cultural nodes, especially the garden and the museum housed in the
summer palace within as well as additionally for the food and crafts centre (at the building complex earlier the Guru
Tegh Bahadur Singh Hospital) and Namdhari Shaheed Smark to the immediate south of the garden boundary.
The protected property is much larger than the extents of the historic monument itself (See Annexure 2 for location plan).
The proposal for visitor amenities (parking of area 1.6 acres approx) has been provided beyond the extents of the
historic footprint of the monument. (See Annexure 4 for location plan). This is in line with accepted norms for heritage
sites at both the national and international level. It has also been common for ASI to provide visitor amenities inside
the boundary of the protected area, in areas which are not of historic significance. For instance at the Ellora Caves in
Aurangabad (which is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site) visitor parking is located in the foreground of
the main shrine of the Kailash Temple within the extents of the protected boundary.
It is further important to note that in the past, recognising the absence of historical significance of the outer parts of
the Company bagh, a large part of the bagh, along its north western corner was allowed to house the Maharaja Ranjit
Singh Panorama, a project funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Shared Sustainable Systems for Operation and Maintenance of the Rambagh Garden
As mentioned earlier, the garden in its entirety is owned of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar (provincial
government). The extents of the protected boundary include the historic Rambagh Garden (Area = approx. 35 acres)
which is situated within a larger area that had come to be known over time as Company Bagh (Area = 84 acres).

The garden in its entirety is under the operation and maintenance of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar but has
several stakeholders due to the varied uses that continue to be housed within this complex. To describe the key
stakeholders, the summer palace which sits in the heart of the complex is under the management of Department of
Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums of Government of Punjab, the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama is under
the management of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar; there are three clubs running out of several buildings
within the historic Chahrbagh, these are Amritsar Club, Service Club and Lumsden Club. While the entire complex is
notified under the AMASR Act only few of the buildings are under the management of ASI, these include the
southern and eastern deori, the four bastions , the Hammam and the baradari. In the absence of a consistent dialogue
based on a shared vision between all the stakeholders projects for conservation and landscape development have been
ongoing in a piece meal manner for several years (almost a decade). This has caused much resentment amongst the
local residents who use the space extensively as this is the most central, largest and green space in the city. The
HRIDAY project offers an opportunity to create the necessary platform to bring the project for conservation,
landscape development and buffer zone planning to fruition in a time bound manner.
An institutionalized platform for dialogue between the several agencies involved so that the Rambagh garden complex
and its buffer can be appropriately conserved, landscaped and developed with sustainable operation and maintenance
strategy is the need of the hour. One of the possibility for consideration is that Municipal Corporation of Amritsar,
ASI and DCAM agree on a Conservation Management Plan for Rambagh with jurisdiction of the historic Char Bagh
be given to ASI with all the historic built components, while the responsibility of development and operation and
maintenance initiatives in the periphery garden be with the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar under the guidance of
ASI.
Development guidelines for the buffer zone (300 metres) around the Rambagh Garden
The Ancient Monument Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR) (Amendment and Validation 2010)
stipulates a 300 metres buffer zone around the protected monument to be managed following norms and guidelines
which would ensure protection of heritage values on one hand (through establishment of 100m prohibited zone) and
heritage sensitive development in the subsequent 200 metres. The guidelines are required to be developed under the
guidance of DCAM where in the Director DCAM has been appointed as the ‘Competent Authority’ (described in the
AMASR Act). These guidelines are yet to be developed and require to be developed at the local level, endorsed by the
state level competent authority and approved by the National Monuments Authority.
Development of the southern edge of the Rambagh Garden is historic spatial character defining project component
of the City HRIDAY Plan in the immediate buffer zone of the protected monument which would restore to the
monument its historic spatial integrity. It is important to note that the historic southern deori, or entrance gateway, is
currently separated from the garden by a road. A BRTS corridor is under implementation along this southern edge as
a one way corridor. The BRTS project is an advanced stage of implementation. As part of the City HRIDAY Plan, it
is recommended that the lane be made one way for all vehicles so that traffic. Further the road separating the deori
from the garden can be stopped altogether. This intervention will enable the southern deori to be reintegrated into
the garden- hence restoring the historic spatial integrity of the historic Char bagh.
The historic processional route of Maharaja Ranjit Singh from his summer palace at the Rambagh garden through the
Rambgah Gate warrants attention. The CHP proposes interventions on this road to reinforce the connection with
Rambagh Gate as an important historic route and create an opportunity to physically and visually link the two sites
together thematically for a richer cultural experience. In this context, conservation, adaptive reuse and regeneration of
the surroundings (especially the rotary) of Rambagh gate are high priority projects proposed in the City HRIDAY plan
which directly contribute to urban generation and revitalization of historic nodes towards creation of identifiable
landmarks in the city – this project can be considered a demonstration project- one which would definitely be a
catalyst for change.

Key Stakeholders
i Municipal Corporation Amritsar
ii Archaeological Survey of India
iii Ministry of Culture, Government of India
iv DCAM with National Monuments Authority
v Department of Tourism, Government of Punjab
vi PHTPB
vii Private Stakeholders (clubs)
viii Public Works Department
ix Amritsar Improvement Trust (currently engaged in projects around Rambagh Garden)
x Department of Home
xi Department of Health
xii Ministry of Railways
xiii Residents Welfare Association /s
xiv Cultural Institutions (Virsa Vihar, Bhai Vir Singh Sadan, Thakur Singh Art Gallery)
xv Community based organisations ( eg. Amritsar Vikas Manch and others)
xvi Market Associations and vendors
xvii Religious organisations (Namdhari Community)
xviii Citizens (users of the garden complex)

i The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (Amendment Act 10 of
2010)
ii National Policy for Conservation of the Ancient Monuments, Archaeological Sites and Remains
(NPC- AMASR), 2014
iii Master Plan for LPA Amritsar, 2010-2031, Punjab Govt Gazette notification 2011
 Designation of Heritage Zones (pivoted around Sri Harimandir Sahib, Rambagh Garden and the
Gobindgarh Fort)
iv The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-erection of Building) (First Amendment) Bye-laws, 2004- Punjab
Government Gazette, 2006
7.3.3 Zone 3
The Master Plan also recognizes Gobindgarh Fort and its environs as a ‘Heritage Zone’ with specific acknowledgment
of Durgiana Temple in its vicinity. As previously mentioned, recognition of the heritage zone as areas which merit
area wide planning and heritage responsive building bye laws and design guidelines is currently lacking. After the Fort
was handed over by the Military to the Department of Tourism of Government of Punjab in 2006, PHTPB
commissioned preparation of a management plan for it. The Conservation, Management and Re-use Plan for
Gobindgarh Fort was prepared in 2010 and has been adopted by PHTPB for implementation works with funds from
a loan from the Asian Development Bank. The Management Plan addresses the need for protecting ‘townscape
values’ of surrounding areas around the fort and states:

The setting of the fort has been assessed based on

the historical values, the current use and possible
demands and trends in the future. Guidelines for
development have been recommended for the access
roads as well as land adjacent to the roads so as to
ensure that the development in the vicinity of the
fort is sensitive to the physical character and values
of the fort. Conservation and development of the
fort would be a catalyst for development in the area
hence a need to guide the same.
Figure 7-5: Cone of vision-red shows the existing view while
green shows the possible view of the bastions and the ramparts
Figure 7-6: Key access roads to the Gobindgarh Fort and existing surrounding development
Taking forward observations from this Plan, it would be prudent to anticipate increased visitation to this zone in
response to the conservation and revitalisation work being undertaken at the Fort so as to create a cultural heritage
destination for both the local people as well as visitors to Amritsar. Within this context, it is imperative to assess the
current land use, ongoing projects, respective stakeholders in the surrounding areas to ascertain challenges and
potential. Much of the land around the Gobindgarh Fort is owned by the Military. Infact the fort itself sits engulfed
by Military owned land on all sides. Dialogue with the Military Board for development initiatives and for protection of
the townscape value of the fort is thus, critical in this zone.
Current activities around the Fort include a Punjab Roadways workshop immediately outside its boundary. This large
parcel of land is largely unbuilt and used as a parking hub for buses. Relocation of the workshop and re-use of this
land for culturally linked activities/ programs have been recommended as part of the City HRIDAY Plan3.
As part of a large ongoing initiative to redevelop the environs of Durgiana Temple, Amritsar Improvement Trust is
actively engaged in funding and implementation of a multi storey parking in its forecourt. In the absence of a spill
over space for visitors, the presence of Gol Bagh (owned by the MCA) in the larger context of the zone is important
for its proximity to both the walled city to the south and the railway line (slightly distant) to the north. The railway line
is a critical feature defining the extents of the zone. Movement from the railway station is currently used from the
north (platform 1) . As part of improving mobility in the city and addressing issues of congestion- strengthening
accessibility from the southern exit (platform 6) with Gol Bagh as a pedestrian interface connecting the station directly
to the walled city is envisaged in the City HRIDAY Plan as of high impact. An ongoing initiative/ proposal for up
gradation of Rego bridge (see Chapter 4 and 11 for list of ongoing projects in the city), as one of the flyovers facilitating
vehicular movement from the station to the city to the south, illustrates the city administration’s recognition of the
need to upgrade linkages with railway station. This is possible through dialogue and due permissions from the
Ministry of Railways
Key Stakeholders
i Department of Tourism (ADB-IDIPT Project)
ii Department of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums (DCAM)
iii PHTPB
iv Public Works Department
v Military Board
vi Ministry of Railways
vii Shree Durgiana Management Committee
viii Amritsar Improvement Trust (currently engaged in projects around Durgiana Temple)
ix Punjab Roadways
x Municipal Corporation of Amritsar
xi Local Residents
i Master Plan for LPA Amritsar, 2010-2031, Punjab Govt Gazette notification 2011
 Designation of Heritage Zones (pivoted around Sri Harmandir Sahib, Rambagh Garden and the
Gobindgarh Fort)
ii Conservation, Management and Re-use Plan of Gobindgarh Fort
(This is not a notified document yet- it was prepared for PHTPB in 2010 and has been adopted by them for
implementation works at the Fort through ADB-IDIPT)
iii Relevant guidelines by the Ministry of Railways for development around the railway line
iv The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-erection of Building) (First Amendment) Bye-laws, 2004- Punjab
3 This suggestion was endorsed by City officials at the 2nd CLAMC meeting in Amritsar (See Volume IV: Annexures)
7.3.4 Zone 4
The gates, fortifications and markets/ green spaces along the circular road are largely owned by the MCA, with roads
under the jurisdiction of PWD. Department of Tourism, through the Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board
(PHTPB) undertook work to conserve some of the gates and add signage across the city so as to aid in way finding
through the project ‘Development of Amritsar as Mega Tourism Destination’ in 2009 and 2010.
The Master Plan for Amritsar recommends that the circular road requires strategic development to address improved
mobility and creation of a buffer to development pressures on the city. This is also reinforced in analysis and
proposals in the Comprehensive Mobility Plan for Amritsar (see Chapter 4 for detailed review of both documents). The
activity patterns between the gates are character defining though in the absence of defining development guidelines.
This therefore offers an insight into how the character of the edge has developed vis a vis activity patterns seen
within the walled city and in the buffer immediately surrounding it. For the purpose of study and planning, based on
current activity and usage patterns at these edges, 5 character zones have been delineated as:
 Rambagh Gate to Lohgarh Gate - Cultural Sites and

Institutions
 Lohgarh Gate to Bhagatnwala Gate – Residential and

Green Spaces
 Bhagtanwalla Gate to Sultanwind Gate – Sacred Area
 Sultanwind Gate to Mansingh Gate - Motors Market and

entry for Heavy Vehicles
 Mansingh Gate to Rambagh Gate – Informal markets

(Vegetable markets and tanneries)
Figure 7-7: Character zones along the circular road identifies for the
purpose of study and planning
Reclaiming public space on this edge would be an essential intervention towards redevelopment of the circular road.
Commercial development here has been promoted by MCA and is under its ownership, with a handful privately
owned and some shops adjoining the Sultanwind Gate owned by the Waqf Board (see Volume IV: Annexures for detailed
mapping of ownership and typology of shops along the circular road). These shops are single or double storeyed structures which
are identified in a detailed listing prepared by MCA as either permanent construction or khokas (temporary).
The proposed interventions are to facilitate mobility and provide open space for pedestrian movement for people
living in the walled city as well as the visitors. This is necessary to guide development in the context of the ever
expanding city and the increasing pressure on the walled city. The projects envisaged would contribute towards
creating improved environment within the walled city and Sri Harimandir Sahib complex .

Key Stakeholders
i Municipal Corporation of Amritsar
iii Private Stakeholders (shop-owners and market association)
iv PSPCL
v DCAM
vi Department of Tourism and PHTPB
vii Local Residents and Residents Welfare Association/s
ii Comprehensive Mobility Plan for Amritsar, 2012
iii The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-erection of Building) (First Amendment) Bye-laws, 2004- Punjab
Figure 7-8: Identification of shops and green belts on the circular road and possibilities for relocation towards reclaiming public space and
creation of a safer pedestrian friendly and vehicular environment

7.3.5 Zone 5
The site of open space along the Upper Bari Doab Canal ( UBDC ) is owned by Department of Irrigation and 40
Khoo by MCA 5 while the well built by Guru Arjan Dev in village Chhertta is on a parcel of land which is privately
owned. Currently underway along the UBD Canal is a project funded by the World Bank to augment water supply of
Amritsar. Projects proposed in the City HRIDAY Plan are to conserve the colonial heritage assets as well as to
provide the city with a much needed open space which is currently abysmally low at 0.88% (in a planned city it is
required to be at 15 to 20%). The heritage assets provide and opportunity for involvement of the private sector
through modalities of a PPP project which are undertaken by Punjab Infrastructure Development Board. The City
Mission Directorate could seek the support from this body.
Recently constructed and improved infrastructure in the city, especially elevated roads which have been constructed
through funding from JNNURM have generated unusual large underutilized public spaces below flyovers and elevated
roads. To avoid plaguing the city with such dead spaces, it is imperative to make efforts to convert these public spaces
into public assets. These spaces are owned by PWD and under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Council Bye-Laws.
One such proposal is part of the City HRIDAY Plan. The proposal is for an area under an elevated road close to the
Guru Nanak Auditorium (leading to the multi level car park in the walled city) and is recommended for use as an
educational activity space for children from the walled city who otherwise have very few areas for extra curricular
activities. Public art is recommended to be considered as a vital tool for rejuvenating these spaces and as part of an
education and outreach strategy for nature and culture education.
Key Stakeholders
i Department of Irrigation
iii Municipal Corporation of Amritsar
iv Department of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museum
v Department of Tourism and PHTPB
vi Department of Primary Education,
vii Department of Higher Education
viii Department of Technical Education
ix SGPC (for Cheharta Gurudwara)
x Punjab Infrastructure Development Board
xi Local Residents

ii The Municipal Council (Erection and Re-erection of Building) (First Amendment) Bye-laws, 2004-
Punjab Government Gazette, 2006
5 Confirmation with revenue records is required

7.4 Prioritisation
Based on the assessment of significance and review of management structure and past efforts in and around the
historic sites, an appraisal of infrastructure needs for prioritisation has been undertaken. While, details of project
proposals have been presented in Chapter 8, the overall guiding principles and aims are explained here to arrive at a
rationale for prioritisation of projects to be implemented within the current allocation of HRIDAY for Amritsar city ,
i.e., Rs 60 crore.
7.4.1 Priority 1
Amritsar’s urban expansion is pivoted around the walled city- characterized by high density development housing the
city’s centres for commerce, governance, and religion etc – all within a compact area of barely 2km x 2.5km - with Sri
Harimandir Sahib as the nucleus to all activity and growth.
Development and tourism pressures on the walled city are immense and have contributed to the fragile state of the
urban fabric and quality of life. Factors that create this highly vulnerable environment are the lack of a comprehensive
mobility plan, better up keep of roads, haphazard electrical wiring, storm water drainage and maintenance and
segregation of the network of storm water drainage from the sewage network.
The usage patterns within and around sites of significance and their ‘pull factor’ are also far beyond their carrying
capacities. In consequence, the walled city has witnessed a type of ‘ingrown development’; a sort of disturbing inverse
expansion. Critical water logging is witnessed in the area around the complex and specifically in and around the Town
hall, which sits on a low-lying area.
With regards to sound and air pollution, multiple loudspeakers are used for audio enhancement of the hymns sung in
the sanctum sanctorum. But, there are multiple cultural sites in the complex and at times there is a conflict between
these sound zones due to lack of coordination. The soft landscape of the Galiara acts as a buffer and prevents the
noise of traffic from penetrating into the site. However the increase in the volume of traffic, necessitates monitoring
of the impact of increasing traffic both by way of sound and air pollution. Additionally, the air quality data of
Amritsar from November 2001 to February 2002 indicates that the suspended particulate matter is about 370, Nox-17
and Sox-11 and the trend is that the air pollution increases during Diwali and other festivals.
The scale, concentration of people and myriad of activity patterns expose extremely overburdened spaces
which requires critical intervention to de-stress and de-congest. It is crucial to keep in mind that even
though the walled city constitutes only 2.5% of the total LPA in terms of area, it houses 16% of the
population. Thus, while interventions here would be concentrated to a small geographical area, their impact
would be on a large number of people and their quality of life.
With vulnerabilities focused in the centre and sites of significance also present within this same area and towards the
south, as described in the earlier section, a high priority area for interventions (because of high value; high
vulnerability) forms between Guru Bazaar, leading to Sri Harimandir Sahib towards Ramsar and Bibeksar and its
immediate southern environs (See map below).

Figure 7-9: Priority Intervention Zone within the Walled city
7.4.2 Priority 2
As the only historic site in the city of Amritsar protected by ASI, the Rambagh Garden stands as testament to the
significance of the site on a national platform. The notified master plan for Amritsar also recognizes the site as one of
the only green spaces in the heart of the city and as an important recreational and cultural node in Amritsar- one
which is in active use by the citizens of the city. Mapping of open spaces in the walled city for the City HRIDAY Plan
has confirmed this dearth of open space. Based on the survey, it is apparent that green spaces within this dense fabric
are practically absent and most open spaces, a majority of which are owned by the MCA, lie vacant or are used as
parking (See Volume IV: Annexures for detailed inventories). Thus, interventions towards revitalization of this important
asset with a sustainable system of management forms high priority.

The Rambagh Gate is the only surviving gate from the Sheher Panah , the fortified walled city built by Maharaja Ranjit
Singh, which was later torn down during British Rule. As an important historic sites facing crucial distress due to
growth of commercial markets on it and immediately adjoining it, it presents an opportunity for urban regeneration
through revitalisation of historic nodes towards creation of visual landmarks in the city.
Figure 7-10: The Rambagh Gate and the chowk and road in front
Figure 7-11: Mapping of open/ green/ vacant spaces in

the walled city and its immediate environs (Detailed
inventories are present in Volume IV: Annexures)

7.4.3 Priority 3
The Gobindgarh Fort stood as the last defence bastion to the walled city and Sri Harimandir Sahib from attempted
conquests from the Northwest frontier. As described earlier, extensive work is underway at the Fort by PHTPB
through a loan from the Asian Development Bank as part of the Infrastructure Development Investment Program for
Tourism (IDIPT) to the Government of Punjab towards conservation and development of heritage assets in the city.
A similar scale of work is being undertaken as part of the redevelopment of areas around Durgiana Temple. Such
comprehensive development initiatives will undoubtedly lead to the creation/revitalisation of a significant heritage/
tourism assets in the city. While interventions within the monument are underway, accessibility and development of
immediate surrounding to the site based on expected visitor footfall is required.
7.4.4 Priority 4
The significance of the fortifications around the walled city as a heritage asset are being considered low priority for the
sake of the CHP due to their degree of antiquity, authenticity and the fact that their integrity has been severely
compromised.
Interventions to improve mobility required on the circular road are, on the other hand, very high priority for the city.
Comprehensive development of a city mobility plan impacts urban expansion holistically and impact all other zones as
an interface between all, especially by reducing the stress on the walled city.
Feasibility of implementation in a comprehensive manner is a challenge due to various reasons. As is evident by the
various activities and stakeholders present along this edge (as described in the earlier section), a larger concerted effort
is required for comprehensive implementation- which may impede the project if proposed for immediate
implementation. Additionally, inadequate resources are available through HRIDAY in its current allocation for
comprehensive development. Greater dialogue, technical expertise and planning initiatives together will be mandatory
for successful execution of a city mobility plan.
The SMART city challenge offers a unique opportunity to adopt this proposal in its gamut for presentation and
proposals for January 2016. Convergence of projects under different schemes also showcases cohesive and
coordinated interventions in the city based on a shared vision (See Chapter 11 for more details).
7.4.5 Priority 5
The CHP recognizes the importance of developing and revitalizing public spaces in a city. It aims for rejuvenation
through proposals which enliven spaces under flyovers by utilizing them for display, public art, creation of children
activity areas - an initiative towards place making with a focus on the advocacy of the link between nature and culture.
The marriage of nature and culture is also tangibly demonstrable though revitalization proposals at the sites of UBDC,
40 Khoo and Cheharta Gurudwara.
Sites identified in this zone thus offer an opportunity to facilitate behavioural change towards 1: Creation of an
environmental consciousness and 2: demonstrate - through the use of innovation- possibilities for optimum utilization
of existing space/ infrastructure. This forms high priority as demonstrative projects to propagate long term change
and possibly impact the policy on appreciation, management and use of public spaces in planning guidelines.

To summarize, the guiding aim of proposals for each zone are:
The project components for the SMART city challenge for Amritsar have already been identified by the consultants
through intense and extensive interaction with the communities and stakeholders. The findings that have emerged
through these consultations have further reinforced the shelf of projects as well as the areas for intervention. The
walled city has been identified as the single most important area for intervention with the focus on improved mobility,
cleaner and safer city thus endorsing the prioritisation of projects in the City HRIDAY Plan.

Chapter Eight
Civic Infrastructure
Development Plan
8.1. Theoretical Underpinning
8.2. City Level Strategy
8.3 Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

8.4. Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational
Zone
8.5. Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort Durgiana Temple

Heritage Area
8.6.Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector

8.7. Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
8.8. Specialist Consultancies/ Planning

Policies required for implementation
8.9 Institutional Infrastructure
Civic Infrastructure Development Plan
8 Civic Infrastructure Development Plan

8.1 Theoretical Underpinning
“Preserve and revitalize the soul of heritage city to reflect the city’s unique character by encouraging development of an aesthetically appealing,
accessible, informative and secured environment. To undertake strategic and planned development for heritage cities with the aim of improving the
overall quality of life with a specific focus on sanitation, security, tourism, heritage revitalization, livelihoods, and retaining the city’s cultural
identity.”
-Project Statement for Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojna (HRIDAY), Ministry of Urban Development,
Government of India and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA)
In its articulation of infrastructure, the brief for the scheme also identifies that infrastructure is not limited to its
conventional interpretation as simply physical infrastructure. It distinguishes itself by emphasizing that projects of
HRIDAY go beyond to look into the domain of utility infrastructure, social infrastructure, institutional infrastructure
with culture and heritage as a key driver for economic growth and contributors to enhancement of quality of life of
the citizens.
Infrastructure development around heritage assets, as the mandate of HRIDAY, requires a unique approach to ensure
sensitive development of heritage assets and its buffer zone ensuring a balanced approach for protection of
authenticity and integrity of heritage, both tangible and intangibsle set within the urban landscape with that of modern
day infrastructure development paradigm.
The strategy for Amritsar, thus, is encapsulated in the understanding that development of infrastructure must
ensure protection of values and attributes of heritage and its ‘Eco –System’ to enable their sustainable use
by the community at large. Towards this end, a hierarchy of infrastructure would include:
i. Infrastructure needs within the heritage site

ii. Infrastructure needs within the setting of the site
iii. Infrastructure needs towards developing linkages between group and cluster of sites
iv. Infrastructure development to ‘de-stress’ heritage sites by creating “off –shore” infrastructure to service
the needs and demands on sites itself.
Figure 8-1: Types of Infrastructure Figure 8-2: Hierarchy of Infrastructure needs in context to Heritage sites

Taking this theoretical underpinning for recommendations forward, the history and culture of Amritsar offer guidance
to articulate the vision for the project. Embodied in the following quote from Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the approach
for the City HRIDAY Plan for Amritsar is steeped in the concept of sustainable development where it reminds us that
‘the entire humankind sits in the lap of nature for its sustenance’ and hence, planning principles must respect the natural
resources and be based and derived from systems which hold this knowledge.
Figure 8-3: The approach for the city is steeped in the marriage of nature and culture embodied in the above quote

8.1.1 Preparation of Civic Infrastructure Development Plans
Based on this theoretical underpinning, the City HRIDAY Plan and Civic Infrastructure Development Plans (CIDP)
for 5 Priority Heritage Zones have been prepared- these zones are namely,
o Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

o Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
o Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic Area
o Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
o Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
For the preparation of the Civic Infrastructure Development Plans for the five heritage zones, a methodology was
adopted where heritage of the city was identified, mapped and analysed to arrive at the needs for their protection,
conservation and enhancement for the benefit of the communities. Consultations were undertaken with the urban
local body, line agencies responsible for various aspects related to infrastructure and development as well as local
community.
Figure 8-4: Five Heritage Priority Zones for which individual CIDPs have been prepared
The projects for the CIDP have emerged based on a gap analysis was undertaken of infrastructure as it exists today in
the area of physical, social and institutional infrastructure. Proposed and ongoing projects in the area of sanitation,
drainage, waste management, approach roads, footpaths, street lights, tourist conveniences, electricity wiring,
landscaping etc. were examined. The Master plan and other planning documents were examined to identify the
proposed projects by the planning authority for the areas identified as the ‘priority heritage zones’. The CIDP
comprises ‘shelf of projects’ to achieve the long term ‘vision’ for the city which would ensure that objectives of the
HRIDAY project are achieved through a multi department / multi sector engagement of several departments.

8.2 City Level Strategy

Amritsar’s urban expansion has seen an outward growth anchored in the centre by Sri Harmandir Sahib. The Galliara,
as the immediate environs of the Holy centre came to be known, formed the first ring of built development. The
fortifications of the walled city created the second ring surrounding the holy centre and historic city that established
itself around it. While the fabric of the fortifications do not exist in their entirety on this edge, the footprint of this
edge exists today as an important ring of movement, activity, commerce and more, called the circular road.
The 12 gates of the historic fortification exist as key nodes and point of entry into the historic city. Activity patterns
are distinct between the gates and offer insight into how the character of the edge has developed vis a vis activity
patterns seen within the walled city and in the buffer immediately surrounding it.
The notified Master Plan of 2031 predicts development of several rings of roads which will surround the city as high
speed mobility corridors. This urban expansion is pivoted around the walled city- characterized by high density
development housing the city centre for commerce, governance, and religion etc – all within a compact area of barely
2km x 2.5km - with Sri Harimandir Sahib as the nucleus of all activity impacting growth. Thus, there is an urgent need
for planning proposals to work within a framework that anticipates mounting pressures on the walled city and
environs of Sri Harimandir sahib therein and formulates designs to de-stress this centre.
Figure 8-5 Rings of development around the holy centre and the walled city marked with points of access

Figure 8-6 Rings of high speed mobility corridors laid over a map from the notified Master Plan
The City HRIDAY Plan strategically addresses the expansion of the city in the context of these rings of growth.
Proposals for each heritage zone are bound together by an overall city mobility plan. The roads radiating out from the
centre and areas between these intersections thus, become critical focus areas for development and management.
Proposals for each zone are targeted on development of the radiating roads and these filler spaces. The project on the
up gradation of 21 roads in Zone 1 (i.e. all roads within the walled city leading to Sri Harimandir Sahib) thus, finds
precedence in the scheme as an opportunity for systematic interventions to protect the centre from environmental
pressures generated by ill planned development which create unmanageable sound pollution and traffic.
Recommendations have been made to enable improved rideability, better services and efficient traffic management .
Each zone becomes a component in this initiative to improve buffer areas comprising green belts with slow moving
traffic and decongested spaces with activities focused on improvement of quality of life for the inhabitants by
deviating from commercial activities. Proposals in Zone 2 and 3 aim directly at development of intermediate spaces,
while zone 4 focuses on up gradation of the high speed corridor. Through better planning and design interventions,
these zones thus are an important initiative in the urban planning scheme to develop a ‘cohesive historic cultural
environment’ which contributes to improvement of quality of life for the citizens of Amritsar. The initiatives thus:
 Expand the buffer zone

 De-stresses the core and
 Rejuvenates nodes/ creates opportunities for ‘off shore’ development
Need for Improved City Mobility as a Core Issue:

The Grand Trunk Road (GT road) is one of the most important linkages connecting the country east to west. The
Walled city has developed as production hub and commerce flourished inside thus positioning this part of the city as
the city center. The GT road was the main link to the walled city. The interaction between the GT road and walled
city is most prominently visible in the buffer area to the north of the walled city which currently also houses most of
the transport activities making the space very chaotic and pedestrian unfriendly.

