Over a dozen reputed architecture firms including Mumbai-based Hafeez Contractor, Delhi-based Raj Rewal Associates and C P Kukreja besides the Ahmedabad firm which designed the Sabarmati waterfront are among those vying for the ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project. 

Sources said while several firms including these participated in the pre-bid meeting called by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) recently, many of them have suggested that such a high-profile project should be executed on the basis of “best design solution and concept” rather than awarding the work to the lowest bidder. 

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Meanwhile, on Wednesday, architects affiliated to the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) alleged that the government was in a hurry to implement the project. “The CPWD appears to be moving full steam ahead on its current course with site visits planned for September 26 in what seems to be an unseemly haste. This will lead to disastrous consequences as any redevelopment in such a sensitive zone needs to be planned in a holistic manner,” they said. 

The architects alleged that the CPWD has not shared any data or inputs which are required to plan such a major project and called the exercise “vague and open ended”. 

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