Figure 8-7: The walled city and its interrelationship to NH1, aka the Grand Trunk Road
Impact of the division of the city because of the National Highway and the Railway Line
The railway line as well as the Grand Trunk Road divides the city into two parts- the northern part and the southern
part which have developed into different characters in terms of structure, morphology, issues and potential requiring
well-defined strategies for leveraging possibilities for future growth and development.
The Southern part comprises the walled city and further southern part of city has very dense fabric. The northern part
of the city is more new type of development with Ranjit Avenue and Airport area with well development
infrastructure and housing colonies with large scale plotted development.
Figure 8-8: The Railway line cutting the city across

Limited Access and Approach roads to the Walled City

In spite of several road connections leading to the walled city only few are used, which thereby create bottlenecks at
some area and create an unbalanced approach. The primary entrances used by the visitors coming to Sri Harimandir
Sahib complex and into walled city are:
- The approach from the railway station and the Northern part of the city to the walled city is primarily from a
single road which comes across the Bhandari bridge. This leads to creating a bottleneck situation at the
bridge as well as at the Hall Gate.
- The road near Chettiwind Gate is also used by pilgrims coming from the southern edge- this is largely a
pedestrian access.
- The ISBT located near Mahan Singh gate makes this particular gateway as an important connection to the
walled city.
- Tourists using personal approach from the Sheranwala Gate to enter the walled city.
This is limited access is further not helped by the fact

that the proposed BRTS corridor in its first phase also
does not connect to the walled city, and its network is
restricted to the North edge of the city A strong
feeder bus service is required, along with a NMT
linkages so that people approaching the Walled City
can benefit ftom this development.
Figure 8-9 : Proposed network of the BRTS for phase I
Figure 8-10: Points of disconnect highlighted in context to the proposed BRTS corridor and the Walled city

Proposed HRIDAY City Mobility Plan

8.3 ZONE 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone
8.3.1 Description
This zone encompasses the inner city that was once the walled city of Amritsar with its traditional markets and
neighborhoods leading into the centre of the city: the Amrit sarovar. Crowned by Sri Harmandir Sahib (The Golden
Temple), the Amrit Sarovar is one of five sacred sarovars (water bodies) that determined to a large extent the planning
and development of the inner city.
With an average of 50,000 daily pilgrims visiting the temple precinct, the old city is intense with movement and
activity, but the prosperity that once characterized this economic center is said to have diminished over the decades.
Further in the absence of timely investment in improvement of infrastructure and development policies sympathetic
towards its intrinsic heritage values has left severely depleted infrastructure and built fabric.
Figure 8-11 Traditional arts and crafts of Amritsar.
The sacred geography of the city also includes the four other holy tanks, Bibeksar, Santokhsar, Ramsar and Kaulsar,
indicating the strategic mobilization of labour and building of community consciousness around an essential resource,
water, by the Gurus. The building and work ethic, through the mode of karseva, is an essential cultural component
underlying faith in the region, and has been called to test many times in the history of the town, which was attacked
and destroyed, and rebuilt through community labour.
The evolution of walled city as an important market and manufacturing centre along the great overland trade routes; a
centre for manufacturing skills and fine craftsmanship, showcasing local expertise in embroidery and textiles; metal

work, especially gold, silver and copper;food products especially spices, pickles and preserves; wood and leather crafts,
especially musical instruments and chessboards.
Current popularity of its vibrant intangible heritage in the form of performing arts, cuisine etc has lent a unique charm
to Punjabi culture. Amritsar, as the cultural epicenter of the State, has great potential to tap into this pulse. Historic
and modern centres to preserve culture and archives through museums and libraries across the city lend to its cultural
dynamism.
8.3.2 Mapping of Sites of Cultural Significance: Identifying Attributes of Value in the Zone
Thematic mapping of sites of cultural significance in the zone provide

a comprehensive representation of the cultural landscape of the area.
Cultural significance is not only represented by historic monuments
and sites but also, cultural institutions, religious sites, traditional Sri Harmandir
Sahib
bazaars, historic processional routes amongst others.
The Walled city is saturated with tangible and intangible heritage from
across periods of history since the inception of the city. This richness
Sacred
is also reflected in the diversity of cultural heritage- from sacred sites Sarovars-
to traditional bazaars, historic social infrastructure and an entire streets Ramsar ,
Bibeksar
with sites of architectural significance.
Interfaith
engagement -
Dargah,
Temple,
Church
Guru ka Bazaar
- Traditional
Bazaars
Historic city
Figure 8-12: Growth of the Walled city across various periods in history Figure 8-13: Diversity of cultural
heritage in the Walled city

Figure 8-14 Sites of Cultural Significance as Attributes of Value in the Zone
Cultural Institutions within the walled city and in its immediate vicinity importantly contribute to the cultural milieu.
Some institutions exist while others have been proposed in the city- these are located on the map below.
Figure 8-15: Mapping of Cultural Institutions in and around the Walled city
Figure 8-16: Mapping of the historic and traditional bazaars in the Walled City (See Volume IV: Annexures for detailed inventories of
the bazaars)

8.3.3 Rationale for delineation of extents of zone
The environs within the walled city of Amritsar, with its narrow streets, dense built fabric, bustling market spaces, and
historic religious centers, reflect a character typical of most historic cities in India. The walled city as a zone has been
identified so, since the identified gaps, needs and opportunities presented are unique to this area as compared to
development beyond the historic fortifications.
Figure 8-17 the walled city divided into wards today (2015)
Figure 8-18 the walled city in 1870; Source: British Library

8.3.4 Infrastructure Gap Assessment
The needs of HRIDAY have been defined as Infrastructure

required for Protection of Values of Heritage Sites so as
to enable Sustainable Use of the sites by the community
or the ‘Eco-System’ at large.
Keeping this in mind in context to the types of infrastructure that

exist, analysis of features within the zone leading to proposals has
been presented in the table below:
S.N Existing Scenario Standards/ Guidelines Gaps Proposal

and Recommendations
by MPD/ CDP/ Other
ZONE 01 RAMDASPUR HISTORIC ZONE
Physical Infrastructure
1.1 Transportation/ Mobility Planning
Increasing motorized As the wall city suffers There is a need to plan Key Features towards
traffic has made the narrow from large influx of for pedestrian oriented traffic management:
streets unsafe for walking vehicular movement on traffic movement.
leading to congestion, narrow streets leading to The area around -Creation of vehicle
congestion.it is proposed Harmandir is under restricted areas around
Only one street leading to to pedestrianized the tremendous vehicular Golden Temple
Harmandir Shahib from walled city by improving pressure.
town hall is pedestrianized, streetscapes involving Due to lack of proper -One way movement of
due high no. of pedestrian provision of walkways , parking infrastructure on vehicular traffic
footfall. street furniture, plazas, the periphery of wall city
etc (Recommended in the and restriction on -Restricting any kind of
But there are multiple Master Plan in section parking inside the wall four wheeler parking
entries the Harmandir 10.6.8- Pedestrianization of city, all the wider roads facilities within the wall
Sahib and people approach walled city) are clogged up with city in future.
the temple from other parking.
roads also, but nothing
have been done for them.
no space for pedestrian to
walk due to encroachment
on road space by parking,
other street element like
pole, telephone poles,
electric poles, light poles,
dustbins, etc. do not have a
system of placement and

are placed randomly -
hampering the smooth
movement of pedestrians.
1.2 Streetscaping and Facility Planning with Pedestrian Friendly Environment.
There is lot of friction No equitable distribution As the wall city is within

created between the of road space, most of walkable and cycle able
motorized and non- the road is occupied by reaches, most of the
motorized movement of motorized vehicles. road sections are
traffic. designed for slow
50 % streets are less than moving traffic and
Due to lack of footpath 5mts ROW. pedestrian prioritized.
there is also conflict There is no distinction
between pedestrian and between street type and The type of intervention
cycle rickshaws character in terms of depends on the category
Currently only one stretch infrastructure provision. of ROW:
of street have footpath >10mts ROW:
which is appx. 1.5 mt wide Only the one street from PRIMARY STREET-
but have encroachment of Hall Gate to Harimandir 5 km
shops, light poles, dustbins, Sahib has a footpath. 5 mts to 10 mts ROW:
electric poles, water cooler, SECONDARY
etc., thus hampering the None other street have STREET- 15 km
movement of pedestrian any kind of footpath. surface differentiation
traffic. between traffic moving
There not adequate lights lane -3.5 to 4 mts width
Only Hall Gate till on the street , most of and pedestrian
Harmandir has few light the streets have lights movement with no level
poles but not in very good coming from the shops difference.
condition, other streets or adjoining built block,
have very few street lights, thus during late night < 5mts
most of the streets are most of the streets are ROW:TERTIARY
unsafe to walk through devoid of light and not STREET- rest of the
other than the one street safe. streets(not all) – 10 km
from Hall Gate to
Harmandir Sahib. The junction and one surface (not much
residual spaces are not intervention)
Hawkers are randomly designed properly for
standing on the left over organized movement of -All the roads are
spaces or near the main traffic and hawking. designed for speed not
chowks. more than 15 km/hr.
There is no system of -Provision of Multi

hygiene is maintained, the Utility Zone is most
area around is very dirty critical otherwise the
due to garbage throw in the above uses/
same area. components of streets
would encroach upon
There is no system of their the pedestrian, cyclist or
placement so no planning carriageway space which
of dustbins, seaters around have been provided in
it are done. the street sections
wherever possible.

-The junctions and left

out spaces need to be
identified and planned
for properly for hawkers,
with the material palette,
other amenities must be
planned for the
convenience of hawker
and systematic and
efficient use of space.
Utility Infrastructure
2.1 Solid Waste Management
The streets donot have Regarding primary waste There is no system of Provision for dustbins
many dustbins other than collection, somewaste disposal. have been included in
in road leading from Hall handcarts have been the proposal.
Gate to Harimandir provided, but there is no
The primary collection is
Sahib. concept of private
done door to door so There should be
dustbins. there seems to be no dustbins at at least 50
Other than the one requirement by MCA to meter distance and every
street, all the street solid By 2031, total 335 bins provide for dustbins street should have bigger
waste is thrown on the will be needed. within the city. So the collection bin at end of
streets or near the garbage is seem lying on the street towards the
junctions, or corner of the streets due to lack of outer ring road side.
the block. waste collection bins of
There are bigger bins at strategic location.
some strategic points but
they too are over full or
the solid waste is spilled
all over the ground.
There is lack of
infrastructure
2.2 Stormwater Management

There is a problem of Amritsar metropolis is Only few roads of wall Cleaning and
water logging in the wall highly deficient in city have stormwater maintenance of existing
city especially near Town provision of stormwater drains which are also in a storm water drains is
Hall and Jalliawalla Bagh. drainage network. The bad condition, they are proposed for all existing
walled city area has open not maintained thus have drain in wall city (15
There are few other areas drainage covering 1.63% gets choked creating km).
which also experience of the city roads. The water logging problem.
water logging. total length of To tackle the problem of
stormwater drainage Most of the roads in the water logging a network
required by 2031 comes wall city have open drain of storm water drain is
out to be 1931.7 km, which have been provided, integrated with
thus there is a need of encroached upon by the current drain.
installing 1921.7 km shop thresholds or stairs.
additional stormwater As all the streets are very

lines. It is proposed to In most of the wall city narrow, so all the drains
construct underground there is no stormwater are used for conveyance
pucca drains. drain, thus there is no of storm water to the
proper system for outside. For the doing so
rainwater disposal three type of sections are
leading to water logging. worked out depending
on the ROW of the
road.
2.3 Sewer
Some households are There are some missing The gaps in the system
connecting the sewer to links in the sewer leading will be identified and a
the stormwater drain, the people to connect segregated stormwater
thus further the sewer to the drain and sewer drain
contaminating the stormwater drain. should be provided.
stormwater.
2.4 Lighting (Electrical Lines)
There not adequate lights As per MPD total Only Hall Gate till Providing for street
on the street , most of 64391street lamps will be Harmandir has few light lights in 30 km of road :
the streets have lights required by 2031. poles but not in very
coming from the shops good condition, other 15mts c/c on alternate
or adjoining built block, streets have very few sides for Primary Road
thus during late night street lights. (5 km)
most of the streets are
devoid of light and not 25mts c/c on alternate
safe. sides for Secondary
Road (15 km)
30 mtc c/c on tertiary

roads (10 kms)
Social & Institutional Infrastructure

3.1 Lack of Interpretation; City Museum
Very basic directional There is no city museum Adaptive Reuse and
signage exists in the city. that shares and Development of the
celebrates the Town Hall as City
comprehensive history Museum to showcase
of the city and its the People’s Story.
citizens. Linking of event
calendars and
Museums and galleries in development of seasonal
the city are disconnected cultural activities.
from each other in terms Interpretative signage in
of event calendars. the city with sensors:
Sensor based apps are
Informational panels/ proposed around the city
signage is completely in which signals would

absent. be detected at select sites
through a smartphone
which could be used to
source more information
on a site/ traditional
market area etc.
The key features of the
interpretation strategy
included:
- Outdoor interactive
maps (in the
Museum Complex)
- Indoor floor plan
maps (in the
Museum Complex)
- Audio guided tours
(in the Museum
Complex)
- Interpretative
information (City
Level)
- Games and Add-ons
(City Level)
- Social Media
Outreach (City
Level)
- Programming (City
Level)
3.2 Lack of spaces for learning / activity spaces

Apathy towards Heritage
Schemes require that Development of Mobile

aspirations of the local App linked with the GIS
community be addressed Map
to garner community
support and The existing GIS Map
development through a may be completed and
participatory approach. updated with more
information on the city’s
heritage through
HRIDAY.
It is also recommended
that the youth of the
city, specifically
educational institutions,
be collaborated with to
conduct activities
towards collecting oral
histories for this app.
This would not only be

an important promotion
activity but would be
critical to induce
community participation
and appreciation
towards the
development activities
though the HRIDAY
project.
3.3 Cultural industries training institutions
None present.
Others
4.1 Building Bye Laws
There is random There are no separate Separate guideline
development in the wall building byelaws for should be prepared for
city due to growing Walled City. the wall city area.
pressure and
development pattern. The new byelaws should
prevent amalgamation of
plots, should restrict
height of building within
wall city be not more
than 3 floor or 10 mts.
Land conversion should

be done keeping in mind
the context like
proximity to heritage
sites or ROW of road.
Since the plot sizes are

too small, there should
be no setback regulation
and the front need to be
active frontage, with no
boundary walls.

Figure 8-19: Mapping of Educational Institutions in the walled city (See Volume IV: Annexures for detailed inventories of each)

Figure 8-20: Analysis of widths of Major Roads from the Walled city leading to the Golden Temple







8.3.5 Proposal
Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone is focused towards recovering dignity of place for both citizens and visitors
(leisure and pilgrim) in the core heritage area of Amritsar which is of immense cultural value. The historical narrative
of Sri Harimandir Sahib and the inner city coexist since the inception of both was founded by Guru Ramdas, the
fourth Sikh Guru. The walls of the city were built later in the 19th century. This inner city is steeped in intangible
cultural heritage - specifically traditional centres of production and commerce (bazaars and katras).
Via - 1: Creation of a secure environment (Risk Preparedness, improved mobility and streetscape development), 2:
Improved Utility infrastructure (towards better sanitation and storm water management), 3: Engagement of youth in
documentation of their own heritage with innovation (use of technology) for interpretation. 4: Education,
communication and awareness building (contribute to under the other towards peace and security)
Legend
Text Zone
Text Project
Text Sub-project component
ZONE 1: RAMDASPUR HERITAGE ZONE
S.No Project Components
Comprehensive road development and up gradation of 21 major roads leading to the Golden Temple
1 critically including interventions towards improved storm water drainage and streetscape and landscape
development and creation of a 300m buffer pedestrianized zone around the Golden Temple
1.1 Improved Mobility in the Walled City (Concept plan proposed in the CIDP)
1.2 Cleaning of existing storm water drains
1.3 Laying of storm water drains (as a combination of underground and surface drains responsive to road widths)
Streetscape and Landscape Improvement including hardscape and softscape interventions through surface
1.4 treatment of road, street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, and standardisation of building threshold and
drain design
Streetscape and Landscape Improvement focused on Chowk Improvement including surface treatment,
1.5
refuge island, bollards, softscaping, street furniture, dustbins, illumination scheme
1.6 Improvement of street façade through standardization of shop front signage by way of proportions and location
Public Convenience Module in open spaces (includes Toilet, Kiosk, play equipment, rain shelter, drinking water
1.7
facility, information desk, cycle stand, vendor area, seating space)
Façade Conservation and Structural Retrofitting (as required) of historic buildings of architectural
2
significance in the walled city
3 City Interpretation and City Museum at Town Hall

Conservation and Adaptive Reuse of the Town Hall as a City Museum to showcase the People's Story and area
3.1 improvement of its surrounding space into an interactive/ engaging one with provison of visitor amenities and
infrastructure
3.2 Development of Mobile App linked with the GIS Map
3.3 Interpretative signages in the city with sensors (directional, locational, descriptive)

Proposals for the Walled city
Figure 8-21: Understanding the scale of the Walled city in context to proposals to pedestrianize it

Figure 8-22: Creation of pedestrian friendly environment around Harimandir Sahib

Figure 8-23: Proposed Mobility Patterns in and out of the walled city with the area around Sri Harimandir Sahib highlighted as a
pedestrian zone

Proposals for the People’s Museum and Walled City Interpretation
While this section contains key images which illustrate recommendations, the detailed proposal for the People’s
Museum and Walled City Interpretation has been presented in Volume V.
Figure 8-25: Situating the proposal for the City Museum in context
Figure 8-24: Detailed zoning and movement plans proposed for galleries at the City Museum to be housed within the Town Hall

Figure 8-26: The Interpretation, Education and Outreach Strategy for the Walled city

8.4 ZONE 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
8.4.1 Description
Rambagh Garden was the summer palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh located on the north side of the inner city. Its
layout follows the cross-axial symmetry of the Persian garden known as the charbagh. Within its grounds are some of
the Sikh period architecture, including the summer palace at its center, deoris and munshi khanas marking the cardinal
direction, burjis, pavilions, chhatris, and a hammam. During the Colonial Period 1849-1947), the British occupied the
compounds of the grounds and reconfigured its spaces in a serious attempt to obliterate memory of Maharaja Ranjit
Singh and to undermine his legacy. They subdivided the charbagh into private clubs and a set a circular road within its
perimeter, thus severely obliterating the complex. The garden palace also came to be known as the ‘Company Bagh’
in reference to the East India Company that occupied the territories of the former Sikh kingdom from 1849-1857.
Rambagh Garden serves primarily as an area for leisure and recreation. The grounds today include a mishmash of
monuments along with new buildings, sports facilities, parking lots, private clubs, and the Maharaja Ranjit Singh
panorama. Though heavily used by the people of Amritsar in the early morning and late afternoon for walking and
exercising, the Rambagh garden has suffered from neglect and fragmentation. Recent interventions have structurally
retrofitted its principal historic buildings, and the on-going work is regaining some of its original design features and
elegance.
The importance of Rambagh Garden as a green lung for the city and as crossroads between different historic and
urban sectors cannot be underestimated. The garden sits at the confluence of residential areas, commercial
establishments, schools, cultural institutions, governmental offices, and Shaheed Bohr. It demarcates a threshold
between the Sikh and Colonial periods, with its surrounding neighborhoods serving as a visual chronology of the
evolution of the city. New misguided development, however, threaten the existing fabric and historic values of the
monument and its setting area, requiring an urgent articulation and implementation of zoning standards.
While the restoration of the Rambagh Garden, the Guru Teg Bahadur complex (the earlier Victoria Memorial
Hospital, built in the early 20th century), and the Rambagh Gate (one of the gates of the walled city also used by
Maharaja Ranjit Singh to visit Sri Harimandir Sahib) increase the visibility of the city’s heritage, a comprehensive civic
infrastructure development for the zone would also include the surrounding of the Rambagh Gate.
Therefore this zone, Zone 2 spans from Taylor and Queen´s road to the west, Joshi Nagar to the north, Shivala
Colony to the east, and Rambagh Gate to the south. The western side of Zone 2 is of particular importance given its
existing cultural centers: Virsa Vihar, the Thakur Singh Art Gallery, and the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama. Within
the Garden, the western side has impressively large trees and shade canopies.
An impressive BRTS currently under implementation will significantly impact the flow of movement around
Rambagh Garden. Stops are planned outside its northwestern and northeastern corners (Novelty Chowk and SSSS
Chowk) and southern gate, as well as the Government´s Girls School and Alexander School on the northwest and
southwest edges of Zone 2. The BRTS has the potential of either linking or sectioning off the historic garden precinct
from its surroundings. Concerted efforts are recommended to be taken to foster pedestrian access for ease of
connectivity between Rambagh Garden, its surroundings, and other heritage destinations and to enhance the potential
of BRTS as an asset for improved access to the garden complex.

Thematic mapping of sites of cultural significance in the zone provide a

comprehensive representation of the cultural landscape of the area. Cultural
significance is not only represented by historic monuments and sites but
also, cultural institutions, religious sites, traditional bazaars, historic
processional routes amongst others.
Mapping in Zone 2 has revealed the presence of various cultural and

recreational institutions on the western and southern edge of the Rambagh
garden. Thematic mapping illustrates the possibility to link the Rambagh
garden and Rambagh Gate and creation of a cultural zone on the western
edge of the Garden by physically and visually linking it to the cultural
institutions present on the edge. Figure 8-27: Historic Sites and the
processional route of the Maharaja connecting
them
Figure 8-28 Sites of Cultural Significance as Attributes of Value in the Zone

Figure 8-8-29: Proposed activity zones at the Rambagh Garden: including a Cultural zone, recreational zone around a Core Historic zone
surrounded by a Green belt
8.4.3 Rationale for delineation of extents of the zone
The Rambagh Garden sits as the nucleus of this zone. The site was declared a protected monument by ASI vide a
notification in 2004. As the only historic site in the city of Amritsar protected by ASI, the Rambagh Garden stands as
testament to the significance of the site on a national platform. The notified master plan for Amritsar also recognizes
the site as one of the only green spaces in the heart of the city and as an important recreational and cultural node in
Amritsar- one which is in active use by the citizens of the city The extents of the protected boundary include the
historic Rambagh Garden (Area = approx. 35 acres) which is situated within a larger area- which include a series of
colonial and modern period interventions- that had come to be known over time as Company Bagh (Area = 84 acres).

Figure 8-30 Features that determine the extents of the zone
The Rambagh garden along with the 300 meters around the protected monument (buffer zone as per the Ancient
Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 2010) demarcates the extents of the zone around the Garden.
Within this buffer are housed various cultural institutions (to the West of RBG) that have the potential to be linked to
the narrative, interpretation and recreational activities proposed within Rambagh garden. These have thus been
included in the zone for a comprehensive historic cultural experience in the zone.
The Rambagh Garden houses the Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. From his summer abode here, the
Maharaja would pass through the Rambagh gate to the south to enter the walled city- that he had fortified in his reign-
to pay his respects at Sri Harmandir Sahib. This link (as the processional route of the Maharaja) between Rambagh
Garden and Rambagh Gate is included in the zone as physically and thematically linked to the same period and
narrative.
The Rambagh Garden and its environs have thus been delineated as a zone with immense potential to be developed
as an important historic node for appreciation, education and interpretation of culture and nature for the city of
Amritsar.

Figure 8-31: Archival painting of the Rambagh Garden; Source: British Library Archives
Figure 8-32: Transformation of the Charbagh by 1870 (archival map of Amritsar); Source British Library Archives (left) & Company
Bagh today with the extents of the Charbagh delineated in red (right)

The needs of HRIDAY have been defined as

Infrastructure required for the Protection of Values
of Heritage Sites so as to enable Sustainable Use of
the sites by the community or the ‘Eco-System’ at
large.
Keeping this in mind in context to the types of

infrastructure that exist, analysis of features within
the zone leading to proposals has been presented in
the table below:

and Recommendations
by MPD/ CDP/ Other
ZONE II: RAMBAGH GARDEN RECREATIONAL AREA
1.1 Mobility Planning
The roads in this zone are There is a BRT Proposal In spite of public There is a one way
of important link between in this Zone. The BRT is transport in this zone no proposal of traffic
the Northern part of the proposed on Mall Road last mile connectivity is movement from
city above railway line and going towards the planned for, the roads Rambagh Gate to
the southern part below western end of the city other than the BRT road Rambagh Palace have
railway line. and the BRT runs in does not have adequate been proposed as the
front of South Deori of walking and cycling path. ROW is 14 mts.
Thus this area is congested Rambagh Palace going
due huge amount of traffic towards the eastern end. There is no provision of This will help in
get diverted on the Queens pedestrian friendly restructuring the section
road to Crystal Chowk to crossing facilities; table to provide for pedestrian
Bhandari Bridge and Hall tops to negotiate levels, facilities.
Gate. there are inadequate
street lights. There is a proposal for
These roads are not RUB to negotiate the
pedestrian friendly, people There is no strategy to railway line.
squeeze in between the connect the BRT to the
traffic to commute. Wall city by providing The traffic is re- routed
NMV lanes. to streamline the traffic
The streets are not Due to the railway track movement and also plan
pedestrian friendly. running in between the for pedestrian friendly
Due to the railway track wall city and Rambagh street.
there is traffic jam due to Palace, there is a

increase in waiting time. disconnect.
1.2 Road Realignment - South Edge Rambagh garden
The road in front of South The historic deori, or The traffic movement
Deori of Rambagh is a entrance gateway, is and BRT movement
bottleneck due to currently separated from have been proposed as
constricted road width. the garden by a road- one way movement, the
which is in active use- traffic lane have been
cutting across optimised to
accommodate
continuous walking
space.
As part of the City

HRIDAY Plan, we have
recommended that the
lane be made one way
for all vehicles so that
traffic on the stretch of
road separating the deori
from the garden can be
stopped altogether. This
would be a critical
initiative to reintegrate
the deori into the
garden- as an additional
initiative towards edge
delineation of the
historic Char bagh.
1.3 Junction Design
There is unorganized traffic As per MPD the Crystal Due to lack of road Road geometry is
movement at the junction chowk junction is proper road geometry worked out, to
in this zone. Due to it accident prone zone. the movement of streamline the traffic
being a bottleneck there is vehicles get hampered. movement.
tremendous traffic jam in
this area. There is no proper Element like bollards,
There is lack of tree which pedestrian crossing table top. Refuge island,
makes it difficult to walk in facility, table top pelican signal etc. are
the daytime. crossing, refuge island, added to design a
etc to regulate the traffic pedestrian friendly
and make the junction junction.
safe.
These junction have
Also in spite of the area been provided with
being rich in culture it street furniture, public
does not have any art provision, and other
legibility. element to make it
legible.

1.4 Skywalk
There is lot of traffic in BRT proposal moving Since the BRT is the Since the BRT is moving
front of Hall Gate. over the flyover near the closest near the Hall on top of the flyover it
Hall Gate. Gate and it being the one seems viable to connect
of the main does not the wall city with to the
have a BRT stop. public transport through
a flyover for easy and
safe accessibility to the
wall city.
1.5 Rambagh Garden Conservation and Facility Development
Company Bagh houses Development of the
various activities within periphery garden in a
its boundary. Character comprehensive manner
of the area is undefined to allow for a
due to visual anarchy of recreational zone to the
built elements. east and cultural zone to
the west.
(See end of section for map
showing various activities in The Char Bagh to be
the Company Bagh and conserved and
ownership ) revitalized in the centre
and given pride of place.
1.6 Lack of recreational/ open spaces
Amritsar severely lacks The master plan Rambagh Garden is one
open spaces for use by recognizes the lack of of the only large open
citizens. Development adequate public open spaces in vicinity of the
pressures, especially in the spaces / recreational dense fabric of the
walled city have left spaces in the walled city. walled city. It sits within
minimal areas to be There are various the larger extents of what
developed as open proposed/ onoing has come to be know as
recreational areas- within projects for creation of ‘Company bagh’- a
the walled city and its public open spaces in the development from the
immediate vicinity. (See end form of parks. (See end of Colonial era, deriving its
of section for map showing section for proposed name from the East
open/ vacant spaces in the recreational areas in the India Company.
walled city ) notified Master Plan) Past development
activities within the
Rambagh Garden has
been recognized in the
Master Plan as an
important open/
recreational space in the
city and an important
heritage asset. It is the
only ASI protected site
in Amritsar.
2.1 Provision for Visitor Amenities/ Parking at Rambagh garden
Development of Food and No provision of parking To provide visitor
Crafts Village to the south is available in the amenities at an
is underway at the earlier vicinity. important junction of
Guru Tek Bahadur Singh the Company Bagh (SW
Hospital. corner) to visitors to the
Traffic at this juncture is Rambagh garden and

thus expected to grow. surrounding cultural
nodes, especially the
food and crafts centre
(at the building complex
earlier the Guru Tegh
Bahadur Singh Hospital)
and Namdhari Shaheed
Smark to the immediate
south of the garden
boundary
Social & Institutional Infrastructure
3.1 Rambagh Gate Revitalisation and Urban regeneration
Due to insensitive As per MPD the There are no regulations The shops in front of
development and Rambagh Gate Junction for building activity in Rambagh Gate have
unplanned building is accident prone zone. the wall city. been removed.
activities have led to The gate will be restored
encroachment of shops in The junction in front of
front of the heritage gate will be redesigned
Rambagh Gate which has to make it pedestrian
heritage importance. friendly.
Lot of haphazard Other element will be
movement of traffic make add to make it legible.
the junction dangerous for
pedestrian activities.
3.2 Up gradation of Facilities at Virsa Vihar & Thakur Singh Art Gallery , Bhai Veer Singh Sadan
Lack of information Refurbishment of
services and finishes at
the cultural institutions.
Linking of activities and

calendar of events with
city level cultural
programs.
3.3 Rambagh Garden Conservation
Implementation under Configuration of the Remaining conservation
phase I is complete and Char Bagh is still of structures.
phase II is ongoing indiscernible and
structures require further Edge definition of the
work for comprehensive Char Bagh as an
conservation and important step towards
retrofitting. reviving the spatial
configuration of the
charbagh and highlight
the layers of history
within the extents of the
Company Bagh.

Other
4.1 Development and Building Guidelines for the 300 metres Buffer zone around the Rambagh Garden
The 300m buffer zone Policy articulation and Stakeholder Dialogue
around the ASI implementation on especially with ASI,
protected Rambagh ground is lacking. NMA and DCAM (as
Garden is to be competent authority)
developed in line with with MCA and
the AMASR Act, 2010 development and
implementation of
building guidelines
Figure 8-33: Mapping of the Proposed Recreational Spaces as proposed in the Master Plan for Amritsar

Figure 8-34: Mapping of open/ green/ vacant spaces in the walled city and its immediate environs (Detailed inventories are present in
Volume IV: Annexures)

Figure 8-35: Plan showing the route of the BRTS corridor all around the Rambagh Garden
Figure 8-36: Location of proposed multi-dispersed parking lots and visitor amenities at the Rambagh Garden

Figure 8-37: The food and crafts complex marked in orange in context to Rambagh Garden ,Rambagh Gate and the historical route
interlinking the sites
Figure 8-38: Ownership at the Rambagh Garden highlighting the need for an integrated Management Plan for the site





8.4.5 Proposal
Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone is centered around Rambagh Gate, Rambagh Garden, their historical
interlink ages (as the processional route of Maharaja Ranjit Singh) and the surrounding existing institutions for culture
and recreation with a mandate for urban regeneration towards place making/improved imageability
Via- 1: Physical and Institutional Infrastructure Development at and around the identified heritage nodes and
improving linkages between heritage sites and 2: Creation/ Designation of spaces for recreation and cultural
appreciation/ activities
ZONE 2: RAMBAGH GARDEN RECREATIONAL ZONE
1 Urban Design and Infrastructure for the buffer zone
1.1 User friendly Road improvement from Rambagh Gate till Rambagh Garden
1.2 Use Friendly Road improvement from Crystal Chowk till Bhai Veer Singh Sadan
1.3 Rotary Redevelopment
i Novelty Chowk
ii Crystal Chowk
1.4 Plaza Development
Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road geometry along the southern edge of Rambagh Garden* and
the development of a public plaza Including softscape and hardscape interventions with the provision of streetscape
infrastructure including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings and bollards. The plaza is proposed in
i
front of the proposed BRT bus stand and requires to be integrated with its construction and must accommodate
space for an IPT parking facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden as an important historic element of the historic Char Bagh is recommended.
ii Thakur Singh Art Gallery and Guru Nanak Stadium Plaza
iii Bhai Veer Singh Museum Plaza
1.5 Public Art
1.6 Skywalk
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal chowk parking (in the Rambagh garden complex) to the Food
1.7
and Craft Complex (developed at the site of the previously known Guru Tek Bahadur Singh Hospital)
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama’- improved visitor facilities, amenities, interpretative materials
1.8
and landscape
2 Urban Regeneration at and around Rambagh Gate
2.1 Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive Reuse - Existing DPR evaluated through HRIDAY
2.2 Adaptive Re-use and Development of Visitor Interpretation Centre at Rambagh Gate
2.3 Landscape development and monument lighting of Rambagh Gate
2.4 Rotary Redevelopment and Monumental Public Art (in the rotary )
2.5 Relocation of shops to reclaim critical public space and create a safe and efficient pedestrian environment
3 Rambagh Garden Conservation and Infrastructure Development
3.1 Conservation and Revitalization of the Char Bagh
Revitalization of NE and SE quarter of the char Bagh including providing pathways and planting with all
i
excavations, subbases and finishes
ii Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction of boundary wall and swale)
iii Conservation of North Deori
3.2 Revitalization of the Periphery Garden through Development of Visitor Infrastructure and Amenities
i Park development (all inclusive of planting, pathways, street furniture , street lights etc)
ii Musical Fountain
iii Toilet Blocks (complete with civil, plumbing and electrical works)
iv Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking
v Signage
vi Reconstruction of Tennis Courts
3.3 Reconstruction of clubs from within Rambagh Garden for relocation *
4 Development of Multi-storey Parking Lot
5 Up gradation of Facilities at Virsa Vihar & Thakur Singh Art Gallery , Bhai Veer Singh Sadan
6 Railway Under bridge (RUB)

Figure 8-39: Urban Design proposal for Zone II highlighting in red the location of the existing DPRs evaluated through HRIDAY for
immediate implementation

Figure 8-40: Indicative proposals for interventions in Rambagh Garden







8.5 ZONE 3: Gobindgarh Fort Durgiana Temple Heritage Area
8.5.1 Description
The area delineated in Zone 3 encompasses a variety of properties and uses. This zone is highlighted as an untapped
area of significant heritage value with tremendous potential for urban revitalisation. The Durgiana Mandir and Gol
Bagh, to the north of Logarh Gate and Hathi Gate respectively, are major city landmarks and points of interest. In
contrast, the rest of the Zone 3 has limited connection to the activities and economy of the city. Tucked between the
railroad tracks and Vijay Chowk is the extensive and partially abandoned Rail Road Colony of the British Period, with
the Punjab Roadways Workshop abutting to the south and the Gobindgarh Fort across the street.
The army’s handover of Gobindgarh Fort in 2006 heralded a new chapter in the city´s history. Few people have
ventured into the Fort or its surroundings, most of which remain under the army´s jurisdiction. A conservation
management and revitalisation plan for the Fort (2009-2010) was immediately followed by implementation of the
project that promises to turn the Fort into a major attraction for locals and visitors alike. Investment in the Fort must
spill over to rejuvenate the proposed Zone 3 in ways that facilitate the decongestion of the Old City, create a corridor
with physical and programmatic linkages to Zones 1 and 2, and infuse the city of Amritsar with spaces for creative
learning and expression. Zone 3 has several noteworthy examples of military and industrial architecture with values
that go beyond their historic, architectural, and aesthetic qualities.
The Durgiana Mandir, one of the city´s main religious sites, is an oasis of calm buffered on its western side by
buildings connected to the temples, smaller temples, and a side road with traditional shops and souvenirs are sold. Yet
at the end of this road, approaching Durgiana´s main northeastern entrance, once is confronted by the unseemly site
of half-demolished buildings. A large parking facility is being constructed between Hathi Gate and Durgiana Mandir,
which has and will continue to dramatically change the character of the area. A large new commercial building sends
an alarm for the urgent need to protect the remaining historic fabric of the area. Concerted steps are needed to direct
the flow of the new parking lot away from Durgiana Mandir, and create a serene transition into the sacred precinct.
Figure 8-41: Fortifications, gateways and moat at the Gobindgarh Fort

Thematic mapping of sites of cultural significance in the zone provide a comprehensive representation of the cultural
landscape of the area. Cultural significance is not only represented by historic monuments and sites but also, cultural
institutions, religious sites, traditional bazaars, historic processional routes amongst others.
The key sites of cultural significance in this zone are the Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple, while Gol Bagh is
recognized as an important green space offering immense opportunity for engaged use.
Figure 8-42 Sites of Cultural Significance as Attributes of Value in the Zone III
Figure 8-43: Gol Bagh (right) & Durgiana Temple (left)

Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple form the two main historic sites of significance in this zone. Gol Bagh as a
vital open space in the vicinity of these two provides opportunity for proposed recreational activities. The walled city
to the east and the Railway line to the north form physical boundaries for the zone, while the extents of military
owned land determine the edge of the zone to the east and south.
Figure 8-44 Features that determine the extents of the zone

The needs of HRIDAY have been defined as Infrastructure

required for Protection of Values of Heritage Sites so as to
enable Sustainable Use of the sites by the community or
the ‘Eco-System’ at large.
Keeping this in mind in context to the types of infrastructure

that exist, analysis of features within the zone leading to
proposals has been presented in the table below:

o and Recommendations
by MPD/ CDP/ Other
ZONE 03 GOBINDGARH FORT DURGIANA TEMPLE HERITAGE AREA
1.1 Mobility Planning
The road linkages in this As there is a missing link Rigo Bridge re-
zone are weak, and are not between the connection strengthening is
utilized. of northern city to the proposed.
southern city due to
The tourist coming from railway line. Creating avenue walks
the Airport have to come along the roads leading
to wall city through the The roads leading to wall to wall city- Loghgarh
Bhandari Bridge causing city in this zone donot gate with pedestrian
chaos at the Hall Gate . have traffic due to lack facilities to encourage
of connectivity to the pedestrian friendly
There road lack pedestrian northern part of the city. activities.
friendly environment with A street furniture palette
lack of tree avenue. The streets donot have is prepared to give it a
footpath or proper sense of place.
The railway station pedestrian crossing A Non- motorised
platform 6 road leading to facilities. vehicular track is
wall city is not used up to proposed from in
its potential. Due to larger chunks of between Gole Bagh to
plot there are no short- create a shortcut routes
cuts through the area. for easy movement of
Cyclist and cycle
rickshaws, which will
encourage people to take
this alternate route.

1.2 Railway Station Platform 6

The platform does not Railway Station Up Due to lack of awareness Proposal of information
have much footfall on this gradation proposal at the railway station, signages leading people
side in spite of it being people are not aware. to take the route to wall
closer to wall city. There not much facilities city from platform 6.
available on this side Proper multi modal
The options of modes of interchange facilities
transport are less should be provided.
1.3 Junction Design
There is unorganized traffic Due to lack of road Road geometry is
movement at the junction proper road geometry worked out, to
in this zone. Due to it the movement of streamline the traffic
tremendous traffic jam in There is no proper Element like bollards,
this area. pedestrian crossing table top. Refuge island,
There is lack of tree which facility, table top pelican signal etc. are
makes it difficult to walk in crossing, refuge island, added to design a
the daytime. etc. to regulate the traffic pedestrian friendly
safe. These junctions have
legible.
1.4 Visitor Amenities and Parking
Surrounding land currently There are no parking This will also discourage
owned by the military and facilities in this area for people from taking their
lies primarily vacant. the increase in tourist vehicles into the wall
footfall as anticipated city.
The surrounding land used due to Gobindgarh Fort
for stacking and sorting of to open as tourist This will act as an
timber, known destination. interchange point from
Locally as ‘cheel mandi’. where the tourist will use
different modes of
transport options to
reach the wall city.
1.5 Skywalk
Lack of proper By providing a skywalk a
infrastructure for walking, shorter route is created
does not aspire people to with pedestrian friendly
walk to wall city. environment is created
Also due to nonconductive without any traffic
climate and no short cut negotiation.
people tend to take an easy
option of motorised trip This will encourage
thue increasing the traffic people to walk from
for short distances also railway station towards
Gol Bagh linking the
Cultural hub at Punjab
roadways plot also.

1.6 Provision of Retail and Recreational Facility in areas around Gol Bagh ( land of Punjab Electricity
Board)
The existing shops in front The Punjab Electricity
of Rambagh Gate and the Board office (closed)
fish and meat shops near could be used to house
Rambagh Gate to be all the relocated facilities
relocated as unhygienic systematically with
health conditions are proper facilities to create
generated. hygienic environment.
Social and Institutional Infrastructure

2.1 Activity areas and educational opportunities in the zone at the land currently owned by Punjab
Roadways
There is an existing Extensive work was Development of 'The
The land is currently proposal to relocate the underway at Gobindgarh Quila'- Cultural Activity
occupied by Punjab current ISBT to land Fort including and Education Centre
Roadways near Valla Road with an conservation, adaptive for Youth' (HUB)
area of 11 acres where re-use and landscape
the Punjab Roadways development. It was
workshop could be proposed that the fort
suitable situated. would be opened to the
public in the near future
as an important cultural
site. It is important to
anticipate an influx of
visitors and prepare
strategies towards visitor
amenities and
infrastructure and
linkages with
surrounding sites.
2.2 Adaptive Reuse of SW Bastion as the Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation at the Gobindgarh
Fort as part of an international network of "Sites of Conscience"
The Conservation and Dialogue and a platform Centre for Peace, Arts
Management Plan for the for engaging with the and Reconciliation at the
Gobindgarh Fort also harsh violent history Gobindgarh Fort as part
proposed such a centre. Amritsar and its citizens of an international
have seen is currently network of "Sites of
This Plan has been absent. Conscience" to be
approved by the housed within the NW
Department of Culture and Reconciliation as a Bastion in the
PHTPB and phase I of theme offers a platform Gobindgarh Fort
implementation is nearing to understand critical
completion at the fort. periods in Punjab’s
history towards positive
future discourse.





8.5.5 Proposal
Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic Area is focused around an important religious centre
with high footfall- the Durgiana Temple- and an important historic fort, defined by the edges of the walled city (zone
1) to the east and the railway line to the north and the Military station to the south west
Via- 1: Access improvement to the heritage sites from the Railway Station and the Walled City, 2: Creation of
pedestrian public space with improved visitor amenities, 3: Creation of Institutional infrastructure specifically for the
youth.
ZONE 3: GOBINDGARH FORT AND DURGIANA TEMPLE HISTORIC AREA

Up gradation of all roads leading to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort including road geometry
improvement by providing dedicated tracks for cycle and pedestrian pathways with complete streetscape
1
development including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, green buffer belt, table top
crossings, signalised junctions, dipped crossovers and signage
Road geometry improvement by providing dedicated tracks for cycle and pedestrian pathways with complete
1.1 streetscape development including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, green buffer belt, table top
crossings, signalised junctions, dipped crossovers and signage
Rotary Redevelopment including surface treatments, elements signages, refuge island, bollards, reflective paint,
1.2
table top crossings street light, plantation and public art if any
Provision of Skywalk connecting the railway station platform # 6 to the walled city through the Golbagh; aimed
1.3
towards improving and increasing pedestrian linkages between the railway station and the walled city
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge connecting the entrance of Gobindgarh Fort to the Parking and visitor
1.4
centre situated across the road for safer pedestrian movement
Development of a vistor plaza in front of platform # 6 to promote use of this edge towards improving and
2
increasing pedestrian linkages between the railway station and the walled city [ land of Railways]
Up gradation of the existing Rigo Railway Over-bridge including bridge construction/ structural
retrofitting, surface treatment, streetscape improvement through provision of refuge island, bollards,
3 reflective paint, table top crossings street light, for efficient movement of all vehicular traffic through
creation of dedicated cycle/rickshaw tracks with safe movement paths for pedestrians [as recommended
by the notified Master plan of Amritsar for 2031]
Provision of Visitor Amenities and Infrastructure including parking for the Gobindgarh Fort and The
4 Quila to address current and anticipated visitor needs in the zone ( in land of Military adjacent to the
existing ticketing facility of the Gobindgarh Fort)
i Provision of visitor amenties, including seating, toilets and drinking water facilities
Provision of visitor infrastructure for security including low boundary wall with fencing, security guard kiosks and
ii
lighting with pedestrian pathways and rough ground surface treatment for parking
Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages through Streetscape and Landscape improvement at Gol Bagh in
select areas and environmental up gradation of the park and its immediate vicinity through softscape,
5
hardscape, waste management and organising existing drainage and electrical works [as part of Improving
access to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]

Development of 'The Quila'- a Cultural Activity and Education Centre for Youth' (HUB) as an interactive
institutional space for education and promotion of culture including contruction of centre with traditional
6 materials in a vernacular/ modern architectural vocabulary and creation of a pedestrian plaza,
development of semi covered spaces for outdoor activity and display with a provision for parking (Land of
Punjab Roadways)
Construction of main building to house the cultural activity and education centre for youth and all ancillary
i structures including finishes, plumbing and electrical services with traditional materials in a vernacular/ modern
architectural vocabulary.
Development of open area by creation of a pedestrian plaza including hardscape and softscape interventions and
ii
development of semi covered spaces for outdoor activity and display with a provision for parking
Provision of Retail and Recreational Facility in areas around Gol Bagh by relocating and reconstructing
8 shops from the outer circular road into a organised, possibly multi storey, hygenic semi-enclosed market
block with linkages to developed recreational areas (land of Punjab Electricity Board)
10 Conservation and Adaptive Re-Use of Gobindgarh Fort
Adaptive Reuse of SW Bastion as the Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation at the Gobindgarh Fort as part of
10.6
an international coalition of "Sites of Conscience"
Adaptive reuse of bastion into centre, including ground floor with provision for temporary mezannine floors and
i
improving connectivity to the terrace.
Development of open area by creation of plaza development with including hardscape and softscape interventions
ii
and development of semi covered spaces as a pavillion for outdoor display/ activity
Figure 8-45: Urban Design proposal for Zone 3



8.6 ZONE 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
8.6.1 Description
The Circular Road follows the trace of where Amritsar’s walls once stood. As the primary access point linking the
roads leading in and out of the Old City, it is a crucial transport area of dense activity and high congestion. Multi-story
buildings with a commercial ground floor predominate on both sides of the Circular Road, with informal sellers
doting the sides of the road. A parallel inner road circumvents most of the Old City´s perimeter. While the fabric of
the fortifications do not exist in their entirety on this edge, the footprint of this edge exists today as an important ring
of movement, activity, commerce and more, called the circular road.
The 12 gates of the historic fortification stand as key nodes and point of entry into the historic city. Activity patterns
are distinct between the gates and offer insight into how the character of the edge has developed vis a vis activity
patterns seen within the walled city and in the buffer immediately surrounding it. Based on current activity and usage
patterns at these edges, 5 character zones have been identified as:
- Rambagh Gate to Lohgarh Gate - Cultural Sites and Institutions

- Lohgarh Gate to Bhagatnwala Gate – Residential and Green Spaces
- Bhagtanwalla Gate to Sultanwind Gate – Sacred Area
- Sultanwind Gate to Mansingh Gate - Motors Market and entry for Heavy Vehicles
- Mansingh Gate to Rambagh Gate – Informal markets (Vegetable markets and tanneries)
Figure 8-46 Character zones along the circular road identified for the purpose of study and planning
While a feeder bus service on this route must connect the walled city with the city BRTS system, interventions are
necessary to provide pedestrian pathways and those for slow movement – for cycles and rickshaws as a continuous
passage for movement. Safe pedestrian connectors between the walled city and the outer area passing over the circular
road is also recommended. Decongesting parts of this road by relocation of shops built by the local government and
further other whole sale uses as recommended in the master plan would significantly contribute towards improvement
of the efficiency of this road as a major movement corridor.
Figure 8-47 The 12 Historic Gates of the Walled city
In the case of zone 4, some of the historic gates exist today and the historic wall is barely discernible and engulfed by
building activity. Mapping of the extents of the existing historic wall has been possible through creation of a
continuous photomontage looking from the outer circular road towards the Walled city as illustrated below.

Rambagh Gate to Hall Gate
Hall Gate to Hathi Gate
Hathi Gate to Lohgarh Gate
Lohgarh Gate to Lahori Gate

Lahori Gate to Khazana Gate
Khazana Gate to Hakiman Gate
Gilwali Gate to Chattiwind Gate
Chattiwind Gate to Sultanwind Gate

Sultanwind Gate to Sherewala Gate
Sherewala Gate to Mahansingh Gate
Mahan Singh Gate to Rambagh Gate

Internal Street_Rambagh Gate to Hall Gate

This zone has been specifically delineated towards addressing the needs of upgrading city level mobility. Development
of the edge of the city as urban expansion continues becomes a critical challenge. While this physical edge already
exists today as a mobility corridor, peripheral activities and lack of planned movement hampers the overall movement
scheme.
Proposals for zone 4 focus on up gradation of this circular road as a high speed corridor including adequate provision
for cycle tracks and safe and planned pedestrian movement.
The needs of HRIDAY have been defined as

Infrastructure required for Protection of Values of
Heritage Sites so as to enable Sustainable Use of the
sites by the community or the ‘Eco-System’ at large.
Keeping this in mind in context to the types of

infrastructure that exist, analysis of features within the
zone leading to proposals has been presented in the table
below:

by MPD/ CDP/ Other
ZONE 04 : CIRCULAR ROAD HISTORIC CONNECTOR
1.1 Mobiltiy Plan & Road Improvement
The outer circular road is There is no proper Traffic re-engineering

very chaotic and vehicular planning of the road – Explore options of
centric. section. redesigning the roads
There are lot of spill over The outer ring road is cross section to include
activities from the shop 30mts wide but there is 2-lane, 2-way BRT Bus
along the road leading to lack of pedestrian lane and one way 2 lane
unorganised activities. walking space. motorized lane to
There are lot of random Mostly encroached on by reclaim space to create a
placement of informal informal activities, light NMT track and
activities along the circular poles, seaters, etc. pedestrian plaza .The
road. walled city can be looked

There is lot of unorganised at one big round about .
space in between the old
city and outer ring road.
There is an inner road also
running within the wall
city.
1.2 Rotary Design - Lohgarh Gate,Hatti Gate, Hall Gate, Rambagh Gate,Mahansingh Gate,Sherawala
Gate, Chittiwind Gate, Bhagtanwala Gate and a few more.
There is unorganized traffic Due to lack of road Road geometry is
movement at the junction proper road geometry worked out, to
in this zone. Due to it the movement of streamline the traffic
tremendous traffic jam in
this area. There is no proper Element like bollards,
pedestrian crossing table top. Refuge island,
There is lack of tree which facility, table top pelican signal etc. are
makes it difficult to walk in crossing, refuge island, added to design a
the daytime. etc. to regulate the traffic pedestrian friendly
safe.
These junctions have
legible.
1.3 Public Convenience Module
There is lack of community There are no facilities The community kiosk
based activity within the provided at community will include includes
wall city. level within the wall city Toilet, Kiosk, play
There is no space for due to no availability of equipment, rain shelter,
children or adult to pass space. drinking water facility,
the leisure time. information desk, cycle
Very few children are seen stand, vendor area,
in the evening due to lack seating space, which will
of open space available. strengthen the
community living of the
area.
1.4 Landscape of Linear Park / Plaza
The present linear parks are These parks are bounded The parks will be
in a very unhygienic by solid boundary wall, programed and
condition, like left out thus reducing the integrated with
spaces. visibility of the parks. contextual activities; it
will be used for rain
The parks are not water recharge facilities.
programed to
accommodate daily Provision for kids play
activities. equipment, gym
equipment will be
proposed to involve the
community around it.

1.5 Dismantling and relocation of shops ( removal of encroachments) around the circular road
There is lot of chaos due to Shop relocation and
spill over of shops along redesign: All kiosks and
the circular road which is existing shops to be
leading to chaos. mapped, measured.
Detailed planning:
Some of these shops can
be made to face the
walled city peripheral
street and the back side
can represent the wall
(edge of the walled city).
Some ‘kucha’ shops can
be removed and
relocated to create a
pedestrian plaza with
new kiosks-coffee shops,
souvenir shop, mall
restaurants etc.
1.6 Historic Fortifications and current physical edge definition of walled city
The historic wall is barely Historic remains of the Structural stabilization of
discernible hidden behind wall (and its memory) are the remains of the
construction all around. severely threatened by historic wall (Sikh period
insensitive and and Colonial Period) and
unregulated development partial reconstruction of
along its edges in the wall to recover the
addition to rampant (memory) of the historic
neglect. edge.
2.1 Rain Water Harvesting (storm water along circular road into the open space of Gol bagh)
The Master plan The historic landscape of Management of storm
The water table of Amritsar recognizes the need for Amritsar emerged after water drainage has been
has reached alarmingly low other sources of water to the construction of the 5 a critical activity
levels with water supply be tapped for supply to sarovars, or holy water proposed for the city.
and ground water recharge the city as the existing tanks.
a major issue in the city. sources are proving Rainwater harvesting of
inadequate. Abounding with high storm water drainage of
water table, the the entire mobility
landscape was dotted corridor is proposed to
with wells. be done in open spaces
along the circular road,
Development has caused including in the open
depletion of water space Golbagh.
resource and lack of
areas for ground water
recharge and
incompatible planning
have aggravated lowering
of the water table.

8.6.5 Proposal
Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector. As an interface between all the zones, the circular road is a prime road
in the city which encircles the walled city. The road has the potential to contribute in a significant manner to address
mobility within the walled city and thus linking it to the larger city.
Via- Enhancement of the mobility corridor for vehicular movement further linking with one way traffic loops from
within the walled city. This would assist in reducing the stress caused by mixed and large volumes of vehicular traffic
around the Golden temple. This intervention would enable pedestrianization of inner parts of the walled city as well ;
2- provision of pedestrian walkways along the inner circular road to create pedestrian friendly environment including
provision of space for cycling; 3- restructuring the road to enable corridors for public transport; 4: provide skywalks
to connect the inner city with the heritage sites towards the outer periphery of the circular road; 5: conservation of the
remains of the historic wall and to reconstruct parts of it to recall the memory of the defined edges of the inner city.
Figure 8-48: Proposed strategy for development along the Circular Road

Figure 8-49: Strategy for development in Zone IV
Figure 8-50: Sample proposal
See Volume III-IV: Toolkits for Comprehensive Proposals for Zone IV

8.7 ZONE 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
8.7.1 Description
The story of Amritsar is that of its holy waters. The town was founded by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ramdas. He
excavated the first water tank of the area- the Ramdas sarovar which subsequently came to be known as the Amrit
sarovar. Several water tanks and water structures were built by the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev and later by Guru
Hargobind, the sixth Sikh Guru. The wells in Guru ki Wadali and Cheherta are those built by Guru Arjan Dev. The
40 khuh is a complex of 40 wells in a row which were the source for drinking water for the city of Amritsar during the
colonial period. Water supply to the city was also through a canal from the late medieval period and this legacy of
building of canals in Punjab is represented in the presence of the Upper Bari Doab Canal which bring water from the
river Ravi. Water is synonymous with Punjab, the land of five rivers though in the current times is a threatened
resource of the state.
Conservation of water as a natural resource, advocacy on both conservation and environment friendly planning and
development is the need of the hour. Statistics of existing open spaces as spaces for recreation has been found to be
very poor in the city. This heritage zone is an effort towards contributing a very meaningful intervention into the city
for its people.
Amritsar, and the larger Punjab, was introduced to mechanized systems of water sourcing under the British rule- these
form an important part of the industrial colonial heritage of the city which is integral to understanding the evolution
of Amritsar. Construction of a line of 40 wells (popularly known as 40 khuh) along with a large power house to pump
and supply water to the city was constructed after the ground water levels in the city centre reduced to levels unable to
sustain the needs of citizens. In due course, the Upper Bari Doab Canal was constructed for agricultural purposes,
which also supported hydro power production hence a power house.
These sites form part of the natural and material heritage associated with people, events and places from the
colonial period – and are recommended to be connected to the life of the city as part of the theme of
‘working landscape’ to be woven into a single continuous historical and cultural narrative.
Cultural institutions and roads (elevated and otherwise) connecting these sites have also been identified as areas of
opportunity and development which cohesively thus bind these ‘nodes’.

As part of de-stressing the center, individual sites across the outer periphery of city form elements of zone 5 that are
proposed to be conserved, upgraded and/ or revitalized as dots in the larger landscape to form the environment
Figure 8-51: Sites in Zone V
‘park’. The sites within this zone are link thematically and through signage and are not intended to link physically.
The needs of HRIDAY have been defined as Infrastructure required for

Protection of Values of Heritage Sites so as to enable Sustainable Use
of the sites by the community or the ‘Eco-System’ at large.
Keeping this in mind in context to the types of infrastructure that exist,

analysis of features within the zone leading to proposals has been presented
in the table below:

by MPD/ CDP/ Other
ZONE 05 ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES
1.1 Mobility Plan & Road Improvement

The road from Sherawala There are no footpaths Traffic re-engineering

Gate to GT Road leading on the street. – Explore options of
to 40 Khun is chaotic and The basic look and feel redesigning the roads
congested. of the street does not cross section to reclaim
It has lot of transport give a cohesive and space to create a NMT
related activities due to legible feel. track and pedestrian
cargo offices in the area. The junction are not plaza the junction will be
The Junction at GT road designed properly to redesigned with
unsafe for pedestrian and streamline traffic. measures to reduce
NMT users. The road along the canal traffic movement,
The road along the canal is not articulated to encourage safe
lacks character. respond to the canal. pedestrian movement.
Proposal of Railway
Under Bridge to tackle
the issue of congestion
and bottleneck created
near the railway track.
1.2 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and colonial period power house
The park near the railway As per Master Plan the There is no Redesigning the park
track is less famous amongpark is suppose be used programming done to and the landscape
the people due to its as Recreational and revitalize the park elements
extreme location. Green space.
Lack of awareness Parks should be
The railway track running among locals and tourists programmed to be
along the park remains have led to negligence. engaging and inspiring
close for long period of like Event Calendar of
time due to movement of There no tourist related activities throughout the
trains, thus making it facilities or amenities to year, public outreach
impossible to reach the attract people. program
park.
Enhance Recreational
The park is a decent park Opportunities – for the
but not utilized and common man – to allow
explored to it maximum. him to engage with city’s
natural bio-diversity,
heritage etc.
To spread knowledge
about the park
Help conduct
informative trips to the
park.
1.3 UBDC Canal and colonial period power house
Currently the canal is like a The area along the canal There are not walkways The section along the
dead space in the city. for 10 mts on both sides or cycle track along the canal will be designed by
have to be used for canal to encourage integrating the canal
The space along the canal recreational purpose. walking and cycling. edge with street with
has vegetation outgrowth provision of promenade.
leading to unsafe public There are no spaces
realm. along the canal to For eco-restoration of
promote pedestrian dirty drains and water
There is a road along the friendly activities. bodies and transforming
canal which has no relation them into green-

to the canal. ecomobility corridors
along the canal to reduce
dependency on
motorized transport and
use NMT.
Develop Safe and Direct

Non-Motorized
Transportation Facilities
for people to be able to
move around in the city
without having to
depend on their private
vehicles.
1.4 Cheharta Gurudwara

Currently houses a
Gurudwara and historic
wells built by Sikh Gurus.
The historic wells lie in a

state of neglect due to lack
of capacities towards
conservation.
1.5 Under-utilized/ under-developed Public/ Open Spaces

As with most spaces under Public spaces are often Development of flyover
flyovers across the country, underutilized due to lack reaching Sherawala Gate
it lies unoccupied. of planned activities/ is proposed as a ‘Culture
uses; especially vacant and Nature Education
In the absence of any spaces under flyovers and Activity Centre for
activity/ development, which present the Children’.
trucks and other heavy opportunity to be
vehicles have recently capitalized as critical The operation and
started to use this space for covered spaces and maintenance of this
parking. developed as public centre requires a
space for use of citizens business plan and can be
developed as a mixed-
use space- with parts
developed as open green
spaces, display / activity
areas and others for
commercial activity.
Proposals require a
balance between
commercial and non-
commercial activities
such that one is able to
sustain the other while
not over
commercializing
critical public open
spaces.
1.6 Lack of Infrastructure for cultural activities: Guru Nanak Auditorium

Infrastructure for Cultural A city survey of As an existing asset in
activities is very limited in educational institutions the city, a proposal for
the city. in Amritsar conducted up gradation of services,
by the HCA’s team refurbishment of
The Auditorium building is revealed that many finishes and interiors
partially occupied by the public schools within the was proposed along with
Municipal Town Planner’s walled city did not have landscaping and parking
Office cultural facilities within facilities in the open land
their campuses, in front of it to revive
The physical fabric suffers and the Guru Nanak the building and its
from lack of maintenance Auditorium was often environs for cultural
and incompatible use. rented out to these activities.
schools for functions.
Social and Institutional Infrastructure

2.1 Interpretation Centre for Environmental Consciousness
The Master plan The historic landscape of The centre is proposed
The water table of Amritsar recognizes the need for Amritsar emerged after at Chherta Gurdwara to
has reached alarmingly low other sources of water to the construction of the 5 showcase the Water
levels with water supply be tapped for supply to sarovars, or holy water Story of Amritsar (from
and recharge a major issue the city as the existing tanks. the Guru Period to the
in the city. sources are proving Canal building of the
inadequate. Abounding with high 20th century- towards
water table, the environmental
landscape was dotted consciousness and water
with wells. conservation).
Development has caused Rainwater harvesting

depletion of water and demonstration areas
resource and lack of will promote skills for
areas for ground water sustainable living.
recharge and
incompatible planning
have aggravated lowering
of the water table.
2.2 Appreciation and Education of traditional skills
Currently no such Any educational/ Bhai Ram Singh Crafts
institutions / activities exist training activity requires Institute for Skills
to garner pride and to be linked with an Development and
appreciation in traditional institutional Entrepreneurship (for
skills. infrastructure and traditional and
schemes that promote contemporary building
While commerce in the entrepreneurship skills) at Cheharta
traditional markets in the allowing for economic Gurudwara
walled city is founded on sustainability of the
these skills/ crafts, due to profession.
lack of economic benefits –
the art of production is
gradually dying.

Figure 8-52: Existing Activity at 40 Khoo

Figure 8-53: Existing Activity at the UBDC and the colonial power house
Figure 8-54: Existing Activity at Cheharta Gurudwara

8.7.5 Proposal
Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes aims to revitalize sites of natural heritage so as to create alternate sites
for cultural/ recreational activity through infrastructure development, landscape development and conservation .
These are positioned within a larger vision to facilitate behavioral change towards 1: Creation of an environmental
consciousness and 2: demonstrate - through the use of innovation- possibilities for optimum utilization of existing
space/ infrastructure.
ZONE 5 - ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES
S.N Project Components
Development of Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children through utilization of
1 space under flyover adjacent to the Guru Nanak Auditorium by creation of an Institution for learning with
display areas and spaces for commerce supported by the appropriate provision of visitor amenities.
i Re-working of road section and plaza development
Development of centre including areas for children's activity, display and commercial pockets complete
ii
with plumbing and electrical services and outdoor display lighting.
Public Convenience Module (includes Toilet, Kiosk, play equipment, rain shelter, drinking water facility,
iii
information desk, cycle stand, vendor area, seating space)
iv Planting
Up gradation of Guru Nanak Auditorium by relocating the office of the MTP and Refurbishment and
Provision of Services towards revitalisation of the auditorium as vital infrastructure for cultural activities
2
by educational institutions in the city along supported with area development and provision of visitor
infrastructure
Relocation of the office of the Municipal Town planner from Guru Nanak Auditorium to office of the
2.1
Municipal Corporation in Ranjit Avenue
Refurbishment and Provision of Services for revitalisation of the Auditorium as a vital infrastructure for
2.2
Cultural Activities along with Area Development and provision of visitor infrastructure
i Infrastructure up gradation of the building and refurbishment of services and finishes.
ii Creation of pedestrian plaza- including landscaping and floorscape with provision for parking
iii Interventions towards ecological consciousness – provision of rain water harvesting and solar panels
Revitalization and Infrastructure Development at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and Colonial Period Power House
3 including adaptive reuse and environmental upgradation of area supported with strengthening of access
between Sherawala Gate and 40 Khuh via GT Road through streetscape and road/junction improvement

3.1 Conservation, Revitalisation and Adaptive reuse of 40 Khuh, 40 wells and colonial period power house
Conservation and Adaptive reuse of colonial period power house into a visitor interpretation centre and
i
preservation of historic machinery towards a site interpretation and education strategy
Environmental up gradation in select areas adjoining existing park through hardscape and softscape
ii interventions including developing a promenade with pedestrian pathways, cycle paths and visitor amenities at the
40 khuh park
iii Provision of visitor infrastructure, , including parking, boundary walls, street lights, security kiosks and others
Interventions towards ecological consciousness through provision of Rain Water Harvesting schemes and
iv
demonstration areas
Road improvement, landscape development and provision of signage towards Access strengthening
3.2 (include provision of traffic lights at the junction between the 40 khuh road and the Grand Trunk Road)
between Sheranwala Gate and 40 Khuh
Development of an Environmental park at the UBDC Canal through soft and hardscape interventions
4
focused on canal edge revitalization and conservation and adaptive reuse of colonial period power house
Conservation of colonial period power house and preservation of historic machinery for interpretation and
i
education
Environmental up gradation through hardscape interventions including developing a promenade with
ii pedestrian pathways, cycle paths, visitor amenities and street lights with provision for drainage and canal edge
consolidation (for a 7m wide strip on the canal edge)
Environmental up gradation through softscape interventions with planting of local species of trees and
iii
flowering shrubs mirroring natural growth patterns towards creation of an environmental park
iv Provision of visitor infrastructure, including parking, boundary walls, street lights, security kiosks and others
Interventions towards ecological consciousness through provision of Rain Water Harvesting schemes and
v
demonstration areas
Infrastructure Development at Cheharta Gurudwara with a focus towards education and interpretation of
the 'water story' through conservation of the historic well, creation of interpretation centre. Creation of
5 Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (for traditional and
contemporary building skills) as a critical institution towards safeguarding and promoting heritage in the
city is recommended in the complex of the Cheharta Gurudwara.
Cheharta Gurudwara - Conservation of the Well built by Guru Arjan Dev and Area improvement (improvement
5.1
of the road)
Interpretation Centre at Chherta Gurdwara - Water Story of Amritsar (from the Guru Period to the Canal
5.2
building of the 20th century- towards environmental consciousness and water conservation)
5.3 Interpretative Signage for the 'water story'
Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (for traditional and contemporary
5.4
building skills) at Cheharta Gurudwara

Figure 8-55: Proposal for the Nature and Culture Activity Centre for Children

Figure 8-56: Strategy for Refurbishment of Guru Nanak Auditorium

Figure 8-57: Proposed Strategy for development along the UBDC (right)
Figure 8-58: Proposed extents of interventions at UBDC highlighting the GT Road and the colonial power house and machinery (left)

Figure 8-59: Conceptual proposal at UBDC

Figure 8-60: Conceptual proposal at 40 khoo

Figure 8-61: Conceptual proposal at Cheharta Gurudwara

8.8 Specialist Consultancies/ Planning Policies required for successful

implementation of the HRIDAY plan
Zone Intervention
Zone I 1. Development of Building Bye-Laws for the Walled City
(including protection of townscape values through guidelines to address amalgamation of plots/building heights/ land
conversion in context to proximity to heritage sites/ Holy Centre and/or ROW of roads)
2. Planning and Design guidelines for the 300 meters buffer zone around Sri Harmandir Sahib
(to create a more secure environment by creation of a pedestrian zone to improve the streetscape/landscape, air quality and
soundscape of the Holy Centre, embedded with a strategy towards risk preparedness)
3. Comprehensive mobility plan (with improved pedestrian and vehicular traffic infrastructure in the
heritage zone) integrated with the City Mobility Plan
(This mobility plan would be a strategic intervention in relieving development pressures on the walled city, in line with
recommendations in the notified Master plan through traffic management (creation of one way loops such a the one currently
present at Hall Bazaar), creation of pedestrian zones, especially around the Holy Centre. Risk preparedness plans should
also be ensured)
4. Provision for conservation and development guidelines for unprotected built heritage of
architectural/ historical significance
(Select public buildings as a demonstration project could be conserved and refurbished- with structural retrofitting
undertaken.)
5. Participatory approach to planning and implementation
(There is an opportunity to engage school children/ youth of the city to collect oral histories on the historic sites to be
included in the mobile app/ sensor based signage. Integration of information in the existing GIS Map (prepared by
MapMyIndia for MCA) as a common platform for information will provide value addition to this exiting city asset.)
6. Integration of attributes linked with heritage (such as mapping, typologies, condition with
photos) in the existing multi-layered GIS Map.
7. Preparation of Policy for Shop-Front Signage Design and Standardization.
8. Preparation of City Illumination Plan
9. Institutional Infrastructure: City Musuem for the People’s Story at the Town Hall

Zone II 10. Preparation of a Management Plan for Rambagh Garden (as the only monument protect by
ASI):
10.1 Development strategy within the extents of the protected monument towards
conservation, improved landscape and provision of visitor infrastructure in the Rambagh
garden
(The guidance and approval of ASI is required for projects aimed towards revitalization of the CharBagh of
Rambagh Garden and development of its periphery garden- especially the two existing DPRs evaluated through
HRIDAY for edge delineation of the Char Bagh and provision of parking near Crystal Chowk)
10.2 Shared Sustainable Systems for Operation and Maintenance of the Rambagh Garden
(Jurisdiction of the historic Char Bagh be given to ASI with all the historic built components, while the
responsibility of development and operation and maintenance initiatives in the periphery garden be with the
Municipal Corporation of Amritsar under the guidance of ASI.)
10.3 Development and Building Guidelines for the 300 metres Buffer zone around the
Rambagh Garden
(Development of guidelines by the Competent Authority, ratification by local authorities, approval by NMA and
notification by ASI, as per the AMASR Act 1958 and its Amendment in 2010). The impact and
integration of ongoing projects, especially creation of a BRTS corridor on 3 sides adjoining
Rambagh garden, especially its southern edge, is required (the CIDP and Toolkit for zone 2 present
details for solutions and recommendations for this issue).
11. Provision for conservation and development/ adaptive re-use guidelines for unprotected
built heritage
(Conservation and Adaptive Re-use of Rambagh Gate is a critical program in this zone, and an existing DPR for
refurbishment has been evaluated through HRIDAY. The local government is recommended to consider sustainable
mechanisms for undertaking conservation of public assets more specifically owned by local government and provide further
technical guidance to local community in this sector towards engagement and possibilities of revenue generation through PPP
schemes)
12. Comprehensive mobility plan (with improved pedestrian and vehicular movement in the heritage
zone integrated) with the City Mobility Plan
(Through creation of one way corridors to navigate between important sites in the zone – Rambagh gate to Rambagh
garden, integration with the proposed BRTS scheme, creation of pedestrian pause points and plazas for improved linkage
between sites. A multi storey parking lot proposed in the zone offers to address needs of parking nodes as part of the larger
City Mobility Plan. The Master Plan highlights that the Railway Line cuts the city across and recommends a number of
ROBs/ RUBs for better mobility- a proposal for an ROB reflects the recommendations of the Master Plan and dovetails
it into the shelf of projects for the HRIDAY Vision Plan)

13. Institutional Collaboration and Upgradation
(The local government is recommended to collaborate with the surrounding cultural institutions, such as Thakur Singh Art
Gallery, Bhai Veer Singh Sadan, Virsa Vihar and others to create a richer integrated calendar of cultural events in the
city and engage with improving infrastructure in the city for cultural activities - by recognizing their value as important
public assets)
Zone III 14. Comprehensive mobility plan (with improved pedestrian and vehicular movement in the heritage
zone) integrated with the City Mobility Plan
14.1 Improving link between the Railway Station and the Walled City
(through plaza development in front of platform no.6 which is currently under utilized and linking this -through
reorganizing connectivity in Gol Bagh- directly to the walled city. Up gradation of the Rigo Bridge is critically
required to augment traffic management from the railway station and its recommendation in the CHP also
resonates with proposals for the same in the Master Plan)
14.2 Traffic management and provision of parking nodes
(A parking lot proposed in the zone offers to address needs of parking needs of Durgiana Temple and GGF as
part of the larger City Mobility Plan.)
15. Collaboration and Creation of Institutional Infrastructure
(For cultural and commercial activities and skill development and entrepreneurship through ‘The Quila (Hub)’ and
Adaptive reuse of the SW Bastion of Gobindgarh Fort as part as part of an international network of "Sites of
Conscience".)
Zone IV 16. Comprehensive mobility plan integrated with the City Mobility Plan
17. Planning and Design Guidelines for development along the circular road as a high speed
mobility corridor , by reclaiming public space sensitive to the historic fortification wall
18. Guidelines for Environmental Up gradation/ Improved Sanitation in the City through Storm
Water and Sewage Management
(the network of water services from the walled city is recommended to be linked to sewage treatment plants and storm water
recharge pits in green spaces along the circular road)
Zone V 19. Guidelines for protection and development of environmental areas and creation of an
environmental consciousness through provision of rainwater harvesting schemes and demonstration
areas at UBDC, 40 Khuh and Cheharta Gurudwara
20. Provision for conservation and development/ adaptive re-use guidelines for unprotected
built heritage
21. Planning and Design Guidelines for Under- utilized public space, especially areas under
flyovers- supported by a strategy for operation and maintenance (balancing reclaiming public space

and creation of avenues for revenue generation)
22. Creation of Institutional Infrastructure and Interpretation backed by strategies for operation
and maintenance to de-stress the centre by creation of alternate self-sustaining opportunities
for recreation and culture in the city’s periphery
(at the proposed Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship- for traditional and
contemporary building skills- at Cheharta Gurudwara, Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children
under the Sherawala gate flyover, Visitor interpretation centres at UBDC, 40 Khoo and Cheharta Gurudwara and
refurbishment of Guru Nanak Auditorium)
8.9 Institutional Up gradation and Collaboration: the cornerstone for

sustainable reform
Interpretation, Education and Outreach Programmes which include the development of Institutions to play a role of
incubators for skill development and appreciation of heritage is a prime recommended feature in each zone. These
institutions have been proposed with specific mandates, with some focused on cultural and commercial activities, and
others towards skill development and entrepreneurship. A marriage of nature and culture is presented as a theme in
each of the proposed institutions.
Amritsar is rich with intangible craft and skill evident in its renowned traditional industries, with global appeal for its
performing arts as demonstrable expressions of the joie de vivre of Punjabi culture. While the walled city fabric is
characterized by its traditional specialized market streets and bazaars, or katras, engagement with artisans, craftspeople
and their environment for their sustained growth is currently deplorably inadequate. These small scale industries and
people’s skills require the support and encouragement through platforms to provide better infrastructure for display,
promotion and engagement with a wider platform to participate in innovative avenues for economic generation.
Lack of Recognition and Support to People’s Collective and Individual Initiatives for Maintained Growth
and Visibility can be addressed through providing meaningful support to the traditional institutional and
social infrastructure of the local community.
This requires a participatory approach to cultural heritage management through socialization with all stakeholders,
market associations, performing arts institutions etc to address needs and concerns and integrate them with a city/
state calendar of events, and with government development schemes etc to create better conditions – through physical
interventions, platforms for recognition and appreciation supported by economic drivers- the City Museum proposed
through HRIDAY integrates these concerns in its program.
To ensure sustained growth and change the outlook towards heritage as a dynamic resource for engagement and an
important driver to create livelihood opportunities, engagement with PPP models for operation and maintenance and
establishment of institutions not only for promotion and marketing but also skill development and entrepreneurship
cannot be highlighted enough. It is very necessary to ensure commodification of heritage is prevented. Proposals for
institutional infrastructure have thus been notably incorporated in each zone, especially zone 5.

Figure 8-62: Map of the five HRIDAY Zones highlighting the location of proposed institutions in each
Proposed Institutions in the City HRIDAY Plan
ZONE I
People’s Museum and Walled City Interpretation
Recommended Location: The historic building of Town Hall is appropriately situated, both contextually and
spatially, for developing it as a ‘People’s Museum’. The People’s Museum is envisioned to serve as a nodal
orientation point for the city and also aims to cohesively support the exploration of the thematic trails into the
walled city and peripheral area, for enhanced understanding of the collective history and memory of the place and
its people. Through an elaborative strategy of signage and Apps technology, an attempt has been made to take the
interpretation out into the living spaces and promote the idea of “museums without walls”. The use technology
as a tool intends to serve as a value added experience for the audiences by engaging interest in interpretation.
Mandate :
- To bring the city to rediscover its own self and build meaningful associations with the locals, visitors and the
larger international community, as a powerful tool in the form of a city museum ‘beyond walls’.
- To promote cultural reinvigoration and revitalization of the city, encouraging participatory engagement with
various stakeholders and promoting educative and knowledge driven programmes and cultural activities that
help engage local cultural practitioners and other multi-disciplinary subject experts with the public.
(See Volume V: Concept Plan for People’s Museum and Walled City Interpretation for details)

ZONE II
Up gradation of facilities and Improving linkages between Thakur Singh Art Gallery, Bhai Veer Singh
Sadan and Virsa Vihar (including Inter-Institutional Collaboration)
Visitor Interpretation Centre at Rambagh Gate
Recommended Location: Interventions are proposed at existing cultural and recreational institutions around the
Rambagh Garden specifically at : Thakur Singh Art Gallery, Bhai Veer Singh Sadan and Virsa Vihar
& a Visitor Interpretation Centre is recommended to be housed in the Rambagh Gate after its conservation and
adaptive reuse work has finished1
Mandate:
Creation of a Cultural Zone around Rambagh garden through:
- up gradation of facilities at the existing institutions for more robust use
- interventions in their surroundings for improved connectivity (both physical and visual) between cultural sites
and institutions
- collaboration to create a richer integrated calendar of cultural events in the city
Visitor Interpretation Centre at Rambagh Gate

- Dissemination of information on the city, history, cultural activities in the city etc
- Space for cultural appreciation within the setting of a historic building – one of the only remains of Maharaja
Ranjit Singh’s Shehar Panah
ZONE III
‘The Quila (HUB)’ and,
Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation as part of the ‘International Coalition of Sites of Conscience’
Recommended Location:
- ‘The Quila (Hub)’ in the land in front of the Visitor centre and parking of GGF (owned by Punjab Roadways)
- Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation at the SW Bastion of the Gobindgarh Fort
Mandate:
‘The Quila (Hub)’
- To be developed as a Cultural Activity and Education Centre for Youth housing spaces for cultural and
commercial activities and skill development and entrepreneurship
- Proposed in the vicinity of Gobindgarh Fort as a supporting space for cultural activity and engagement
Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation at the Gobindgarh Fort

- Dialogue and a platform for engaging with the harsh violent history Amritsar and its citizens have seen is
currently absent. Reconciliation as a theme offers a platform to understand critical periods in Punjab’s history
towards positive future discourse.
- To de developed as an artist’s residency and display area
- As part of the ‘International Coalition of Sites of Conscience’ which highlights engagement with ‘memory’
through ‘dialogue’ and action’
1The existing DPR for conservation and adaptive re-use for Rambagh gate has been approved by the HRIDAY National
Empowered Committee for implementation through HRIDAY
ZONE IV
Public Art
- At rotaries, junctions, edges etc
Mandate:
Towards promotion of display areas and art installations in public spaces and engagement of local artists and the
youth as active participants in the city’s efforts towards urban regeneration activities/ place making
ZONE V
Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship
Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children
Visitor Interpretation Centers
Refurbishment of Guru Nanak Auditorium
- Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship at Cheharta Gurudwara
- Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children under the Sherawala gate flyover
- Visitor Interpretation Centers at UBDC, 40 Khoo and Cheharta Gurudwara
- Refurbishment of Guru Nanak Auditorium
Mandate:
Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship
- Proposed as an institution which foster education and appreciation of traditional skills and crafts (an
intervention required to counter the severe dearth of such institutions and informal engagements- to safeguard
traditional skills and bring)
- Offer a platform where skill development is linked with schemes/ opportunities/ education towards
entrepreneurship allowing for economic sustainability of the profession
Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children

- Public spaces are often underutilized due to lack of planned activities/ uses; especially vacant spaces under
flyovers which present the opportunity to be capitalized as critical covered spaces and developed as public space
for use of citizens
- To demonstrate possibilities to develop underutilized public open space and convert them into public assets
- To be developed as mixed-use space- with parts developed as open green spaces, public art display spaces,
children’s activity areas and spaces for commercial activity. Proposals require a balance between commercial
and non-commercial activities such that one is able to sustain the other while not over commercializing critical
public open spaces
Visitor Interpretation Centers
- Dissemination of information on the site, history, natural and cultural heritage etc
- Space for interpretation, education and cultural appreciation (within the setting of a historic building-in the case
of the colonial period power houses at 40 Khoo and UBDC)
Refurbishment of Guru Nanak Auditorium

- Towards revitalization of one of the only public infrastructure for cultural activities, especially used by a
majority of schools in the walled city**
- This would include up gradation of services, refurbishment of finishes and interiors along with landscaping and
provision of visitor infrastructure it to revive the building and its environs for cultural activities
**A survey of educational institutions in the walled city conducted by the HCA revealed that a majority of the schools within the Walled City did not have cultural
facilities within their campuses, and the Guru Nanak Auditorium was often rented out to these schools to host functions. See Section 8.3 for analysis and Volume
IV: Annexures for detailed inventories of schools in the Walled City

Figure 8-63: Proposed Institutions in context to the location of existing educational and cultural institutions in MCA boundary

Chapter Nine
Creation of Shelf of
Projects
9.1 ZONE 1 - Ramdaspur Heritage Zone
9.2 ZONE 2 - Rambagh Garden Recreational
Zone
9.3 ZONE 3 - Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana
Temple Historic Area
AND DURGIANA TEMPLE HISTORIC AREA
9.4 ZONE 4 - Circular Road Historic Connector
9.5 ZONE 5 - Environmental Heritage Nodes
9.6 Additional Project

Creation of Shelf of Projects
9 Creation of Shelf of Projects
Legend
TEXT Zone
Text Project
Text Sub-project component
Text Projects to be executed through HRIDAY in the current allocation of 60 cr
9.1 ZONE 1 - RAMDASPUR HERITAGE ZONE

Comprehensive road development and up gradation of 21 major roads leading to the Golden
Temple critically including interventions towards improved storm water drainage and
1
streetscape and landscape development and creation of a 300m buffer pedestrianized zone
around the Golden Temple
1.1 Improved Mobility in the Walled City (Concept plan proposed in the CIDP)
1.2 Cleaning of existing storm water drains
Laying of storm water drains (as a combination of underground and surface drains responsive to road
1.3
widths)
Streetscape and Landscape Improvement including hardscape and softscape interventions through
1.4 surface treatment of road, street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, and standardisation of
building threshold and drain design
Streetscape and Landscape Improvement focused on Chowk Improvement including surface

1.5
treatment, refuge island, bollards, softscaping, street furniture, dustbins, illumination scheme
Improvement of street façade through standardization of shop front signage by way of proportions
1.6
and location
Public Convenience Module in open spaces (includes Toilet, Kiosk, play equipment, rain shelter,
1.7
drinking water facility, information desk, cycle stand, vendor area, seating space)
Façade Conservation and Structural Retrofitting (as required) of historic buildings of architectural
2
significance in the walled city

3 City Interpretation and City Museum at Town Hall
Conservation and Adaptive Reuse of the Town Hall as a City Museum to showcase the People's
3.1 Story and area improvement of its surrounding space into an interactive/ engaging one with provison
of visitor amenities and infrastructure
3.2 Development of Mobile App linked with the GIS Map
3.3 Interpretative signages in the city with sensors (directional, locational, descriptive)

9.2 ZONE 2 - RAMBAGH GARDEN RECREATIONAL ZONE
1 Urban Design and Infrastructure for the buffer zone
1.1 User friendly Road improvement from Rambagh Gate till Rambagh Garden
1.2 Use Friendly Road improvement from Crystal Chowk till Bhai Veer Singh Sadan
1.3 Rotary Redevelopment
i Novelty Chowk
ii Crystal Chowk
1.4 Plaza Development

Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road geometry along the southern edge of Rambagh
Garden* and the development of a public plaza Including softscape and hardscape interventions with
the provision of streetscape infrastructure including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings
i and bollards. The plaza is proposed in front of the proposed BRT bus stand and requires to be integrated
with its construction and must accommodate space for an IPT parking facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden as an important historic element of the historic Char Bagh is
recommended.
ii Thakur Singh Art Gallery and Guru Nanak Stadium Plaza
iii Bhai Veer Singh Museum Plaza
1.5 Public Art
1.6 Skywalk
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal chowk parking (in the Rambagh garden complex)
1.7
to the Food and Craft Complex (developed at the site of the previously known Guru Tek Bahadur Singh Hospital)
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama’- improved visitor facilities, amenities,
1.8
interpretative materials and landscape
2 Urban Regeneration at and around Rambagh Gate
2.1 Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive Reuse - Existing DPR evaluated through HRIDAY
2.2 Adaptive Re-use and Development of Visitor Interpretation Centre at Rambagh Gate

2.3 Landscape development and monument lighting of Rambagh Gate
2.4 Rotary Redevelopment and Monumental Public Art (in the rotary )
Relocation of shops to reclaim critical public space and create a safe and efficient pedestrian
2.5
environment
3 Rambagh Garden Conservation and Infrastructure Development
3.1 Conservation and Revitalization of the Char Bagh
Revitalization of NE and SE quarter of the char Bagh including providing pathways and
i
planting with all excavations, subbases and finishes
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction of boundary wall and swale) – partial
ii implementation to be done through an Existing DPR evaluated for implementation under
HRIDAY
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction of boundary wall and swale)- Remaining
iii
works
iv Conservation of North Deori
Revitalization of the Periphery Garden through Development of Visitor Infrastructure and

3.2
Amenities
i Park development (all inclusive of planting, pathways, street furniture , street lights etc)
ii Musical Fountain
iii Toilet Blocks (complete with civil, plumbing and electrical works)
Multi Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking– partial implementation to be done through
iv
an Existing DPR evaluated for implementation under HRIDAY
v Multi Dispersed Parking: Additional as required
vi Signage
vii Reconstruction of Tennis Courts
3.3 Reconstruction of clubs from within Rambagh Garden for relocation *
4 Development of Multi-storey Parking Lot
5 Up gradation of Facilities at Virsa Vihar & Thakur Singh Art Gallery , Bhai Veer Singh Sadan
6 Railway Under bridge (RUB)

9.3 ZONE 3 - GOBINDGARH FORT

AND DURGIANA TEMPLE HISTORIC AREA
Upgradation of all roads leading to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort including road
geometry improvement by providing dedicated tracks for cycle and pedestrian pathways with
1 complete streetscape development including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree
gratings, green buffer belt, table top crossings, signalised junctions, dipped crossovers and
signage
Road geometry improvement by providing dedicated tracks for cycle and pedestrian pathways with
1.1 complete streetscape development including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, green
buffer belt, table top crossings, signalised junctions, dipped crossovers and signage
Rotary Redevelopment including surface treatments, elements signages, refuge island, bollards,
1.2
reflective paint, table top crossings street light, plantation and public art if any
Provision of Skywalk connecting the railway station platform # 6 to the walled city through the
1.3 Golbagh; aimed towards improving and increasing pedestrian linkages between the railway station and
the walled city
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge connecting the entrance of Gobindgarh Fort to the Parking
1.4
and visitor centre situated across the road for safer pedestrian movement
Development of a vistor plaza infront of platform # 6 to promote use of this edge towards
2 improving and increasing pedestrian linkages between the railway station and the walled city
[ land of Railways]
Upgradation of the existing Rigo Railway Over-bridge including bridge construction/

structural retrofitting, surface treatment, streetscape improvement through provision of refuge
3 island, bollards, reflective paint, table top crossings street light, for efficient movement of all
vehicular traffic through creation of dedicated cycle/rickshaw tracks with safe movement paths
for pedestrians [as reccomended by the notified Master plan of Amritsar for 2031]
Provision of Visitor Amenities and Infrastructure including parking for the Gobindgarh Fort
4 and The Quila to address current and anticipated vistor needs in the zone ( in land of Military
adjacant to the existing ticketing facility of the Gobindgarh Fort)
i Provision of visitor amenties, including seating, toilets and drinking water facilities
Provision of visitor infrastructure for security including low boundary wall with fencing, security
ii
guard kiosks and lighting with pedestrian pathways and rough ground surface treatment for parking

Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages through Streetscape and Landscape improvement at

Gol Bagh in select areas and environmental upgradation of the park and its immediate vicinity
5
through softscape, hardscape, waste management and organising existing drainage and
electrical works [as part of Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]
Development of 'The Quila'- a Cultural Activity and Education Centre for Youth' (HUB) as an
interactive institutional space for education and promotion of culture including contruction of
6 centre with traditional materials in a vernacular/ modern architectural vocabulary and creation
of a pedestrian plaza, development of semi covered spaces for outdoor activity and display with
a provision for parking (Land of Punjab Roadways)
Construction of main building to house the cultural activity and education centre for youth and all
i ancillary structures including finishes, plumbing and electrical services with traditional materials in a
vernacular/ modern architectural vocabulary.
Development of open area by creation of a pedestrian plaza including hardscape and softscape
ii interventions and development of semi covered spaces for outdoor activity and display with a provision
for parking
Provision of Retail and Recreational Facility in areas around Gol Bagh by relocating and
reconstructing shops from the outer circular road into a organised, possibly multi storey,
7
hygenic semi-enclosed market block with linkages to developed recreational areas (land of
Punjab Electricity Board)
8 Conservation and Adaptive Re-Use of Gobindgarh Fort
Adaptive Reuse of SW Bastion as the Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation at the
8.1
Gobindgarh Fort as part of an international coalition of "Sites of Conscience"
Adaptive reuse of bastion into centre, including ground floor with provision for temporary mezannine
i
floors and improving connectivity to the terrace.
Development of open area by creation of plaza development with including hardscape and softscape
ii
interventions and development of semi covered spaces as a pavillion for outdoor display/ activity

9.4 ZONE 4 - CIRCULAR ROAD HISTORIC CONNECTOR

Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility corridor along the outer and inner circular road
1 including road geometry improvement, rotary redevlopment and reclaiming public space and
its development towards urban regeneration and improved imageability.
Road Geometry improvement to include feeder bus service from BRTS and dedicated tracks for cycle
and pedestrian pathways (average ROW 30 MTS) with complete streetscape development including
1.1 street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings, green buffer belt, table top crossings, signalised
junctions, dipped crossovers and signage. This includes improvement of all rotaries into signalled
junctions except for Rambagh Gate & Hall Gate.
Rotary Redevelopment of Hall Gate including surface treatments diffrentiated by colour and texture,
1.2 refuge island, bollards, reflective paint, table top crossings, plantation, water features and public art with
a unique illumination scheme and signage
Reclaiming Public Space and its Comprehensive Development along the outer & inner circular
road as the edge of the Walled City & Outer City. This includes urban regeneration and improved
imageability of the corridors through streetscape and landscape improvement ( with provision of visitor
1.3
amenities, skywalks, public art and relocating & reorienting incompatible commercial uses - by
reclaiming space currently occupied by service oriented shops, linear parks, police stations, or derelict
spaces.
Streetscape and Landscape Improvement including hardscape and softscape interventions in a linear
belt with an illumination strategy and provision of visitor amenities such as street furniture, dustbins
i in addition to environmental upgradation through electrical re-wiring as appropriate and drainage/
rain water harvesting strategy (storm water along the circular road to be redirected into the open space
of Gol Bagh) towards comprehensive development of the corridor/space.
Public Convenience Module at all 14 entry gates (includes Toilet, Kiosk, play equipment, rain
ii
shelter, drinking water facility, information desk, cycle stand, vendor area, seating space)
Provision of Public Art at important junctions and across reclaimed public spaces towards creating a
iii
sense of inclusiveness and revitalizing the character of the space
Provision of Skywalks across the outer circular road aimed at improving and increasing pedestrian
iv
linkages between to and from the walled city
Stabilisation of remains of the historic wall (Sikh period and Colonial Period) and partial
v
reconstruction of wall along this edge
Relocation and Re-orientation of frontage of shops (by order of MCA, to be undertaken by private
vi
stakeholders) to reclaim critical public space and create a safe, efficient pedestrian environment

9.5 ZONE 5 - ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES

Development of Culture and Nature Education and Activity Centre for Children through
utilization of space under flyover adjacant to the Guru Nanak Auditorium by creation of an
1
Institution for learning with display areas and spaces for commerce supported by the
appropriate provision of vistor amenties.
i Re-working of road section and plaza development
Development of centre including areas for children's activity, display and commercial pockets
ii
complete with plumbing and electrical services and outdoor diplsay lighting.
Public Convenience Module (includes Toilet, Kiosk, play equipment, rain shelter, drinking water
iii
facility, information desk, cycle stand, vendor area, seating space)
iv Planting
Up gradation of Guru Nanak Auditorium by relocating the office of the MTP and
Refurbishment and Provision of Services towards revitalisation of the auditorium as vital
2
infrastructure for cultural activities by educational institutions in the city along supported with
area development and provision of visitor infrastructure
Relocation of the office of the Municipal Town planner from Guru Nanak Auditorium to office
2.1
of the Municipal Corporation in Ranjit Avenue
Refurbishment and Provision of Services for revitalisation of the Auditorium as a vital
2.2 infrastructure for Cultural Activities along with Area Development and provision of visitor
infrastructure
i Infrastructure up gradation of the building and refurbishment of services and finishes.
ii Creation of pedestrian plaza- including landscaping and floorscape with provision for parking
Interventions towards ecological consciousness – provision of rain water harvesting and solar
iii
panels
Revitalization and Infrastructure Development at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and Colonial Period
Power House including adaptive reuse and environmental upgradation of area supported with
3
strengthening of access between Sherawala Gate and 40 Khuh via GT Road through streetscape
and road/junction improvement
Conservation, Revitalisation and Adaptive reuse of 40 Khuh, 40 wells and colonial period power
3.1
house
Conservation and Adaptive reuse of colonial period power house into a vistor interpretation centre
i
and preservation of historic machinery towards a site interpretaion and education strategy
Environmental upgradation in select areas adjoining existing park through hardscape and softscape
ii interventions including developing a promendade with pedestrian pathways, cycle paths and visitor
amenities at the 40 khuh park

Provision of visitor infrastructure, , including parking, boundary walls, street lights, security kiosks
iii
and others
Interventions towards ecological consciousness through provision of Rain Water Harvesting

iv
schemes and demonstration areas
Road improvement, landscape development and provision of signage towards Access
3.2 strengthening (include provision of traffic lights at the junction between the 40 khuh road and
the Grand Trunk Road) between Sheranwala Gate and 40 Khuh
Development of an Environmental park at the UBDC Canal through soft and hardscape
4 intervetions focused on canal edge revitalization and conservation and adaptive reuse of
colonial period power house
Conservation of colonial period power house and preservation of historic machinery for interpretaion
i
and education
Environmental upgradation through hardscape interventions including developing a promendade
ii with pedestrian pathways, cycle paths, visitor amenities and street lights with provision for drainage and
canal edge consolidation (for a 7m wide strip on the canal edge)
Environmental upgradation through softscape interventions with planting of local species of trees
iii
and flowering shrubs mirroring natural growth patterns towards creation of an environmental park
Provision of visitor infrastructure, including parking, boundary walls, street lights, security kiosks and
iv
others
Interventions towards ecological consciousness through provision of Rain Water Harvesting

v
schemes and demonstration areas
Infrastructure Development at Cheharta Gurudwara with a focus towards education and
interpretation of the 'water story' through conservation of the historic well, creation of
interpretation centre. Creation of Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and
5
Entrepreneurship (for traditional and contemporary building skills) as a critical institution
towards safeguarding and promoting heritage in the city is recomeended in the complex of the
Cheharta Gurudwara.
Cheharta Gurudwara - Conservation of the Well built by Guru Arjan Dev and Area improvement
5.1
(improvement of the road)
Interpretation Centre at Chherta Gurdwara - Water Story of Amritsar (from the Guru Period to the
5.2
Canal building of the 20th century- towards environmental conciousness and water conservation)
5.3 Interpretative Signages for the 'water story'
Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills Development and Entrepreneurship (for traditional and
5.4
contemporary building skills) at Cheharta Gurudwara

9.6 ADDITIONAL PROJECT

Structural retrofitting and up gradation of the historic fabric of the colonial period building of
the current Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar’s office, including refurbishment of services and
1
finishes and adaptive reuse into a museum to Bhai Ram Singh, along with area development
and provision of visitor infrastructure.

Chapter Ten
Investment Plan and

Source of Funding
10.1 Summary of Costs

10.2 Committed Funds for Zone I
10.3 Committed Funds for Zone II
10.4 Committed Funds for Zone III
10.5 Committed Funds for Zone IV
10.6 Committed Funds for Zone V
10.7 Convergence of projects for
implementation through HRIDAY and other
committed sources
Investment Plan and Source of Funding
10 Investment Plan and Source of Funding
10.1 Summary of Cost

Current
Allocation in
HRIDAY
(60cr)
ZONE 1 - RAMDASPUR HERITAGE ZONE
Comprehensive road development and up gradation of 21 major roads leading

to the Golden Temple critically including interventions towards improved storm
1
water drainage and streetscape and landscape development and creation of a 300m
32.00
buffer pedestrianized zone around the Golden Temple
2 Interpretative signage in the city with sensors (directional, locational, descriptive) 2.00
TOTAL A- ZONE 1 34.00
ZONE 2 - RAMBAGH GARDEN RECREATIONAL ZONE
Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive Reuse - Existing DPR evaluated for
3
HRIDAY
1.09
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction of boundary wall and swale) -
4
Existing DPR evaluated for HRIDAY
1.87
Multi - Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking - Existing DPR evaluated for
5
HRIDAY
1.13
Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road geometry along the southern edge 1.00
of Rambagh Garden* and the development of a public plaza Including softscape
and hardscape interventions with the provision of streetscape infrastructure including
street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree gratings and bollards. The plaza is proposed
6
in front of the proposed BRT bus stand and requires to be integrated with its
construction and must accommodate space for an IPT parking facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden as an important historic element of the
historic Char Bagh is recommended.
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama’- improved visitor facilities, 0.50
7 amenities, interpretative materials and landscape
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal chowk parking (in the Rambagh 1.50
8 garden complex) to the Food and Craft Complex (developed at the site of the previously
known Guru Tegh Bahadur Singh Hospital)
7.09
TOTAL B- ZONE 2

ZONE 3 - GOBINDGARH FORT AND DURGIANA TEMPLE HISTORIC AREA
Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages through Streetscape and Landscape

improvement at Gol Bagh in select areas and environmental upgradation of the park
9 and its immediate vicinity through softscape, hardscape, waste management and 5.00
organising existing drainage and electrical works [as part of Improving access to the
Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge connecting the entrance of Gobindgarh Fort 1.00

10 to the Parking and visitor centre situated across the road for safer pedestrian
movement
TOTAL C- ZONE 3 6.00
ZONE 4 - CIRCULAR ROAD HISTORIC CONNECTOR

Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility corridor along the outer and inner
circular road including road geometry improvement, rotary redevelopment,
landscaping public space between the two roads with provision of visitor infrastructure
11 and stabilisation and rebuilding of the historic colonial period wall towards urban 5.00
regeneration and improved image-ability (for the segment defined by Rambagh gate
and Lohgarh gate) [as part of Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and
Gobindgarh Fort]
TOTAL D- ZONE 4 5.00
ZONE 5 - ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES

Revitalization and Infrastructure Development at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and 5.00
Colonial Period Power House including adaptive reuse and environmental up-
12 gradation of area supported with strengthening of access between Sherawala Gate and
40 Khoo via GT Road through streetscape and road/junction improvement
Development of an Environmental park at the UBDC Canal through soft and 1.00
hardscape interventions focused on canal edge revitalization and conservation and
13 adaptive reuse of colonial period power house and historic machinery towards a
site interpretation and education strategy.
TOTAL E- ZONE 5 6.00
ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
Structural retrofitting and up gradation of the historic fabric of the colonial period 2.00
building of the current Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar’s office, including
14 refurbishment of services and finishes and adaptive reuse into a museum to Bhai Ram
Singh, along with area development and provision of visitor infrastructure
TOTAL F 2.00
60.09
GRAND TOTAL: A+B+C+D+E+F


10.2 Committed Funds for Zone I - RAMDASPUR HERITAGE ZONE
Details of committed projects with funding by various government departments/ agencies in Amritsar
Financial
HRIDAY
S.No. Name of the Project allocation Source of Funding
Heritage zone
(in crores)
Development & Beautification of Roads PWD (B&R) Central

1 and Junctions from Town Hall to Golden 84.41 Works Div. no. 2, ZONE 1
Temple at Sri Amritsar Amritsar
Municipal Solid Waste Management
JNNURM II
Project for Amritsar cluster (includes
collection, segregation, storage,
2 109.00 (Municipal ZONE 1
transportation, processing and disposal of
Corporation
Municipal Solid Waste Management
Amritsar)
project of Amritsar cluster)
Directorate of
Cultural Affairs,
3 Interpretation Centre, Amritsar ** 54.00 ZONE 1
Archaeology and
Museums (DCAAM)
Ministry of Tourism,
Restoration/Improvement of Façade of Govt of India
Shops/Buildings both sides of road from
4 6.72 ZONE 1
Hall Gate to Golden Temple Plaza. [Punjab Heritage
: Phase I (Golden Temple to Town Hall) Tourism Promotion
Board (PHTPB)]
PWD under relevant
Road Improvement from Hall gate to scheme/Local
5 40.00 ZONE 1
Golden Temple Government (MCA
and PSPCL)
Redevelopment of roads and streets Government of
6 3.11 ZONE 1
leading towards Golden Temple Punjab
Chatiwind Gate to Golden Temple,
6.1 Through Lakshmansar chowk upto Baba 0.29
Sahib chownk (CC Flooring on sides)
Baba Bhodhi Wala chownk to Golden
6.2 Temple, Through Chownk Manna Singh 0.19
(CC Flooring on sides)
Inside Sultanwind Gate to Golden
6.3 Temple, Through Kote Mahna Singh (CC 0.21
Flooring)
Ramsar road to Golden Temple, Through
6.4 chownk Baba Sahib (CC Flooring on 0.13
sides)
Ramsar road to Bebiksar road (Premium
6.5 0.10
Flooring)

Sultanwind gate to Golden Temple,

6.6 Through Kote Mahna Singh road to 0.22
Dholi Mohala (CC Flooring)
Sultanwind gate to Golden Temple,
6.7 Through Kote Mahna Singh road to 0.44
Dholi Mohala (CC Flooring)
Lakshmansar Chownk to Golden
6.8 Temple, Through Pragdass Chownk 0.11
(Premix Flooring)
Chatiwind to Lakhsmansar (Premium
6.9 0.11
Flooring)
Ramsar Road to Baba Atal Sahib (CC
6.10. 0.18
Flooring)
Sultanwind gate to Jalianwala Bagh,
6.11 0.26
Through Lakadh Mandi (BM and SDBC)
Maahn Singh Gate to Ambedkar road
6.12 0.32
(BM and SDBC)
Bazar ghata ghar, Katra Aluhwalia and
6.13 0.23
Neva Bazar (BM and SDBC)
Chatiwind Gate to Shamshanghat road
6.14 0.16
(BM AND PC)
Sikandri Gate to Hall Gate Interlocking
6.15 0.17
Tiles
Asian Development
Development of Heritage trails around
7 0.87 Bank (ADB) ZONE 1
Amritsar walled city (07 pause points)
- Tranche I
Conservation Works at Town Hall
(including Conservation work, Roofing Asian Development
8 works, Wood work, Facade 5.26 Bank (ADB) ZONE 1
Improvement, Fixing Historical bell, - Tranche III
Elevator)
Reuse at Town Hall and Conservation
Works at Heritage Walk (including
Asian Development
Exhibition Hall, Craft Bazar, City
9 15.96 Bank (ADB) - ZONE 1
Museum, Library cum Learning centre,
Tranche III
TIC, Coffee Shop, Souvenir Shop,
Multipurpose Hall)
TOTAL 319.27

10.3 Committed Funds for Zone II - RAMBAGH GARDEN RECREATIONAL

ZONE
Financial
HRIDAY
Heritage zone
(in crores)
Amritsar
SSSS Chowk Flyover/Under Pass U/S
1. 53.00 Improvement Trust ZONE 2
69-A
(AIT)
Reuse at Rambagh Palace (including

Development of Museum- Mannequins/
Asian Development
Replicas/ CCTV/ Paintings/ Electric
2. 10.77 Bank (ADB) ZONE 2
Automation/ Lithographs/ Scenes/
- Tranche III
Multimedia Installation/ Air
Conditioning)
TOTAL 63.77
10.4 Committed Funds for Zone III – GOBINDGARH FORT AND DURGIANA
TEMPLE HISTORIC AREA
Financial
HRIDAY
Heritage zone
(in crores)
Amritsar
Construction of 4-Lane ROB in lieu of
1. 72.00 Improvement Trust ZONE 3
Rego bridge (ROB). U/S 69-A
(AIT)
Landscape development in the outer and

Asian Development
inner zones of the fort complex and
monument lighting at Gobindgarh fort-
- Tranche I
Landscape Development Phase II
Landscape development in the outer and
inner zones of the fort complex and Asian Development
3. monument lighting at Gobindgarh Fort - 4.56 Bank (ADB) ZONE 3
Procurement and Installation of - Tranche I
Monument Lighting

Goods package under IDIPT

Development of heritage trails around
Amritsar walled city (i-vii) + Adaptive
reuse of historic buildings for
Asian Development
interpretation and visitor facilities at
Bank (ADB)
4. Gobindgarh fort, Procurement of Electric 0.82 ZONE 3
- Tranche I : Goods
/ Vehicles (4-14 seaters + Provision of
package under IDIPT
multi-dispersed car parking areas around
walled city circular road and tourist
destinations in Amritsar - Procurement of
Electric /Vehicles (4-14 seaters)
Conservation at Gobindgarh fort (Lot 1) -
Buildings (including Conservation,
Asian Development
Structural Stabilization and Adaptive
Reuse of Historic Buildings for
- Tranche III
Interpretation and Visitor Facilities at
Gobindgarh Fort)
Adaptive reuse at Gobindgarh fort
Anglo Sikh Museums, Hotel, Exhibition
Hall, Magazine Museum, Art and Craft
Centre, VIP rest Room, Ticket Counter,
Asian Development
Administrative Offices, Souvenir Shops,
Toilets, Weapon Museum, Heritage
- Tranche III
Hotel, Cafeteria, Sikh Regiment gallery, ,
Auditorium Cum Conference Room,
Dining Hall Kitchen, Children Play Area,
Landscaping)
TOTAL 114.91
10.5 Committed Funds for Zone IV - CIRCULAR ROAD HISTORIC

CONNECTOR
No funds committed

10.6 Committed Funds for Zone V - ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES
Financial
HRIDAY
Heritage zone
(in crores)
Construction of ROB on Amritsar Tarn
PWD (B&R) Central
Taran Sirhali Harike road Amritsar Tarn
1 108.78 Works Div. no. 2, ZONE 5
Taran Sirhali Harike Road NH-15 (Sec.
Amritsar
KM 112.00 to 112.950)
TOTAL 108.78
TOTAL (ZONE I + ZONE II + ZONE III+ ZONE V) = 606.8 Crores

10.7 Convergence of projects for implementation through HRIDAY and other

committed sources
Current Committed
Allocation funding Departments/
SN Project Components in from other Ministries/
HRIDAY schemes/ Organisations
(60cr) agencies
Comprehensive road development and up

gradation of 21 major roads leading to the
Golden Temple critically including interventions
1 towards improved storm water drainage and 32.00 - HRIDAY
streetscape and landscape development and
creation of a 300m buffer pedestrianized zone
around the Golden Temple
Interpretative signage in the city with sensors
2 2.00 - HRIDAY
(directional, locational, descriptive)
PWD (B&R)
Development & Beautification of Roads and
Central Works
3 Junctions from Town Hall to Golden Temple at - 84.41
Div. no. 2,
Sri Amritsar
Amritsar
Municipal Solid Waste Management Project for JNNURM II
Amritsar cluster (includes collection, segregation,
4 storage, transportation, processing and disposal of - 109.00 (Municipal
Municipal Solid Waste Management project of Corporation
Amritsar cluster) Amritsar)
Directorate of
Cultural Affairs,
Interpretation Centre, Amritsar (Sri Harimandir
5 - 54.00 Archaeology and
Sahib Visitor Plaza)
Museums
(DCAAM)
Ministry of
Tourism, Govt
Restoration/Improvement of Façade of
of India
Shops/Buildings both sides of road from Hall
6 - 6.72 [Punjab Heritage
Gate to Golden Temple Plaza: Phase I (Golden
Tourism
Temple to Town Hall)
Promotion
Board (PHTPB)]
PWD under
relevant
Road Improvement from Hall gate to Golden scheme/Local
7 - 40.00
Temple Government
(MCA and
PSPCL)
Redevelopment of roads and streets leading Government of
8 - 3.11
towards Golden Temple Punjab
Development of Heritage trails around Amritsar Asian
9 - 0.87
walled city (07 pause points) Development
Bank (ADB) -
Tranche I
Conservation Works at Town Hall (including Asian
Conservation work, Roofing works, Wood work, Development
10 - 5.26
Facade Improvement, Fixing Historical bell, Bank (ADB) -
Elevator) Tranche III
Reuse at Town Hall and Conservation Works at
Asian
Heritage Walk
Development
11 (including Exhibition Hall, Craft Bazar, City - 15.96
Bank (ADB) -
Museum, Library cum Learning centre, TIC,
Tranche III
Coffee Shop, Souvenir Shop, Multipurpose Hall)
TOTAL A- ZONE 1 34.00 319.33
Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive

12 1.09 - HRIDAY
Reuse - Existing DPR evaluated for HRIDAY
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with

13 construction of boundary wall and swale) - 1.87 - HRIDAY
Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking -

14 1.13 - HRIDAY
Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road
geometry along the southern edge of
Rambagh Garden* and the development of a
public plaza Including softscape and hardscape
interventions with the provision of streetscape
infrastructure including street furniture, dustbins,
street lights, tree gratings and bollards. The plaza 1.00
15 - HRIDAY
is proposed in front of the proposed BRT bus
stand and requires to be integrated with its
construction and must accommodate space for an
IPT parking facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden
as an important historic element of the historic Char Bagh
is recommended.
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh 0.50
16 Panorama’- improved visitor facilities, amenities, - HRIDAY
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal 1.50
chowk parking (in the Rambagh garden
17 complex) to the Food and Craft Complex - HRIDAY
(developed at the site previously known as Guru Tegh
Bahadur Singh Hospital)
Amritsar
18 SSSS Chowk Flyover/Under Pass U/S 69-A - 53.00 Improvement
Trust (AIT)

Re-use at Rambagh Palace (including

Asian
Development
19 Replicas/ CCTV/ Paintings/ Electric - 10.77
Bank (ADB) -
Automation/ Lithographs/ Scenes/ Multimedia
Tranche III
Installation/ Air Conditioning)
TOTAL B- ZONE 2 7.09 63.77
Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages

through Streetscape and Landscape
improvement at Gol Bagh in select areas and
environmental upgradation of the park and its
20 immediate vicinity through softscape, hardscape, 5.00 - HRIDAY
waste management and organising existing
drainage and electrical works [as part of
Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and
Gobindgarh Fort]
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge
connecting the entrance of Gobindgarh Fort to
21 the Parking and visitor centre situated across the 1.00 - HRIDAY
road for safer pedestrian movement
Amritsar
Construction of 4-Lane ROB in lieu of Rego
22 - 72.00 Improvement
bridge (ROB). U/S 69-A
Trust (AIT)
Landscape development in the outer and inner Asian
zones of the fort complex and monument lighting Development
23 - 5.35
at Gobindgarh fort- Landscape Development Bank (ADB) -
Phase II Tranche I
24 - 4.56
at Gobindgarh Fort - Procurement and Bank (ADB) -
Installation of Monument Lighting Tranche I
Development of heritage trails around Amritsar
Asian
walled city (i-vii) + Adaptive reuse of historic
Development
buildings for interpretation and visitor facilities at
Bank (ADB) -
25 Gobindgarh fort, Procurement of Electric / - 0.82
Tranche I :
Vehicles (4-14 seaters + Provision of multi-
Goods package
dispersed car parking areas around walled city
under IDIPT
circular road and tourist destinations in Amritsar -
Procurement of Electric /Vehicles (4-14 seaters)
Conservation at Gobindgarh fort (Lot 1) -
Asian
Buildings (including Conservation, Structural
Development
26 Stabilization and Adaptive Reuse of Historic - 3.85
Bank (ADB) -
Buildings for Interpretation and Visitor Facilities
Tranche III
at Gobindgarh Fort)


Anglo Sikh Museums, Hotel, Exhibition Hall,
Magazine Museum, Art and Craft Centre, VIP
Asian
rest Room, Ticket Counter, Administrative
Development
27 Offices, Souvenir Shops, Toilets, Weapon - 28.33
Bank (ADB) -
Museum, Heritage Hotel, Cafeteria, Sikh
Tranche III
Regiment gallery, , Auditorium Cum Conference
Room, Dining Hall Kitchen, Children Play Area,
Landscaping)
TOTAL C- ZONE 3 6.00 114.92
ZONE 4: CIRCULAR ROAD HISTORIC CONNECTOR
Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility

corridor along the outer and inner circular
including road geometry improvement, rotary
redevelopment, landscaping public space between
the two roads with provision of visitor
28 infrastructure and stabilisation and rebuilding of 5.00 - HRIDAY
the historic colonial period wall towards urban
regeneration and improved image-ability (for the
segment defined by Rambagh gate and Lohgarh
gate) [as part of Improving access to the Durgiana
Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]
TOTAL D- ZONE 4 5.00 0.00
ZONE 5: ENVIRONMENTAL HERITAGE NODES
Revitalization and Infrastructure

Development at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and
Colonial Period Power House including
adaptive reuse and environmental up-gradation of 5.00
29 - HRIDAY
area supported with strengthening of access
between Sherawala Gate and 40 Khoo via GT
Road through streetscape and road/junction
improvement
Development of an Environmental park at the
UBDC Canal through soft and hardscape
interventions focused on canal edge revitalization
30 and conservation and adaptive reuse of 1.00 - HRIDAY
colonial period power house and historic
machinery towards a site interpretation and
education strategy.
PWD (B&R)
Construction of ROB on Amritsar Tarn Taran
Central Works
31 Sirhali Harike road Amritsar Tarn Taran Sirhali - 108.78
Div. no. 2,
Harike Road NH-15 (Sec. KM 112.00 to 112.950)
Amritsar
TOTAL E- ZONE 5 6.00 108.78

ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
Structural retrofitting and up gradation of the

historic fabric of the colonial period building
of the current Deputy Commissioner of
Amritsar’s office, including refurbishment of 2.00
32 - HRIDAY
services and finishes and adaptive reuse into a
museum to Bhai Ram Singh, along with area
development and provision of visitor
infrastructure
TOTAL F 2.00 0.00
TOTAL A+B+C+D+E+F 60.09 606.80

Chapter Eleven
Implementation Plan
and Monitoring
Mechanisms
11.1. City HRIDAY Plan – Vision and
Implementation
11.2. Toolkits – planning and design
Toolkits – planning and design
11.3. Procurement of Consultants

11.4. Projects: design, detailing and
implementation
11.5. Community Consultations, Education

and Sustainable
11.6. Outreach Management, Operation
and Maintenance
Implementation Plan and Monitoring Mechanism
11 Implementation Plan and Monitoring Mechanism
11.1 City HRIDAY Plan – Vision and Implementation1

“Preserve and revitalize the soul of heritage city to reflect the city’s unique character by encouraging development of an aesthetically appealing, accessible,
informative and secured environment. To undertake strategic and planned development for heritage cities with the aim of improving the overall quality of life
with a specific focus on sanitation, security, tourism, heritage revitalization, livelihoods, and retaining the city’s cultural identity.”
-Project Statement for Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojna (HRIDAY), Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India
and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA)
In its articulation of infrastructure, the brief for the scheme also identifies
that infrastructure is not limited to its conventional interpretation as simply
physical infrastructure. It distinguishes itself by emphasizing that projects of
HRIDAY go beyond to look into the domain of utility infrastructure, social
infrastructure, institutional infrastructure with culture and heritage as a key
driver for economic growth and contributors to enhancement of quality of
life of the citizens.
Infrastructure development around heritage assets, as the mandate of

HRIDAY, requires a unique approach to ensure sensitive development of
heritage assets and its buffer zone ensuring a balanced approach for
protection of authenticity and integrity of heritage, both tangible and
intangible set within the urban landscape with that of modern day
infrastructure development paradigm.
The strategy for Amritsar, thus, is encapsulated in the understanding that

development of infrastructure must ensure protection of values and
attributes of heritage and its ‘Eco –System’ to enable their sustainable
use by the community at large. Towards this end, a hierarchy of
infrastructure would include:
i. Infrastructure needs within the heritage site

ii. Infrastructure needs within the setting of the site
iii. Infrastructure needs towards developing linkages between group
and cluster of sites
iv. Infrastructure development to ‘de-stress’ heritage sites by creating
“off –shore” infrastructure to service the needs and demands on sites
itself.
Figure 11-1: Types of Infrastructure (above right)
Figure 11-2: Hierarchy of Infrastructure needs in context to Heritage sites (below right)
1This section is being re-iterated from the Chapter8: Civic Infrastructure Development Plans to highlight the context in which the
Implementation Strategy has been formulated.

Implementation Plan and Monitoring Mechanisms
Taking this theoretical underpinning for recommendations forward, the history and culture of Amritsar offer guidance
to articulate the vision for the project.
Embodied in the following quote from Sri Guru Granth Sahib, the approach for the City HRIDAY Plan for Amritsar
is steeped in the concept of sustainable development where it reminds us that ‘the entire humankind sits in the lap of nature
for its sustenance’ and hence, planning principles must respect the natural resources and be based and derived from
systems which hold this knowledge.
Figure 11-3 The approach for the city is steeped in the marriage of nature and culture embodied in the above quote
Based on this theoretical underpinning, the City HRIDAY Plan and City Infrastructure Development Plans (CIDP) for
the 5 Priority Heritage Zones have been prepared. The projects emerged based on a methodology where heritage of the
city was identified, mapped and analysed to arrive at the needs for their protection, conservation and enhancement for
the benefit of the communities. Consultations were undertaken with the urban local body, line agencies responsible for
various aspects related to infrastructure and development as well as local community.
The five heritage priority zones and key recommendations in each epitomize this theoretical underpinning.
A. Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone is focused towards recovering dignity of place for both citizens and
visitors (leisure and pilgrim) in the core heritage area of Amritsar which is of immense cultural value. The
historical narrative of Sri Harimandir Sahib and the inner city coexist since the inception of both was founded
by Guru Ramdas, the fourth Sikh Guru. The walls of the city were built later in the 19th century. This inner
city is steeped in intangible cultural heritage - specifically traditional centres of production and commerce
(bazaars and katras).
Via - 1: Creation of a secure environment (Risk Preparedness, improved mobility and streetscape development),
2: Improved Utility infrastructure (towards better sanitation and storm water management), 3: Engagement of
youth in documentation of their own heritage with innovation (use of technology) for interpretation. 4:
Education, communication and awareness building (contribute to under the other towards peace and security)
B. Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone is centred around Rambagh Gate, Rambagh Garden, their
historical interlinkages (as the processional route of Maharaja Ranjit Singh) and the surrounding existing

institutions for culture and recreation with a mandate for urban regeneration towards place
making/improved imageability
Via- 1: Physical and Institutional Infrastructure Development at and around the identified heritage nodes and
improving linkages between heritage sites and 2: Creation/ Designation of spaces for recreation and cultural
appreciation/ activities
C. Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic Area is focused around an important religious
centre with high footfall- the Durgiana Temple- and an important historic fort, defined by the edges of the
walled city (zone 1) to the east and the railway line to the north and the Military station to the south west
Via- 1: Access improvement to the heritage sites from the Railway Station and the Walled City, 2: Creation of
pedestrian public space with improved visitor amenities, 3: Creation of Institutional infrastructure specifically
for the youth.
D. Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector. As an interface between all the zones, the circular road is a
prime road in the city which encircles the walled city. The road has the potential to contribute in a significant
manner to address mobility within the walled city and thus linking it to the larger city.
Via- Enhancement of the mobility corridor for vehicular movement further linking with one way traffic loops
from within the walled city. This would assist in reducing the stress caused by mixed and large volumes of
vehicular traffic around the Golden temple. This intervention would enable pedestrianization of inner parts
of the walled city as well ; 2- provision of pedestrian walkways along the inner circular road to create pedestrian
friendly environment including provision of space for cycling; 3- restructuring the road to enable corridors for
public transport; 4: provide skywalks to connect the inner city with the heritage sites towards the outer periphery
of the circular road; 5: conservation of the remains of the historic wall and to reconstruct parts of it to recall
the memory of the defined edges of the inner city.
E. Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes aims to revitalize sites of natural heritage so as to create alternate
sites for cultural/ recreational activity through infrastructure development, landscape development and
conservation . These are positioned within a larger vision to facilitate behavioural change towards 1:
Creation of an environmental consciousness and 2: demonstrate - through the use of innovation- possibilities
for optimum utilization of existing space/ infrastructure.
Figure 11-4: Five Heritage Priority Zones for HRIDAY

11.4.1 Preparation of Civic Infrastructure Development Plans (CIDP)

For the preparation of the Civic Infrastructure Development Plans for the five heritage zones, gap analysis was
undertaken of infrastructure as it exists today in the area of physical, social and institutional infrastructure. Proposed
and ongoing projects in the area of sanitation, drainage, waste management, approach roads, footpaths, street lights,
tourist conveniences, electricity wiring, landscaping etc. were examined. The Master plan and other planning documents
were examined to identify the proposed projects by the planning authority for the areas identified as the ‘priority heritage
zones’. The CIDP comprises ‘shelf of projects’ to achieve the long term ‘vision’ for the city which would ensure that
objectives of the HRIDAY project are achieved through a multi department / multi sector engagement of several
departments.
Given the current financial allocation in the HRIDAY project for the year 2015-2016 a shorter shelf of projects has
been determined which is inset within a longer list including ongoing/ proposed projects with committed funding where
ground breaking has not happened. This list is further based on a larger list of projects which form part of the City
HRIDAY Vision Plan. The projects require the commitment of several line departments to work in a coordinated
manner based on a shared vision.
The selection of projects for 2015-2016 is based on strategic framework determined by the City Mission Directorate
and the City HRIDAY Anchor. The objective of this immediate list of projects is to ensure sustainable development
of the city by bringing together urban planning, economic growth and heritage conservation in a
comprehensive manner with the objective of restoring, reviving and strengthening the soul and heritage of the
city.
Toolkits have been prepared which address the needs of the long list of projects and not only those which have the
current financial allocation for the year 2015-2016. The CIDPs along with their respective zone-wise toolkits comprise
rationale for planning interventions, architectural and urban design guidelines, landuse and development strategy,
vocabulary for design including color palate, materials, architectural features, etc. which will ensure heritage responsive
development of infrastructure which is sensitive to the needs of the users more specifically the local residents, visitors
and resource managers.
The comprehensive shelf of projects for the City HRIDAY Vision Plan for which toolkits have been prepared are listed
as under:






11.4.2 Prioritisation of Projects for HRIDAY & Convergence with Other Ongoing Schemes
Sustainable integrated development having been identified as the need of the hour, dedicated multi-sector participation
involving both government and non-government organizations is imperative for the tasks that need to be achieved.
While for development that is truly sustainable, supporting systems are recommended to be embedded at a policy and
institution level through the development and amendment of related laws, by-laws , guidelines, notifications,
departmental re-organization, and inter-departmental co-operation, some developmental components will require
further technical considerations particular to their context.
For successful implementation of projects, a myriad of projects activities and inputs by technical specialists is required,
keenly supported by local government authorities. HRIDAY as a scheme has been conceptualized through robust
engagement of sector specialists with both local and national governments. This structure offers a unique platform for
dialogue for the successful implementation of projects.
This symbiotic relationship requires structuring to position the project components within the complex matrix of the
multidepartment collaboration that is required for their successful execution, as well as the conception of operation and
maintenance strategies. Chapter 7 and 8 discusses in depth Prioritisation of Projects in context to the Existing
Management Structures, Stakeholders and Planning Guidelines along with Project Policy Considerations.
The limitations in heritage management are seen to be predominantly due to inadequate state and local level policy level
interventions for management practices of tangible heritage. This lack of prioritization, recognition and inadequate
financial aid towards the conservation and maintenance of built heritage has to be tackled with suitable institutional
reforms. Moreover, while in order to accomplish sustainable development, supporting systems should be embedded at
policy and institutional level through enactment of appropriate legal tools amendment of related existing laws, by-laws
, guidelines, notifications, departmental re-organization, and inter-departmental collaboration, some developmental
components may require technical considerations particular to their unique context, as described below (further
elaborated in CHP Section 11.4: Projects Implementation)
The following table delineates the scope of work under the three broad heads that are required to be achieved
simultaneously to mitigate existing issues plaguing he heritage of the city and are as:
1. Institutional reforms
2. Technical Assistance
3. Community Outreach
The sub-components of each of these larger components, related issues, and interventions required to achieve the
ultimate goal towards reviving heritage cities – the creation of behavioral change towards the perception of heritage and
the need for its maintenance – has been further elaborated in Chapter 12 of CHP – Promotion Program and
Marketing Strategies.
Table 1: Requirements for Successful Implementation
S.N Component Activity
Institutional Reforms
1 Development of Building Bye-Laws and To be included and implemented by MTP/ ADA (under
Design Guidelines for the Walled City (also the guidance of Dept of Local Govt)
recommended in the Master Plan as a Heritage
Zone, Conservation and Tourism Area)

2 Development of Guidelines for Development To be included and implemented by MTP/ ADA (under
around Heritage Zones (recommended by the the guidance of Dept of Local Govt)
Master Plan)
3 Preparation of a Conservation - Landscape To be prepared and approved through the local

Development and Management Plan for government, competent authority with NMA and ASI
Rambagh Garden including:
 Conservation and landscape development

strategy within the extents of the protected
monument towards conservation, improved
landscape and provision of visitor
infrastructure in the Rambagh garden
 Shared Sustainable Systems for Operation and
Maintenance of the Rambagh Garden
 Development and Building Guidelines for the
300 metres Buffer zone around the Rambagh
Garden
4 Relocation strategy for the shops / To be guided by Department of Local Govt
commercial development undertaken by the
MCA in the past (especially on the circular road)
Technical Assistance
To be guided by multi disciplinary specialist consultants
5 Comprehensive Storm Water Management
plan for the walled city2 (to be integrated with
the larger city)
6 City Mobility Plan
Community Outreach
Heritage and it’s various attributes to be recorded and

7 Integration of attributes linked with heritage mapped
(such as mapping, typologies, condition with
photos) in the existing multi-layered GIS Map.
To be created using participatory methods targeted

8 Walled City Interpretation Plan towards involving the youth of Amritsar
The above have also been detailed for each zone in Chapter 8 in a section on Specialist Consultancies/
Planning Policies recommended for successful implementation of the HRIDAY plan.
2 recommended by CLAMC in the meeting held on 4th December 2015

Since the current allocation for implementation of projects for the city of Amritsar is INR 60 crores, a list of projects
to be implemented within the allocated monies has been selected based on recommendations from the City Level
Advisory and Monitoring Committee ( CLAMC) and in consultation with the City Mission Directorate (CMD).
Table 2: The Shelf of Projects within the current allocation of HRIDAY
Current
Allocation in
HRIDAY
(60cr)
Comprehensive road development and up gradation of 21 major roads

leading to the Golden Temple critically including interventions towards
1 32.00
improved storm water drainage and streetscape and landscape development and
creation of a 300m buffer pedestrianized zone around the Golden Temple
Interpretative signages in the city with sensors (directional, locational,
2 2.00
descriptive)
TOTAL A- ZONE 1 34.00
Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive Reuse - Existing DPR evaluated

3 1.09
for HRIDAY
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction of boundary wall and swale) -
4 1.87
Multi - Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking - Existing DPR evaluated

5 1.13
for HRIDAY
Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road geometry along the southern 1.00
edge of Rambagh Garden* and the development of a public plaza
Including softscape and hardscape interventions with the provision of
streetscape infrastructure including street furniture, dustbins, street lights, tree
6 gratings and bollards. The plaza is proposed in front of the proposed BRT bus
stand and requires to be integrated with its construction and must
accommodate space for an IPT parking facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden as an important historic element of
the historic Char Bagh is recommended.
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama’- improved visitor 0.50
7 facilities, amenities, interpretative materials and landscape
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal chowk parking (in the 1.50
8 Rambagh garden complex) to the Food and Craft Complex (developed at the
site of the previously known Guru Tek Bahadur Singh Hospital)
TOTAL B- ZONE 2 7.09
Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages through Streetscape and

Landscape improvement at Gol Bagh in select areas and environmental
upgradation of the park and its immediate vicinity through softscape,
9 5.00
hardscape, waste management and organising existing drainage and electrical
works [as part of Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh
Fort]
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge connecting the entrance of 1.00
10 Gobindgarh Fort to the Parking and visitor centre situated across the road for
safer pedestrian movement
TOTAL C- ZONE 3 6.00
Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility corridor along the outer and

inner circular road including road geometry improvement, rotary
redevelopment and reclaiming public space between the two roads with
11 provision of visitor infrastructure and stabilisation and rebuilding of the historic 5.00
colonial period wall towards urban regeneration and improved image-ability
(for the segment defined by Rambagh gate and Lohgarh gate) [as part of
Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]
TOTAL D- ZONE 4 5.00
Revitalization and Infrastructure Development at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells 5.00

and Colonial Period Power House including adaptive reuse and
12 environmental up-gradation of area supported with strengthening of access
between Sherawala Gate and 40 Khoo via GT Road through streetscape and
road/junction improvement
Development of an Environmental park at the UBDC Canal through soft 1.00
and hardscape interventions focused on canal edge revitalization and
13 conservation and adaptive reuse of colonial period power house and
historic machinery towards a site interpretation and education strategy.
TOTAL E- ZONE 5 6.00
Additional Projects
Structural retrofitting and up gradation of the historic fabric of the 2.00

colonial period building of the current Deputy Commissioner of
14 Amritsar’s office, including refurbishment of services and finishes and
adaptive reuse into a museum to Bhai Ram Singh, along with area development
and provision of visitor infrastructure.
TOTAL F 2.00
GRAND TOTAL: A+B+C+D+E+F 60.09

Prioritization of projects is also based on a system of evaluation of each project against a set of indicators of potential
and impact. The projects selected showcase all or a majority of the indicators listed:
 Combats Vulnerability to the associated Heritage Asset

 Has a Direct Impact on Heritage
 Contributes to Quality of Life
 Contributes to Education/ Awareness through a Participatory Approach (ie, Community
Engagement)
 Ease of implementation as the Development area/ Asset is directly owned by MCA
 Prototype that may be upscaled / Demonstration value

11.4.3 Convergence with Other Schemes
The National Mission Directorate has emphasized the importance of dovetailing of projects to be undertaken under the
HRIDAY scheme with other ongoing / proposed projects with committed funding within the heritage zones. This is
to ensure convergence between projects with support from multiple sources, and further, to prevent overlaps thus
ensuring an integrated planning and implementation strategy. Based on this directive, the City HRIDAY Plan has
ensured that projects proposed in the heritage zones supported by either state government or schemes of Government
of India form part of the ‘comprehensive list of projects’ and also form part of the City HRIDAY Vision Plan.
Further while the shelf of projects for the 5 heritage zones is required to be for the current allocation of 60 Crores, a
longer list has also been prepared. Projects with committed funding from other schemes and sources form part of this
list of projects as well. While the shelf of projects identified for 60cr will be implemented through funding from
HRIDAY , the others are funded from other schemes/ initiatives of the Central/ State Governments thus ensuring
convergence and prevention of overlaps. It would be highly beneficial if projects under the other schemes utilise the
designs for similar project components provided in the toolkits prepared for the heritage zones thus enabling
consistency in design approach and vocabulary.
Following is the list of projects with committed funds from other sources.
Table 3: Projects committed to be funded in the HRIDAY heritage zones by various government departments/ agencies in Amritsar
Projects committed to be funded in the HRIDAY heritage zones by various government departments/
agencies in Amritsar
Financial HRIDAY
S.No Name of Project allocation Source of Funding Heritage
(in crores) Zone
Construction of ROB on Amritsar Tarn Taran PWD (B&R) Central

1. Sirhali
1 Harike road Amritsar Tarn Taran Sirhali 108.78 Works Div. no. 2, ZONE 5
Harike Road NH-15 (Sec. KM 112.00 to 112.950) Amritsar
Development & Beautification of Roads and PWD (B&R) Central

2. Junctions
2 from Town Hall to Golden Temple at Sri 84.41 Works Div. no. 2, ZONE 1
Amritsar Amritsar
Amritsar
3. SSSS
3 Chowk Flyover/Under Pass U/S 69-A 53.00 Improvement Trust ZONE 2
(AIT)
Amritsar
Construction of 4-Lane ROB in lieu of Rego bridge ZONE 2/
4. 4 72.00 Improvement Trust
(ROB). U/S 69-A 3
(AIT)

5. storage,
6 transportation, processing and disposal of 109.00 (Municipal ZONE 1

Directorate of
Cultural Affairs,
6. Interpretation
7 Centre, Amritsar 54.00
Archaeology and
Museums (DCAAM)
Ministry of
Tourism, Govt of
India
Shops/Buildings both sides of road from Hall Gate
7. 8 6.72 ZONE 1
to Golden Temple Plaza.
[Punjab Heritage
: Phase I (Golden Temple to Town Hall)
Tourism Promotion
Board (PHTPB)]
PWD under relevant

8. 9 40.00 ZONE 1
Temple Government (MCA
and PSPCL)
9. Redevelopment
1 of roads and streets leading towards Government of
3.11 ZONE 1
Golden
0 Temple Punjab
i. Chatiwind
1 Gate to Golden Temple, Through
0
Lakshmansar
. chownk upto Baba Sahib chownk (CC 0.29
Flooring
1 on sides)
ii. Baba
1 Bhodhi Wala chownk to Golden Temple,
0
Through
. Chownk Manna Singh (CC Flooring on 0.19
sides)
2
iii. 1
Inside
0 Sultanwind Gate to Golden Temple,
0.21
Through
. Kote Mahna Singh (CC Flooring)
3
iv. 1
Ramsar
0 road to Golden Temple, Through chownk
0.13
Baba
. Sahib (CC Flooring on sides)
4
v. 1
0
Ramsar
. road to Bebiksar road (Premium Flooring) 0.10
5
vi. 1
Sultanwind
0 gate to Golden Temple, Through Kote
0.22
Mahna
. Singh road to Dholi Mohala (CC Flooring)
6
vii. 1
Sultanwind
0 gate to Golden Temple, Through Kote
0.44
Mahna
. Singh road to Dholi Mohala (CC Flooring)
7
viii. 1
Lakshmansar
0 Chownk to Golden Temple, Through
0.11
Pragdass
. Chownk (Premix Flooring)
8
ix. 1
0
Chatiwind
. to Lakhsmansar (Premium Flooring) 0.11
9
x. 1
0
.
Ramsar
1 Road to Baba Atal Sahib (CC Flooring) 0.18
0
.
xi. 1
Sultanwind gate to Jalianwala Bagh, Through
0 0.26
Lakadh
. Mandi (BM and SDBC)
1
1
xii. 1
0
Maahn Singh Gate to Ambedkar road (BM and
. 0.32
SDBC)
1
2
xiii. 1
0
Bazar ghata ghar, Katra Aluhwalia and Neva Bazar
. 0.23
(BM
1 and SDBC)
3
xiv. 1
0
Chatiwind Gate to Shamshanghat road (BM AND
. 0.16
PC)
1
4
xv. 1
0
Sikandri
. Gate to Hall Gate Interlocking Tiles 0.17
1
5
Asian Development
10. Development
1 of Heritage trails around Amritsar
0.87 Bank (ADB) ZONE 1
walled
1 city (07 pause points)
- Tranche I
Landscape development in the outer and inner

Asian Development
11. zones
1 of the fort complex and monument lighting
2 Gobindgarh fort- Landscape Development Phase
at
- Tranche I
II
Landscape development in the outer and inner

Asian Development
12. zones
1 of the fort complex and monument lighting
3 Gobindgarh Fort - Procurement and Installation
at
- Tranche I
of Monument Lighting

walled city (i-vii) + Adaptive reuse of historic Asian Development
buildings for interpretation and visitor facilities at Bank (ADB)
13. 1 ZONE 1 /
Gobindgarh fort, Procurement of Electric / 0.82 - Tranche I : Goods
4 3
Vehicles (4-14 seaters + Provision of multi- package under
dispersed car parking areas around walled city IDIPT
Conservation at Gobindgarh fort (Lot 1) - Buildings

(including Conservation, Structural Stabilization and Asian Development
14. 1
Adaptive Reuse of Historic Buildings for 3.85 Bank (ADB) ZONE 3
5
Interpretation and Visitor Facilities at Gobindgarh - Tranche III
Fort)
Reuse at Rambagh Palace (including Development

Asian Development
15. of
1 Museum- Mannequins/ Replicas/ CCTV/
6
Paintings/ Electric Automation/ Lithographs/
- Tranche III
Scenes/ Multimedia Installation/ Air Conditioning)

Conservation Works at Town Hall

Asian Development
16. (including
1 Conservation work, Roofing works,
7
Wood work, Facade Improvement, Fixing
- Tranche III
Historical bell, Elevator)

Heritage Walk (including Exhibition Hall, Craft Asian Development
17. 1
Bazar, City Museum, Library cum Learning centre, 15.96 Bank (ADB) - ZONE 1
8
TIC, Coffee Shop, Souvenir Shop, Multipurpose Tranche III
Hall)

Magazine Museum, Art and Craft Centre, VIP rest
Asian Development
18. Room,
1 Ticket Counter, Administrative Offices,
9
Souvenir Shops, Toilets, Weapon Museum, Heritage
- Tranche III
Hotel, Cafeteria, Sikh Regiment gallery, ,
Auditorium Cum Conference Room, Dining Hall
Kitchen, Children Play Area, Landscaping)
TOTAL 606.80

Table 4: Convergence of projects for implementation through HRIDAY and other committed sources of funding
Current Committed
Allocation funding Departments/
SN Project Components in from other Ministries/
HRIDAY schemes/ Organisations
(60cr) agencies
Comprehensive road development and up

gradation of 21 major roads leading to the Golden
Temple critically including interventions towards
1 improved storm water drainage and streetscape 32.00 - HRIDAY
and landscape development and creation of a
300m buffer pedestrianized zone around the
Golden Temple
Interpretative signages in the city with sensors
2 2.00 - HRIDAY
(directional, locational, descriptive)
PWD (B&R)
Development & Beautification of Roads and
Central Works
3 Junctions from Town Hall to Golden Temple at - 84.41
Div. no. 2,
Sri Amritsar
Amritsar
4 storage, transportation, processing and disposal of - 109.00 (Municipal
Directorate of
Cultural Affairs,
Interpretation Centre, Amritsar (Sri Harimandir
5 - 54.00 Archaeology and
Sahib Visitor Plaza)
Museums
(DCAAM)
Ministry of
Tourism, Govt
of India
Shops/Buildings both sides of road from Hall
6 - 6.72 [Punjab Heritage
Gate to Golden Temple Plaza: Phase I (Golden
Tourism
Temple to Town Hall)
Promotion
Board (PHTPB)]
PWD under
relevant
7 - 40.00
Temple Government
(MCA and
PSPCL)
Redevelopment of roads and streets leading Government of
8 - 3.11
towards Golden Temple Punjab

Asian
Development of Heritage trails around Amritsar Development
9 - 0.87
walled city (07 pause points) Bank (ADB) -
Tranche I
Conservation Works at Town Hall (including Asian
Conservation work, Roofing works, Wood work, Development
10 - 5.26
Facade Improvement, Fixing Historical bell, Bank (ADB) -
Elevator) Tranche III
Asian
Heritage Walk
Development
11 (including Exhibition Hall, Craft Bazar, City - 15.96
Bank (ADB) -
Museum, Library cum Learning centre, TIC,
Tranche III
Coffee Shop, Souvenir Shop, Multipurpose Hall)
TOTAL A- ZONE 1 34.00 319.33
Rambagh Gate: Conservation and Adaptive Reuse

12 1.09 - HRIDAY
- Existing DPR evaluated for HRIDAY
Edge Definition of Char Bagh (with construction

13 of boundary wall and swale) - Existing DPR 1.87 - HRIDAY
evaluated for HRIDAY
Dispersed Parking: Crystal Chowk Parking -

14 1.13 - HRIDAY
Reorganisation of the right-of-way and road 1.00
geometry along the southern edge of Rambagh
Garden* and the development of a public plaza
Including softscape and hardscape interventions
with the provision of streetscape infrastructure
including street furniture, dustbins, street lights,
tree gratings and bollards. The plaza is proposed
15 - HRIDAY
in front of the proposed BRT bus stand and
requires to be integrated with its construction and
must accommodate space for an IPT parking
facility
*Reintegration of the South Deori into Rambagh Garden
as an important historic element of the historic Char Bagh
is recommended.
Up gradation of the ‘Maharaja Ranjit Singh 0.50
16 Panorama’- improved visitor facilities, amenities, - HRIDAY
Provision of the Underpass to connect Crystal 1.50
chowk parking (in the Rambagh garden complex)
17 to the Food and Craft Complex (developed at the site - HRIDAY
of the previously known Guru Tek Bahadur Singh
Hospital)
Amritsar
18 SSSS Chowk Flyover/Under Pass U/S 69-A - 53.00 Improvement
Trust (AIT)
Re-use at Rambagh Palace (including
Asian
Development
19 Replicas/ CCTV/ Paintings/ Electric - 10.77
Bank (ADB) -
Automation/ Lithographs/ Scenes/ Multimedia
Tranche III
Installation/ Air Conditioning)
TOTAL B- ZONE 2 7.09 63.77
Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages

through Streetscape and Landscape
improvement at Gol Bagh in select areas and
environmental upgradation of the park and its
20 immediate vicinity through softscape, hardscape, 5.00 - HRIDAY
waste management and organising existing
drainage and electrical works [as part of
Improving access to the Durgiana Temple and
Gobindgarh Fort]
Provision of a pedestrian over-bridge
connecting the entrance of Gobindgarh Fort to
21 the Parking and visitor centre situated across the 1.00 - HRIDAY
road for safer pedestrian movement
Amritsar
Construction of 4-Lane ROB in lieu of Rego
22 - 72.00 Improvement
bridge (ROB). U/S 69-A
Trust (AIT)
23 - 5.35
at Gobindgarh fort- Landscape Development Bank (ADB) -
Phase II Tranche I
24 - 4.56
at Gobindgarh Fort - Procurement and Bank (ADB) -
Installation of Monument Lighting Tranche I
Asian
walled city (i-vii) + Adaptive reuse of historic
Development
buildings for interpretation and visitor facilities at
Bank (ADB) -
25 Gobindgarh fort, Procurement of Electric / - 0.82
Tranche I :
Vehicles (4-14 seaters + Provision of multi-
Goods package
dispersed car parking areas around walled city
under IDIPT
Conservation at Gobindgarh fort (Lot 1) - Buildings Asian
(including Conservation, Structural Stabilization and Development Bank
26 - 3.85
Adaptive Reuse of Historic Buildings for Interpretation and (ADB) - Tranche
Visitor Facilities at Gobindgarh Fort) III


Magazine Museum, Art and Craft Centre, VIP
Asian
rest Room, Ticket Counter, Administrative
Development
27 Offices, Souvenir Shops, Toilets, Weapon - 28.33
Bank (ADB) -
Museum, Heritage Hotel, Cafeteria, Sikh
Tranche III
Regiment gallery, , Auditorium Cum Conference
Room, Dining Hall Kitchen, Children Play Area,
Landscaping)
TOTAL C- ZONE 3 6.00 114.92
Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility

corridor along the outer and inner circular
road including road geometry improvement,
rotary redevelopment, landscaping public space
between the two roads with provision of visitor
28 infrastructure and stabilisation and rebuilding of 5.00 - HRIDAY
the historic colonial period wall towards urban
regeneration and improved image-ability (for the
segment defined by Rambagh gate and Lohgarh
gate) [as part of Improving access to the Durgiana
Temple and Gobindgarh Fort]
TOTAL D- ZONE 4 5.00 0.00
Revitalization and Infrastructure

Colonial Period Power House including
adaptive reuse and environmental up-gradation of 5.00
29 - HRIDAY
area supported with strengthening of access
between Sherawala Gate and 40 Khoo via GT
Road through streetscape and road/junction
improvement
Development of an Environmental park at the
UBDC Canal through soft and hardscape
interventions focused on canal edge revitalization
30 and conservation and adaptive reuse of 1.00 - HRIDAY
colonial period power house and historic
machinery towards a site interpretation and
education strategy.
PWD (B&R)
Construction of ROB on Amritsar Tarn Taran
Central Works
31 Sirhali Harike road Amritsar Tarn Taran Sirhali - 108.78
Div. no. 2,
Harike Road NH-15 (Sec. KM 112.00 to 112.950)
Amritsar
TOTAL E- ZONE 5 6.00 108.78

ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
Structural retrofitting and up gradation of the

historic fabric of the colonial period building
of the current Deputy Commissioner of 2.00
Amritsar’s office including refurbishment of
32 - HRIDAY
services and finishes and adaptive reuse into a
museum to Bhai Ram Singh, along with area
development and provision of visitor
infrastructure.
TOTAL F 2.00 0.00
TOTAL A+B+C+D+E+F 60.09 606.80
11.2 Toolkits – planning and design
11.4.1 Purpose
The HRIDAY project requires the City Anchors to prepare toolkits for the heritage zones. It has been described that ,
“city specific toolkits with architectural and urban design specifications, including color palette, materials used and special
architectural features, etc. which shall ensure heritage based aesthetic development of infrastructure, with support from the City
Mission Directorate”. The principal purpose of the toolkit/s is to provide design guidelines for preparation of Detailed
Project Reports for the projects listed in the current shelf of projects and possibly the entire vision plan. While the
toolkits are documents which provide the consultants with a design brief they are tools for monitoring design
development and a visual aid to communicate with the local community on rationale of the project, plans and design
that would be achieved on the ground.
11.4.2 Structure and Function

Five Toolkits have been prepared, one each exclusively for each of the heritage zones of Amritsar. The toolkits have
been prepared as a (stand- alone) docket of comprehensive information for each zone. They contain the Civic
Infrastructure Development Plan ( CIDP) with information on the description of the Zone, Key Attributes of Value
(measurable – tangible indicators) , Gap Assessment/ Need for Project and the Proposed Plan with Shelf of
projects. The Toolkits further have design solutions in the form of guidelines for development for each of the project
components and design vocabulary.
The toolkits, thus define the scope of work and succinctly communicate a set of physical parametres to be adhered to
for design development by the consultant selected for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) which would
additionally be used as indicators for monitoring and review the DPRs by the City Mission Directorate.

11.3 Procurement of Consultants

The Government of India has empanelled 33 consultancy
agencies for the preparation of Detailed Project Reports
(DPRs) under HRIDAY scheme for the 12 cities. The 5
Heritage Zones have distinctive design needs and skill sets.
The Mission Directorate could consider appointing a
single consultant for the preparation of DPRs for all the
five zones or alternatively consider appointment of several
consultants based on the merits and experience of a
consultancy firm.
 Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone,

 Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone,
 Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple
Historic Area
 Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
 Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
Figure 11-5: HRIDAY works towards integrated sustainability
Situated within a comprehensive framework, the proposed projects can be categorized under three major thematic
typologies of work:
a. Urban Infrastructure and Streetscape development

b. Environmental Upgradation and Landscape Development
c. Architectural Conservation, Adaptive Reuse and Design of Interpretative Tools
This classification of projects under these three themes sets a well-defined basis for selection of consultants who should
be able to present a core competency in the stated specialization.
The scope of work for the projects for which the consultants are to be procured is for preparation of feasibility reports,
site survey & soil investigations, detailed design, detailed estimates, detailed architectural, landscape & structural and
engineering drawings, design calculations, BOQ & detailed specifications and schedule of finishes, selection of
material/approval of samples, construction drawings for execution of work, tender document for selection of
contractor, project scheduling, O&M Plan and periodic monitoring and supervision and other statutory approvals from
authorities concerned, etc. in consultation with Engineers of City Mission Directorate & ULBs and as per the
instructions/guidelines/toolkits issued by the Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD) & HRIDAY City Anchors and
any other bodies appointed by MoUD for successful implementation of HRIDAY whichever is applicable for various
Infrastructure Projects identified for Amritsar.

11.4 Projects: design, detailing and implementation
11.4.1 Project planning and design activities

Preparation of the DPRs are to follow rigorous norms set out by MoUD for the scheme. The CHP will guide the scope
of work, with the CMD and HCA working together to robustly ensure that the scope of work, design and strategy
proposed in the DPR upholds the vision set out by the CHP.
The City Mission Directorate is required to have engineers from the local government to examine the design efficacy
and engineering competence of designs proposed in the detailed project reports while the HCA is required to examine
the compliance with the design guidelines in the toolkits and further enhancement of the same.
11.4.2 Review and Monitoring

The HRIDAY Scheme is structured for planning and implementation through the following institutional structures at
national level and city level:

DPR
Consultants
Figure 11-6: Management Structure of HRIDAY as per MoUD
11.4.3 Role of City Level Advisory & Monitoring Committee (CLAMC)

The CLAMC is convened by Deputy Commissioner Amritsar, and is prescribed to be constituted of officials from
several line departments along with elected members from the city and eminent local citizens.
The members of the CLAMC as per the order of Governer passed in February 2015 are:
i. District Magistrate, Amritsar (Convener)

ii. Member of Parliament from Amritsar
iii. Members of Legislative Assembly (Central, West, East, North South constituencies)
iv. Commissioner, MCA
v. Director, PHTPB
vi. Director Town Planning, Local Government Department
vii. Chief Engineer- cum- Genral Manager (Projects), PMIDC
viii. Representative of Police Commissioner
ix. Superintending Emgineer, PSPCL
x. Superintending Engineer (Civil), MCA
xi. Astha Foundation (NGO)
Following are the roles and responsibilities of the CLAMC:
xii. Approval of City HRIDAY Plan

xiii. Review of DPRs before forwarding to the National Mission Directorate
xiv. Monitoring and review of timely progress of the Project
11.4.4 Role of City Mission Directorate (CMD)

The City Mission Directorate (CMD) has been assigned as the nodal agency for implementation of the scheme at
the city level. In Amritsar, the Municipal Corporation forms the key nodal agency with the Municipal Commissioner
appointed as the convener of the CMD.
The members of the CLAMC as per the order of Governer passed in February 2015 are:
i. Commissioner, MCA
ii. Superintending Engineer (Civil), MCA
iii. Superintending Emgineer, PSPCL
iv. Superintending Emgineer, PWSSB
v. District Tourism Officer, Amritsar
vi. Representative of ADA
vii. Deputy Controller (Finance and Accounts)/ Accounts Offiicer of MCA
viii. Representative from Guru Ram Dass School of Planning, Guru Nanak Dev University (Urban Planning
Expert)
ix. Information Technology specialist, MCA
x. Astha Foundation (NGO)
The City Mission Directorate also functions as the Co-ordinator for the entire program and coordinates with various
organizations for timely completion of the work. The responsibility of the City Mission Directorate is as follows:
i. Selection of agencies for DPR, Execution and M&E from the empanelled lists
ii. Evaluation of City HRIDAY Plans, DPRs and Execution Works
iii. Vetting of M&E Certificates and release of payments to Executing Agencies
iv. Overall Coordination, Execution and Monitoring of HRIDAY Scheme at City level
The Mission Directorate is also required to initiate capacity building activities including training and enhancing
linkages within cities, states and institutes of excellence. Advisories and tool-kits prepared with the City HRIDAY
plan are required to be used this purpose.
11.4.5 Role of HRIDAY City Anchors (HCA)

For each of the 12 Cities, agencies with significant expertise in the field of heritage have been selected to be the
HRIDAY City Anchor, responsible for planning, advising and supporting the City Mission Directorate at the City
level for successful implementation of scheme HRIDAY. The endeavour of the plan is also to dovetail HRIDAY
with other ongoing Programs/Schemes of the Local Government, State Government and Government of India.
The HRIDAY City Anchors have the following responsibilities:
i. Provide technical advisory and guidance to the City Mission Directorate

ii. Prepare the City HRIDAY Plans along with prioritization of Projects
iii. Provide quality control for all selected projects starting from preparation of Detailed Project Reports to
execution of works
iv. Engage in Capacity Building of City officials

11.5 Community Consultations, Education and Outreach
HRIDAY, itself, is rooted in the belief that active engagement of local governments is key for sustained progress in
a city. The invitation for Expression of Interest (EOI) for HRIDAY City Anchors emphasized that a “series of
stakeholders’ consultations are required to identify the issues and problems at the grass root level”. This EOI further
underscored that “vigorous public consultation (organised or isolated)” should be undertaken with “citizens, city
officials, and other stakeholders.”
It is essential that local stakeholders engage with the entire gamut of works towards project development- from
conceptualization, detailing, implementation, operation and maintenance. Heritage based development, whether at
the micro level (of a monument) or macro level (for cultural/ urban landscapes) requires that the needs and
aspirations of various interest groups - from both the public and private sector– are addressed to ensure that the
process is inclusive and offers a platform for a participatory approach. Strategies which allow for heritage to be
looked after by the citizens themselves are known to ensure sustainable maintenance, management. Involved
communities and custodians- will ensure that this program for HRIDAY is not a one - time government
intervention. This is only possible with the active engagement of multiple stakeholders working in a collaborative
spirit with a shared vision for the city
Towards this end, consultations have been conducted in Amritsar on various platforms: at meetings with decision
makers, consultations with various government and private stakeholders to understand past, ongoing and proposed
development initiatives and with local resource people towards understanding community needs and with the local
community to share and discuss ideas. Meetings have also been undertaken with community groups to present the
plan. CIDPs further require to be presented at the local levels to get inputs from the local community that lives and
engages with the immediate setting of the heritage asset or the asset itself. This has been detailed in Chapter 13:
Strategies for Operation and Maintenance. The findings that have emerged through the intensive and extensive
consultations undertaken as part of the preparation of the SMART City plan for Amritsar further reinforces the
identification of projects as well as the areas for intervention in the city.

Mapping of Heritage and GIS data base – a project for

participatory process
An important component of the shelf of projects that are to be

undertaken is the use of technology as a tool for engaging the local
community more specifically the youth in schools and colleges of
Amritsar. The GIS database available with the local government has
been proposed to be used as the open source map for mapping of
heritage and oral histories in a participatory manner by the children
of schools and colleges. Effort would be made to ensure that the
children get to engage with their own living environment through
this mapping excercise. The information generated would be used
for preparation of the content for site interpretative materials and
for developing conservation strategies for historic building stock.
Figure 11-7: Mapping of educational institutions in the walled city (marked in

red)
Figure 11-7: Cultural Heritage Mapping conducted for the CHP

11.6 Sustainable Management and Operation and Management
Planning requires that interests of all community groups is reflected/ acknowledged in proposals through a
balanced approach- giving due consideration to the needs of those actively engaged in heritage based commerce
(both the informal and formal sector) and those working towards protection and preservation of heritage as well as
the passive users
The shelf of projects identified in the five zones, both by funding made available by HRIDAY as well as that
provided under other schemes of state and national government are to have parallel execution timelines. In order
to ensure a standardized superior quality of output as the culmination of envisioned City HRIDAY Plan, it is
recommended that the implementation of all given projects follow the design guidelines provided in the CHP
Toolkits. It is further advocated that the projects be executed under the consistent supervision of a monitoring body
consisting of political representatives, administrative officers and technical experts, which can be chaired over by
the District Commisioner (See end of section for management structure) .
Management and Role of the Community requires that the public and private sector work in tandem as each
offers varied opportunities for engagement with heritage- as users, caretakers, potential incubators and investors. A
very important role can be played by the community including investment of the private sector both philanthropic
or of commercial interest .
Institutional mechanisms are recommended to be developed which would enable private sector engagement as well
as role of community forums, educational institutions and non government organisations. Institutions to play a
role of incubators for skill development and appreciation of heritage is recommended. These institutions
have been proposed with specific mandates, with some focused on cultural and commercial activities, and others
towards skill development and entrepreneurship.
There is an immense opportunity to collaborate with the private sector through Public Private Partnerships (PPP),
especially for operation and maintenance of heritage sites through activities focused at tourist amenities and services.
For instance, while the proposed refurbishment of Rambagh gate3 would create an important asset for the city,
mechanisms for operation and maintenance of the rooftop restaurant and other parts of the building through private
sector engagement is an opportunity to be considered. Collaboration with the local hospitality industry would be
beneficial to showcase the cuisine and hospitality services for which the city is very well known. Revenue
generation through this project could pave the way for similar projects of this nature in the city.The local
Figure 11-9: Design layouts showing adaptive reuse proposals for

Figure 11-8: Rambagh Gate Rambagh Gate
3An existing DPR for this has been evaluated through HRIDAY and has been approved by the HRIDAY National Empowered
Committee.
government is recommended to consider sustainable mechanisms for undertaking conservation of public

assets more specifically owned by local government and provide further technical guidance to local
community in this sector
.
This project would also be important to demonstrate sensitive and appropriate adaptive re-use strategies for historic
buildings in the city, which would allow for reintegration of the historic monument into the lives of the local
community, thus reviving its value and association with custodians and visitors alike.
Figure 11-10: The colonial period power house at the UBD CanalFigure 11-11: Another colonial period power house at the site of
is relatively unknown to visitors/ locals of and is site with immense40 Khoo is also an important site in the evolution of the 'water
potential for education and interpretation on the city’s ‘water story’ story' of Amritsar
Shared sustainable systems for operation and maintenance of the Rambagh Garden is a critical feature
which requires to be addressed towards sustainable management of the only ASI protected monument in
the city.
Figure 11-13: Historic Charbagh of Rambagh marked in red Figure 11-12: Multi-Department/ agency ownership at the Rambagh
within the larger extents of Company Bagh Garden
The area within the protected extents of the garden is owned by the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar (provincial
government). The extents of the protected boundary include the historic Rambagh Garden (Area = approx. 35
acres) which is situated within a larger area that had come to be known over time as Company Bagh (Area = 84
acres).
Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums of Government of Punjab, the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama is
under the management of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar; there are three clubs running out of several
buildings within the historic Chahrbagh, these are Amritsar Club, Service Club and Lumsden Club. While the entire
complex is notified under the AMASR Act only few of the buildings are under the management of ASI, these
include the southern and eastern deori, the four bastions , the Hammam and the Baradari. In the absence of a
consistent dialogue based on a shared vision between all the stakeholders projects for conservation and landscape
development have been ongoing in a piece meal manner for several years (almost a decade). The HRIDAY project
offers an opportunity to create the necessary platform to bring the project for conservation, landscape
development and buffer zone planning to fruition in a time bound manner.
An institutionalized platform for dialogue between the several agencies involved so that the Rambagh garden
complex and its buffer can be appropriately conserved, landscaped and developed with sustainable operation and
maintenance strategy. One of the possibility for consideration is that Municipal Corporation of Amritsar, ASI and
DCAM agree on a Conservation Management Plan for Rambagh with jurisdiction of the historic Char Bagh be
given to ASI with all the historic built components, while the responsibility of development and operation and
maintenance initiatives in the periphery garden be with the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar under the guidance
of ASI.
Project Implementation and Management Mechanism for the HRIDAY Plan

Amritsar is on its way to be part of the SMART cities under the Government of India Smart Cities scheme, the
Government of Punjab through PMIDC (Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company) is in the process
of setting up an SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle under Section 25) for planning, management and implementation of
work for the scheme. Thus, projects of HRIDAY are also recommended to be housed within this SPV for a more
cohesive and coordinated interventions in the city based on a shared vision. The recommended management
structure and brief list of technical specialists to be part of this cell is illustrated below.
CEO, PMIDC
HRIDAY City City Mission

Anchor Directorate
GIS (Mapping and Business Development

DPR Monitoring and Implementation Education and
Planning) Outreach (Operation and
(Design and Engineering) Maintenance)
Urban/ Transport/
Infrastructure Public Relations
Planners Public Health Expert (for
Engineers consultations with
the Dept of
Technical
Surveyors Education)
Civil Engineers
GIS experts
Electrical
Enginners

Chapter Twelve
Promotion Program
and Marketing
Strategies
Promotion Program and Marketing Strategies
12 Promotion Program and Marketing Strategies
According to tourist statistics, Punjab has seen a 5-fold increase

in tourists over the past 5 years 1. Over half of these tourists
were visitors to Amritsar 2 with close to 90% visiting Sri
Harimandir Sahib during their trip. Amritsar, clearly, does not
require marketing strategies to increase visitors to the city.
The need of the hour is not to induce further footfall but

rather, improved visitor management.
Figure 12-1: Visitors throng the causeway into the shrine of

Sri Harmandir Sahib
Need for a Participatory Approach
Despite heritage being a generator for commerce and economic development, there is a general apathy seen towards
our heritage in our historic cities due to lack of awareness at an administrative level, which further reflects upon the
perception of visitors and communities contiguous to heritage sites. Appreciation of community involvement in
development and maintenance scheme is an essential ingredient towards creating sustainable mechanisms for
protection and up gradation of heritage assets is lacking. Community involvement is an essential ingredient towards
creating sustainable mechanisms for protection and up gradation of heritage assets. HRIDAY enables for focused,
strategic development which can be a platform to evoke a behavioural change in users and city dwellers. This can only
be achieved if heritage sites impact the quality of life of the citizens and hence induce a sense of well-being - present
and future - through opportunities which link the past to the future. Further, employment of local skill sets and
traditional knowledge systems through public participation is mandatory to increase the communal engagement with
heritage – something that a ‘contractor’ centred methodologies and systems is seen not to achieve.
While communities in Amritsar are proud of their cultural identity- the Punjabiyat- the limitations in heritage
management is due to inadequate policies at both state and local level which can impact management practices of
tangible heritage. The lack of prioritization, recognition and inadequate financial aid towards the conservation and
maintenance of built heritage in turn hampers the appreciation of heritage by its citizens and also impacts the visitors’
perception towards a city. Promotion and marketing programs need to be embedded within frameworks that
encourage community participation and enhance pride in the local stakeholders to be successful. While the
development sector such as industry, agriculture has been acknowledged, culture is most often
disconnected from planning frameworks which has led to this lacunae leading to apathy.
1 In the year 2009, there were a documented 54, 80, 399 visitors growing to 2, 45, 26, 751 in 2014 (Punjab Tourism
Statists at a Glance, 2014, Punjab Heritage and Tourism Promotion Board)
2 Visitors to Amritsar in 2014 were 1, 20, 58, 034 (Punjab Tourism Statists at a Glance, 2014, Punjab Heritage and Tourism
Promotion Board)
Thus, all projects in the HRIDAY program have been proposed based on principles of equity and social
inclusion. They address the needs of people from varied strata of society/ across the social hierarchy from - people
involved in the commercial sector (Including both formal establishment and informal shops and people involved in
production and transportation.) to the consumers, pilgrims to tourists, for local citizens by creation of safe
environments and better mobility for all (vehicular, pedestrian and for cycles).
Local aspirations and global goals have to go hand in hand; nonpartisan approaches have to be used. The community
needs that are understood from stakeholder consultations require to be addressed within the larger environmental and
heritage requirements. As defined in the United Nation’s Goals for Sustainable Development- Environment,
Economy, Society and Culture- all must be considered to be developed simultaneously towards sustainable
development. It has to be borne in mind, that neither can be compromised in favour of another. Addressing
aspirational values of the local community is critical to mobilizing community participation. Various aspects
of the scheme offer to increase a sense of well-being among its users and custodians towards this end:
Figure 12-2: The Global Sustainable Development Goals
A balance of the visual vocabulary of interventions while being sympathetic to the historic setting is proposed as
modern in its functioning/ technology used addressing aspirational values of people for development.
The walled city, while housing the poorest sections of the population, also houses the richest traditional and
commercial centres. Here, the focus of proposals has been towards creating conditions towards a better quality of life
by inducing smoother mobility and street development (the streets are where most of the commerce is housed)
towards better livelihoods and working conditions.

Figure 12-3: Traditional Markets in the Walled City highlighted in purple

While in zone 2, the program aims to

restore pride of place to the Summer
Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the
Rambagh Garden. This recreational zone
highlights the importance and
opportunities that one of the most
important open green spaces in the city
offers. Recommendations expand the
milieu of the place to incorporate more
vibrant cultural activities for a larger
audience, thus more diverse engagement.
Figure 12-4: Proposed activity zones at the

Rambagh Garden: including a Cultural zone,
recreational zone around a Core Historic zone
surrounded by a Green belt
Similarly, in zone 3 extensive conservation and adaptive reuse work is currently ongoing at the Gobindgarh Fort
(GGF) through a loan from the Asian Development Bank- these have been incorporated in the Vision plan as
important projects to show convergence with ongoing work towards heritage centric development in the city. In the
absence of associated social histories with the site -since it was primarily used as a military outpost- it is essential that
proposals rise beyond the norm of treating cultural heritage as a static resource and create platforms to contextualize
the site’s relevance in the narrative of the city’s military heritage to effectively reintegrate the site into the people’s
psyche. The proposed adaptive reuse of SW Bastion in the fort as the Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation as
part of an international network of "Sites of Conscience” recognizes that a platform for engaging with the harsh
violent history Amritsar and its citizens have witnessed is currently absent. Towards this end, the proposed Centre sets
forth reconciliation as a theme to understand critical periods in Punjab’s history towards positive future discourse.
(Left)
Figure 12-6: A painting of a

soldier holding his child at a
bastion at GGF
(Right)
(left)
Figure 12-5: Conceptual rendering
of adaptive re-use of a bastion at
GGF

Key recommendations have been made towards

engagement of the youth with their heritage
through creative uses of technology. ‘Eye beam’
(to be used in signages) responsive apps are
proposed around the city in which signals would be
detected at select sites through a smartphone which
could be used to source more information on a
site/ traditional market area etc. It is also
recommended that programs to engage youth of
the city, specifically from educational institutions,
to conduct activities towards collecting oral
histories for this app and further to develop
content for signages. This would not only be an
important education and outreach acuity as well as
promotion activity. It would evoke the much
desirable community participation and appreciation
towards pride/ respect in their heritage. Such
activities allow for opportunities for the youth to
acquire a sense of familiarity with their heritage
thus developing a sense of ownership.
Figure 12-7: Mapping of Educational Institutions in the Walled

City
Education and development of Institutions to play a role of incubators for skill development and
appreciation of heritage is a prime recommended feature of proposals in each zone. These institutions have
been proposed with specific mandates, with some focused on cultural and commercial activities, and others towards
skill development and entrepreneurship. A marriage of nature and culture is presented as a theme in each of the
proposed institutions.
Figure 12-8: Institutions proposed for cultural activities and skill development as part of HRIDAY across the 5 Zones

Such strategies which allow for heritage to be looked after by the citizens themselves are known to ensure
sustainable maintenance, management. Involved communities and custodians- will ensure that this
program for HRIDAY is not a one - time government intervention. This is only possible with the active
engagement of multiple stakeholders working in a collaborative spirit with a shared vision for the city .
Of the various issues that need to be addressed in order to achieve a desired behavioural change, the following have
been observed to exist in Amritsar:
Problem 1: Inadequate recognition, protection, conservation and management of built heritage
Problem 2: Lack of recognition of people’s collective and individual growth initiatives that are imperative towards
growth and sustainability
Problem 3: Environment (comprising both nature and culture) not recognized as one of the pillars of sustainable
development framework
The following Triangles capture the various aspects of the existing ground conditions, analyses and proposes
interventions necessary to impact behavioural change towards improved heritage management. This would ensure a
richer experience for locals and visitors alike. The Problems have been described on the apex of each triangle, while
the ultimate goal, which is Behavioural Change towards heritage appreciation thus impacting management, is the
fundamental desired outcome. The path from identification of the Problem to achieving Behavioural Change, is
divided into delineating the Causes behind the problem, and recognizing possible Interventions that can be adopted to
alleviate them. Thus Cause and Intervention form two tiers in the triangle, intermediate to Problem. Given that the
Government of India through the Ministry of Urban Development is committed to heritage sensitive development
and so is the local government through the engagement of elected representatives in the City Level Advisory and
Monitoring Committee which has the representation of the Members of Parliaments, Members of the Legislative
Assembly and Mayor, political will towards heritage sensitive development is taken as an assumption. Further, the
emphasis placed on Social Sector development as part of the 12th Five Year Plan, of which culture is a significant part
is another area of commitment. The interventions proposed under the HRIDAY scheme for Amritsar all respond to
the Problems identified.
Log Frame Problem Relevant Zone

1 Inadequate recognition, Institutional Reforms and Policy Level Intervention
protection, conservation and Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone
management of built heritage Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic
Area
2 Lack of recognition of people’s Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

collective and individual growth Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
initiatives that are imperative Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic
towards growth and sustainability Area
Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes
3 Environment not recognized as Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

one of the three pillars of Zone 2: Rambagh Garden Recreational Zone
sustainable development Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort and Durgiana Temple Historic
framework Area
Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector
Zone 5: Environmental Heritage Nodes

Figure 12-9: Log Frame addresses Built Heritage Management
The Problem of Inadequate Recognition, Protection, Conservation and Management applies for both Built
heritage and Natural heritage.
The Causes behind this are identified as less priority being given to Culture with Economic development being
prioritized. Inadequate legal instruments, such as bylaws for preservation of unprotected heritage do not exist; even
the existing laws guarding the only monument (Rambagh Garden) protected by the Archaeological Survey of India are
inadequately enforced and thus add to the Causes. The existing organizational structure of departments responsible
for the city’s heritage, often public assets owned by the MCA, is inadequate for management of the diverse built
heritage and could benefit through the inclusion of specialists and skilled artisans as well as working arrangements
with the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums and Department of Tourism. Lack of financial
resources is also a causal factor.
To combat these issues the following multi pronged Interventions are proposed. The integrated framework with the
implementation strategy within the current allocation of funds has been described in chapter 11 of this document:

Zone Key Concepts/ Policies recommended in the CHP Project

Zone I 1. Development of Building Bye-Laws for the Walled
City (including protection of townscape values through guidelines Planning by Amritsar Development
to address amalgamation of plots/building heights/ land Authority/ Municipal Town Planning Office
conversion in context to proximity to heritage sites/ Holy Centre
and/or ROW of roads)
2. Planning and Design guidelines for the 300 meters a. Comprehensive road development and up
buffer zone around Sri Harmandir Sahib (to create a more gradation of 21 major roads leading to the
secure environment by creation of a pedestrian zone to improve Golden Temple critically and
the streetscape/landscape, air quality and soundscape of the Holy development by way of creating a 300m
Centre, embedded with a strategy towards risk preparedness) buffer pedestrianized zone around the
Golden Temple – project approved by
CLAMC
3. Provision for conservation and development guidelines b. Façade Conservation and Structural
for unprotected built heritage of architectural/ Retrofitting (as required) of historic
historical significance (select public buildings as a buildings of architectural significance in
demonstration project are proposed to be conserved - with the walled city
structural retrofitting undertaken.)
4. Integration of attributes linked with heritage (such as c. Development of Mobile App linked with
mapping, typologies, condition with photos) in the the GIS Map
existing multi-layered GIS Map.
d. Interpretative signage in the city with
sensors (directional, locational,
descriptive)
5. Preparation of a Policy for Shop-Front Signage Design e. Improvement of street façade and
and Standardization. standardization of shop front signage by
way of proportions and location
6. Preparation of City Illumination Plan (highlighting sites f. City Illumination Plan
of cultural heritage significance)
7. City Museum for the People’s Story g. Conservation and Adaptive Reuse of the
Town Hall as the City Museum
Zone II 8. Preparation of a Management Plan for Rambagh h. Urban Design and Infrastructure for
Garden (as the only monument protect by ASI): the buffer zone
A- Development strategy within the extents of the
protected monument towards conservation, improved i. Rambagh Garden Conservation and
landscape and provision of visitor infrastructure in the Infrastructure Development
Rambagh garden
B- Shared Sustainable Systems for Operation and Development of guidelines by the Competent
Maintenance of the Rambagh Garden Authority, ratification by local authorities,
C- Development and Building Guidelines for the 300 approval by NMA and notification by ASI, as
metres Buffer zone around the Rambagh Garden per the AMASR Act 1958 and its Amendment
in 2010
9. Provision for conservation and development/ adaptive j. Urban Regeneration at and around
re-use guidelines for unprotected built heritage Rambagh Gate
(Conservation and Adaptive Re-use of Rambagh Gate is a
critical program in this zone, and an existing DPR for
refurbishment has been evaluated through HRIDAY. The local
government is recommended to consider sustainable mechanisms
for undertaking conservation of public assets more specifically
owned by local government and provide further technical guidance
to local community in this sector towards engagement and
possibilities of revenue generation through PPP schemes)
Zone III 10. Development of Building Guidelines (to protect Planning/ Notification by Amritsar
townscape value) especially as proposed in the Development Authority/ Municipal Town
management plan for Gobindgarh Fort Planning Office

Figure 12-10: Log Frame 2 addresses Improving Quality of Life and Community Engagement
Amritsar is rich with intangible craft and skill evident in its renowned traditional industries, with global appeal for its
performing arts as demonstrable expressions of the joie de vivre of Punjabi culture. While the walled city fabric is
characterized by its traditional specialized market streets and bazaars, or katras, engagement with artisans, craftspeople
and their environment for their sustained growth is currently deplorably inadequate. These small scale industries and
people’s skills require the support and encouragement through platforms to provide better infrastructure for display,
promotion and engagement with a wider platform to participate in innovative avenues for economic generation.
Thus the second Problem that needs to be addressed of Lack of Recognition and Support to People’s Collective
and Individual Initiatives for Maintained Growth and Visibility can be addressed through providing meaningful
support to the traditional institutional and social infrastructure of the local community.
The Causes behind this issue is that cultural traditions and traditional social institutions, in this fast globalizing age are
being treated as static resource. The existing modern legal frameworks do not adequately enable or encourage
participatory processes in cultural heritage management, traditional systems and practices of community are not
appropriately recognized in mainstream cultural heritage conservation, inadequate investment on onsite physical
infrastructure, and outdated disabling governance models.

This requires a participatory approach to cultural heritage management through socialization with all stakeholders,
market associations, performing arts institutions etc to address needs and concerns and integrate them with a city/
state calendar of events, and with government development schemes etc to create better conditions – through physical
interventions, platforms for recognition and appreciation supported by economic drivers- the City Museum proposed
through HRIDAY integrates these concerns in its program. As mentioned in earlier sections, engagement of youth
and educational institutions in mapping of oral histories through technology based programs (Mobile apps) is
proposed as an approach to make heritage relevant and promote engagement through methods (technology based)
which younger generations can easily relate to. Such engagement is essential in giving pride of place and effectively
addressing needs and concerns to the people’s collective in the framework of cultural heritage management.
To ensure sustained growth and change the outlook towards heritage as a dynamic resource for engagement and an
important driver to create livelihood opportunities, engagement with PPP models for operation and maintenance and
establishment of institutions not only for promotion and marketing but also skill development and entrepreneurship
cannot be highlighted enough. Proposals for institutional infrastructure have thus been notably incorporated in each
zone, especially zone 5.
The table details the proposed Interventions:
Zone Key Concepts/ Policies recommended in the CHP Project

Zone I 1. Participatory approach to planning and a. Development of Mobile App linked with
implementation (There is an opportunity to engage school the GIS Map
children/ youth of the city to collect oral histories on the historic
sites to be included in the mobile app/ sensor based signage. b. Interpretative signage in the city with
Integration of information in the existing GIS Map (prepared by sensors (directional, locational,
MapMyIndia for MCA) as a common platform for information descriptive)
will provide value addition to this exiting city asset.)
c. Conservation and Adaptive Reuse of the
Town Hall as a City Museum
2. Integration of attributes linked with heritage (such as d. Development of Mobile App linked with
mapping, typologies, condition with photos) in the the GIS Map
existing multi-layered GIS Map.
e. Interpretative signage in the city with
sensors (directional, locational,
descriptive)
3. City Level Museum for the People’s Story f. Conservation and Adaptive Reuse of the
Town Hall as a City Museum
Zone II 4. Preparation of a Management Plan for Rambagh Strategy for Operation and Maintenance of
Garden (as the only monument protect by ASI): Rambagh Garden
A- Shared Sustainable Systems for Operation and
Maintenance of the Rambagh Garden (jurisdiction of the
historic Char Bagh be given to ASI with all the historic built
components, while the responsibility of development and operation
and maintenance initiatives in the periphery garden be with the
Municipal Corporation of Amritsar under the guidance of ASI.)
5. Provision for conservation and development/ adaptive Strategy for Operation and Maintenance of
re-use guidelines for unprotected built heritage Rambagh Gate
(Conservation and Adaptive Re-use of Rambagh Gate is a
critical program in this zone, and an existing DPR for
refurbishment has been evaluated through HRIDAY. The local
government is recommended to consider sustainable mechanisms
for undertaking conservation of public assets more specifically
owned by local government and provide further technical guidance
to local community in this sector towards engagement and
possibilities of revenue generation through PPP schemes)
6. Institutional Collaborations (The local government is g. Urban Design and Infrastructure for
recommended to collaborate with the surrounding cultural the buffer zone: Plaza Development
institutions, such as Thakur Singh Art Gallery, Bhai Veer (Rambagh garden South Deori Plaza
Singh Sadan, Virsa Vihar and others to create a richer including road realignment + Thakur
integrated calendar of cultural events in the city and engage with Singh Art Gallery + Guru Nanak Stadium
improving infrastructure in the city for cultural activities - by Plaza + Bhai Veer Singh Museum Plaza)
recognizing their value as important public assets)
h. Up gradation of Facilities at Virsa Vihar
& Thakur Singh Art Gallery , Bhai Veer
Singh Sadan
Zone III 7. Collaboration and Creation of Institutional i. Development of 'The Quila'- a Cultural
Infrastructure (for cultural and commercial activities and skill Activity and Education Centre for Youth'
development and entrepreneurship through ‘The Quila (Hub)’ (HUB)
and Adaptive reuse of the SW Bastion of Gobindgarh Fort as
part as part of an international network of "Sites of j. Adaptive Reuse of SW Bastion as the
Conscience".) Centre for Peace, Arts and Reconciliation
at the Gobindgarh Fort as part of an
‘international coalition of Sites of
Conscience’
Zone V 8. Creation of Institutional Infrastructure and k. Up gradation of Guru Nanak Auditorium
Interpretation backed by strategies for operation and l. Bhai Ram Singh Crafts Institute for Skills
maintenance to de-stress the city centre by creation of Development and Entrepreneurship (for
alternate self-sustaining opportunities for recreation traditional and contemporary building
and culture in the city’s periphery / Development of skills) at Cheharta Gurudwara
the 'Industrial Park' for promoting Entrepreneurship in
Traditional Creative Industry m. Development of Culture and Nature
Education and Activity Centre for
Children through utilization of space
under flyover adjacent to the Guru Nanak
Auditorium
n. Infrastructure Development at Cheharta

Gurudwara with a focus towards
education and interpretation of the 'water
story'
o. Development of an Environmental park

at the UBDC Canal with its Colonial
Period Power House
p. Revitalization and Infrastructure

Colonial Period Power House

Figure 12-11: Log Frame 3 addresses Sustainable Development
Amritsar faces immense development pressures due to urban expansion pivoted around the historic walled city, with
Harmandir Sahib at its nucleus. There is an urgent need for planning proposals to work within a framework that
anticipates mounting pressures on the walled city due to urban expansion and formulates designs to de-stress the city’s
centre. Various ongoing and proposed projects address these issues through building of physical infrastructure, which
is considered priority work in the city, however, often management of the environment – both natural and physical- is
compromised/ neglected through these development initiatives.
There is a severe inadequacy of open and green spaces in Amritsar, especially within the dense fabric of the walled city
where green spaces/ landscaped areas are virtually non-existent. Identification and revitalization of open areas,
especially underutilized existing greens spaces, in and around the walled city towards creation an improved micro-
climate is the need of the hour. Rambagh Garden, 40 khoo, the green belt along Upper Bari Doab Canal, along with
the landscape of Cheharta Gurudwara are intricately linked with the narrative of natural heritage of the city. The
‘water story’ is important to the historic geography and establishment of the city of Amritsar, though creation of the 5
sarovars and a landscape dotted with wells. These sites also offer an opportunity to highlight this ‘water story’ and link
mainstream environmental narratives to regional and local histories through site interpretation, education and
outreach programs and creation of environmental parks/ nodes.

In Amritsar, as with many rapidly developing cities in the country, an intrinsic apathy for the environment is also
evident through a lack of engagement with sustainable practices for water, waste and pollution management impacting
the overall environmental health of the urban area. There is a need to create prospects for better sanitation through
improved storm water and sewage management, better mobility patterns and creation of pedestrian zones to manage
noise and air pollution around key heritage sites, which already suffer from intense visitation pressures. These require
to be robustly supported through renewable energy/ energy conservation programs by way of rain water harvesting
schemes and demonstration areas and use of solar panels and others. Reiterating these programs throughout the city
aim to develop a heightened awareness of environmentally sustainable systems/practices - or, an “environmental
consciousness”- to eventually integrate into the lives of people and city planning norms/ guidelines.
Thus, the Problem is of Environment not being recognized as one of the Three Pillars of Sustainable
Development Framework in Amritsar.
The principal Causes for this are identified as environment being perceived as an isolated identity separate from
development and needs of community - misunderstood as not contributing to economic development of the state
with urban development policies responsive to growth of population, industrial development, physical infrastructure
etc. but not the natural heritage or with a consciousness towards sustainable environmental practices.
To combat these issues the following Interventions are proposed:
Zone Key Concepts/ Policies recommended in the Project

CHP
Zone I 1. Comprehensive mobility plan with improved a. Comprehensive road development and up
pedestrian and vehicular traffic infrastructure in gradation of 21 major roads leading to the
the heritage zone integrated with the City Golden Temple critically including
Mobility Plan (This mobility plan would be a strategic interventions towards improved storm water
intervention in relieving development pressures on the drainage and streetscape and landscape
walled city, in line with recommendations in the notified development by way of creating a 300m buffer
Master plan through traffic management (creation of one pedestrianized zone around the Golden
way loops such a the one currently present at Hall Temple – project approved by CLAMC
Bazaar), creation of pedestrian zones, especially around
the Holy Centre. Risk preparedness plans should also be
ensured)
Zone II 2. Preparation of a Management Plan for Rambagh
Garden (as the only monument protect by ASI): b. Rambagh Garden Conservation and
A- Development strategy within the extents of the Infrastructure Development
protected monument towards conservation,
improved landscape and provision of visitor
infrastructure in the Rambagh garden (The
guidance and approval of ASI is required for projects
aimed towards revitalization of the CharBagh of
Rambagh Garden and development of its periphery
garden- especially the two existing DPRs evaluated
through HRIDAY for edge delineation of the Char Bagh
and provision of parking near Crystal Chowk)
3. Comprehensive mobility plan with improved c. Urban Design and Infrastructure for the buffer
pedestrian and vehicular movement in the zone
heritage zone integrated with the City Mobility
Plan (through creation of one way corridors to navigate d. Development of Multi-storey Parking Lot
between important sites in the zone – Rambagh gate to
Rambagh garden, integration with the proposed BRTS e. Railway Under bridge (RUB)
scheme, creation of pedestrian pause points and plazas for
improved linkage between sites. A multi storey parking lot
proposed in the zone offers to address needs of parking
nodes as part of the larger City Mobility Plan. The
Master Plan highlights that the Railway Line cuts the city
across and recommends a number of ROBs/ RUBs for

better mobility- a proposal for an ROB reflects the
recommendations of the Master Plan and dovetails it into
the shelf of projects for the HRIDAY Vision Plan)
Zone III 4. Comprehensive mobility plan with improved f. Up gradation of all roads leading to the Durgiana
pedestrian and vehicular movement in the Temple and Gobindgarh Fort - project approved
heritage zone integrated with the City Mobility by CLAMC
Plan,
A- Improving link between the Railway Station and g. Development of a visitor plaza in front of
the Walled City (through plaza development in front of platform # 6 to promote use of this edge towards
platform no.6 which is currently under utilized and aimed towards improving and increasing
linking this -through reorganizing connectivity in Gol pedestrian linkages between the railway station
and the walled city [ land of Railways]
Bagh- directly to the walled city. Up gradation of the Rigo
Bridge is critically required to augment traffic management
h. Up gradation of the existing Rigo Railway Over-
from the railway station and its recommendation in the bridge [as recommended by the notified Master
CHP also resonates with proposals for the same in the plan of Amritsar for 2031]
Master Plan)
i. Provision of Visitor Amenities and Infrastructure
B- Traffic management and provision of parking including parking for the Gobindgarh Fort and
nodes (A parking lot proposed in the zone offers to The Quila ( in land of Military adjacent to the
address needs of parking needs of Durgiana Temple and existing ticketing facility of the Gobindgarh
GGF as part of the larger City Mobility Plan.) Fort)
j. Reorganising Connectivity and Linkages through

Streetscape and Landscape improvement at Gol
Bagh [as part of Improving access to the
Durgiana Temple and Gobindgarh Fort: project
approved by CLAMC]
k. Provision of Retail and Recreational Facility in

areas around Gol Bagh (land of Punjab
Electricity Board)
Zone IV 5. Planning and Design Guidelines for development l. Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility
of a high speed mobility corridor and reclaiming corridor along the outer and inner circular road
public space
6. Comprehensive mobility plan integrated with the m. Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility
City Mobility Plan corridor along the outer and inner circular road
7. Guidelines for Environmental Up gradation/ n. Comprehensive Improvement of a mobility
Improved Sanitation in the City through Storm corridor along the outer and inner circular road
Water and Sewage Management (the network from
the walled city is recommended to be linked to sewage
treatment plants and recharge pits in green space along the
circular road)
Zone V 8. Guidelines for protection and development of o. Infrastructure Development at Cheharta
environmentally sensitive areas and creation of an Gurudwara with a focus towards education and
environmental consciousness through provision interpretation of the 'water story'
of rainwater harvesting schemes and p.
demonstration areas at UBDC, 40 Kh00 and q. Development of an Environmental park at the
Cheharta Gurudwara UBDC Canal with its Colonial Period Power
House
r.
s. Revitalization and Infrastructure Development
at 40 Khoo, or 40 wells and Colonial Period
Power House
9. Planning and Design Guidelines for Under- t. Development of Culture and Nature Education
utilized public spaces, especially areas under and Activity Centre for Children through
flyovers- supported by a strategy for operation utilization of space under flyover adjacent to
and maintenance (balancing reclaiming public the Guru Nanak Auditorium
space and creation of avenues for revenue
generation)
Chapter Thirteen
Strategies for
Operation and
Maintenance
Strategies for Operation and Maintenance
13 Strategies for Operation and Maintenance
The vision for heritage based development is often founded on international paradigms which may conflict with
perceptions of the local community about their heritage and stakeholders on their aspirations for development. For
successful and sustainable development, it is essential that local stakeholders engage with the entire gamut of works
towards project development- from conceptualization, detailing, implementation, operation and maintenance.
Heritage based development, whether at the micro level (of a monument) or macro level (for cultural/ urban
landscapes) requires that the needs and aspirations of various interest groups - from both the public and private
sector– are addressed to ensure that the process is inclusive and offers a platform for a participatory approach.
Planning requires that the interests of all heritage interest groups are acknowledged in proposals through a balanced
approach- giving due consideration to the needs of those engaged in heritage based commerce (both the informal and
formal sector) and those working towards protection and preservation of heritage.
Management and Role of the Community requires that the public and private sector work in tandem as each
offers varied opportunities for engagement with heritage- as users, caretakers, potential incubators and investors.
There is a strong role of the community through the private sector and local government bodies through the
Municipal Corporation.
It is essential that local stakeholders engage with the entire gamut of works towards project development- from
conceptualization, detailing, implementation, operation and maintenance. Heritage based development, whether at the
micro level (of a monument) or macro level (for cultural/ urban landscapes) requires that the needs and aspirations of
various interest groups - from both the public and private sector– are addressed to ensure that the process is inclusive
and offers a platform for a participatory approach. Strategies which allow for heritage to be looked after by the
citizens themselves are known to ensure sustainable maintenance, management. Involved communities and
custodians- will ensure that this program for HRIDAY is not a one - time government intervention. This is only
possible with the active engagement of multiple stakeholders working in a collaborative spirit with a shared vision for
the city
The various parts of the whole need to be addressed together from all ends as a cyclical process- both from bottom
up and top down. The diagram given illustrates the necessity of community consultation and consensus building as a
method to be followed at every stage of the project- from identification, to planning, to design detailing,
implementation and operation and maintenance for development of a sustainable programme.
There is a need for developing an institutional mechanism for heritage responsive sustainable development and it is
recommended that this be housed within MCA (Municipal Corporation Amritsar) as the nodal authority in the city.
Since Amritsar has been successfully selected as one of the cities under the Government of India Smart Cities scheme,
the Government of Punjab through PMIDC (Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company) is now in the
process of setting up an SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle under Section 25) for planning, management and
implementation of work for the scheme. The PMIDC and MCA function via strong linkages. Thus, projects proposed
under HRIDAY are recommended to also be anchored within this SPV for a more cohesive and coordinated vision
towards development in the city.


There is an immense opportunity to collaborate with the private sector through Public Private Partnerships (PPP),
especially for operation and maintenance of heritage sites through activities focused at tourist amenities and services.
For instance, while the proposed refurbishment of Rambagh gate 1 would create an important asset for the city,
mechanisms for operation and maintenance of the rooftop restaurant and other parts of the building through private
sector engagement is an opportunity to be considered. Collaboration with the local hospitality industry would be
beneficial to showcase the cuisine and hospitality services for which the city is very well known. Revenue generation
through this project could pave the way for similar projects of this nature in the city. The local government
is recommended to consider sustainable mechanisms for undertaking conservation of public assets more
specifically owned by local government and provide further technical guidance to local community in this
sector
This project would also be important to demonstrate sensitive and appropriate adaptive re-use strategies for historic
buildings in the city, which would allow for reintegration of the historic monument into the lives of the local
community, thus revivingits value and association with custodians and visitors alike.
Shared sustainable systems for operation and maintenance of the Rambagh Garden is a critical feature
which requires to be addressed towards sustainable management of the only ASI protected monument in
the city. The area within the protected extents of the garden is owned by the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar
(provincial government). The extents of the protected boundary include the historic Rambagh Garden (Area =
approx. 35 acres) which is situated within a larger area that had come to be known over time as Company Bagh (Area
= 84 acres).
Cultural Affairs, Archaeology and Museums of Government of Punjab, the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Panorama is under
the management of the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar; there are three clubs running out of several buildings
within the historic Chahrbagh, these are Amritsar Club, Service Club and Lumsden Club. While the entire complex is
notified under the AMASR Act only few of the buildings are under the management of ASI, these include the
southern and eastern deori, the four bastions , the Hammam and the Baradari. In the absence of a consistent dialogue
based on a shared vision between all the stakeholders projects for conservation and landscape development have been
ongoing in a piece meal manner for several years (almost a decade). The HRIDAY project offers an opportunity to
create the necessary platform to bring the project for conservation, landscape development and buffer zone planning
to fruition in a time bound manner.
An institutionalized platform for dialogue between the several agencies involved so that the Rambagh garden complex
and its buffer can be appropriately conserved, landscaped and developed with sustainable operation and maintenance
strategy. One of the possibility for consideration is that Municipal Corporation of Amritsar, ASI and DCAM agree
on a Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan for Rambagh with jurisdiction of the historic Char Bagh be
given to ASI with all the historic built components, while the responsibility of development and operation and
maintenance initiatives in the periphery garden be with the Municipal Corporation of Amritsar under the guidance of
ASI.
1An existing DPR for this has been evaluated through HRIDAY and has been approved by the HRIDAY National Empowered
Committee.
Organisational Structure for Implementation of the HRIDAY Program
Amritsar is on its way to be part of the SMART cities under the Government of India Smart Cities scheme, the
Government of Punjab through PMIDC (Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company) is in the process
of setting up an SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle under Section 25) for planning, management and implementation of
work for the scheme.. Thus, projects of HRIDAY are also recommended to be housed within this SPV for a more
cohesive and coordinated interventions in the city based on a shared vision.
An organisational structure to achieve sustainable and feasible technical design, socially inclusive processes, financial
management, and operation and maintenance for both- implementation of the projects with the current allocation of
funds by MoUD, and subsequent phases as well as sustained management of resources generated through HRIDAY
program and possibly related projects have been recommended in the Chapter 11 on Implementation and Monitoring
Mechanism.

Amritsar

Загружено:

Сведения о документе

Оригинальное название

Авторское право

Доступные форматы

Поделиться этим документом

Поделиться или встроить документ

Параметры публикации

Этот документ был вам полезен?

Это неприемлемый материал?

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

Amritsar

Загружено:

Авторское право:

Доступные форматы

City HRIDAY Plan

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd

IPE Global Pvt. Ltd.

Mr J M Balamurugan , Secretary, Department of Local Government, Punjab

3 APPRAISAL OF HERITAGE AND CULTURAL ASSETS OF AMRITSAR 50

4 REVIEW OF EXISTING INITIATIVES 82

5 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATIONS 156

6 PROJECTION AND INFRASTRUCTURE GAP ASSESSMENT (CITY LEVEL) 162

7 PRIORITISATION OF ASSETS 178

8 CIVIC INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT PLAN 200

9 SHELF OF PROJECTS 310

9.1 Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

10 INVESTMENT PLAN AND SOURCE OF FUNDING 320

10.1 Summary of Costs

11 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN AND MONITORING MECHANISM 332

12 PROMOTION PROGRAM AND MARKETING STRATEGIES 364

13 STRATEGIES FOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE 378

7.1. Significance of layered

7.2. Heritage Zone

7.3. Existing management

7.1 Significance of the Layered History of Amritsar

178 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 179

7.1.2 Maharaja Ranjit Singh (1801-1849)

Rambagh Gate and

7.1.3 British Rule (1849-1947); Evolution of the water story

7.1.4 Early 20th Century

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 181

7.2 Heritage Zones

Figure 7-3: Zones proposed in the Master Plan for Amritsar

182 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

o Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 183

7.3 Existing Management Structures, Stakeholders and Planning Guidelines

184 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

Relevant Planning Policies/ Documents

1 See Chapter 4 for details

186 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 187

Relevant Planning Policies/ Documents

2 See Chapter 4 for details

The setting of the fort has been assessed based on

ii Conservation, Management and Re-use Plan of Gobindgarh Fort

 Rambagh Gate to Lohgarh Gate - Cultural Sites and

 Lohgarh Gate to Bhagatnwala Gate – Residential and

 Bhagtanwalla Gate to Sultanwind Gate – Sacred Area

 Sultanwind Gate to Mansingh Gate - Motors Market and

 Mansingh Gate to Rambagh Gate – Informal markets

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 191

192 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

Relevant Planning Policies/ Documents

5 Confirmation with revenue records is required

194 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

Figure 7-9: Priority Intervention Zone within the Walled city

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 195

Figure 7-11: Mapping of open/ green/ vacant spaces in

196 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

CRCI India Pvt. Ltd. in consortium with IPE Global | 197

To summarize, the guiding aim of proposals for each zone are:

198 | City Hriday Plan - Amritsar

8.3 Zone 1: Ramdaspur Heritage Zone

8.5. Zone 3: Gobindgarh Fort Durgiana Temple

8.6.Zone 4: Circular Road Historic Connector