Cover page: Photo of Havelock Bridge after it’s construction in 1897
Source: ECLA Archives, Colourized by Vinay Maddipudi
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Vivekananda Junction
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Kambala Cheruvu
LAKE REJUVENATION AND PARK REDEVELOPMENT
Kambala Cheruvu, nestled in the heart of Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, is more than a mere water body; it embodies a rich tapestry of history, culture, and environmental significance. The pond grapples with a myriad of challenges, necessitating a concerted effort for restoration and rejuvenation. Spread across 10.24 acres, Kambala Cheruvu’s 7.24-acre pond and 2.89-acre bund developments stand as a testament to its historical and cultural importance. Beyond its architectural marvel, the pond plays a vital role in the community, serving as a venue for ceremonies and gatherings. The water body’s persistent presence throughout the year not only bridges the gap between past and present but also symbolizes the region’s deep-rooted history. Unfortunately, urbanization, industrialization, and environmental degradation have posed threats to the pond’s integrity, diminishing its cultural and ecological value.
Kambala Cheruvu Park 1
REJUVENATION OF KAMBALA CHERUVU
In the face of challenges, a visionary plan envisions a revitalized Kambala Cheruvu as a thriving ecosystem and a beacon of community engagement. The comprehensive strategy includes pollution reduction, waste management, and improvements in water quality.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
REJUVENATION OF KAMBALA CHERUVU
The broader vision extends beyond environmental restoration, aiming to create recreational and economic opportunities around the lake, preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity. The goal is to transform Kambala Cheruvu into a green lung for the city, offering a sustainable urban ecosystem where residents can relax, learn, and reconnect with nature.
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Kambala Cheruvu Park
THE EIGHT ZONES OF KAMBALA CHERUVU
The meticulous design of Kambala Cheruvu comprises eight purposeful zones, each catering to diverse activities and experiences. From the Main Entrance Zone, Cultural Zone to the Nation Pride Zone , The Kids Play Zone, Play Court Zone, Aqua screen and Musical Fountain zone, Boating & Water Sports Zone and Zen Garden provide a spectrum of recreational and cultural offerings.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
The Welcome Zone at Kambala Cheruvu is the gateway to the lake’s diverse offerings. This area sets the tone for the visitors’ experience and serves as the primary access point to the eight purposeful zones within the lake complex.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
The Open-Air Theater is a dynamic space designed for cultural events and performances, providing a platform for artistic expression and entertainment. Adjacent to it lies the enchanting Moral Story and Sculpture Garden, where knowledge blooms with every step through insightful narratives and artistic sculptures, creating an immersive and educational experience for all ages.
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CULTURAL ZONE
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Cultural Zone with OAT and Green spaces
In Kambala Cheruvu’s National Pride Zone, patriotism and national identity are the focal points. This area serves as a tribute to the nation’s heritage and values, with exhibits deep sense of pride and connection to the country’s cultural identity.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Map showing the rich heritage of India
KID’S PLAY ZONE
The Kids Play Zone at Kambala Cheruvu is a vibrant and safe space designed specifically for children’s recreation. It offers a variety of playground equipment, interactive play areas, and a joyful environment where kids can have fun, make friends, and engage in imaginative play, ensuring a delightful experience for young visitors.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Kid’s Play Zone
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The Sports Zone offers a dynamic space for sports enthusiasts. It features multi-purpose courts for activities like badminton, encouraging physical fitness and recreation with well-maintained facilities and vibrant surroundings, it’s an ideal spot for visitors to engage in active pursuits and enjoy outdoor sports.
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Kambala Cheruvu Park
Nature Trails
Spiral Hill
Interactive Play Zone
Playcourts
Green Valley
The Food Zone within Kambala Cheruvu, situated in the serene Zen Garden, offers a delightful culinary experience to visitors. This integral part of the lake’s design serves as a tranquil space where patrons can enjoy diverse and carefully curated culinary options amid the picturesque surroundings.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
FOOD ZONE
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BOATING & WATER SPORTS ZONE
Water enthusiasts at Kambala Cheruvu can partake in exciting aquatic adventures within the Boating & Water Sports Zone. Meanwhile, the mesmerizing Lotus at the center of the pond serves as a captivating focal point, adding to the site’s attraction.
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Kambala Cheruvu Park
Boating and Water sports zone with the lotus island at the centre
BOATING ZONE
The Zen Garden offers a harmonious blend of tranquility and culinary delights. The Zen Garden provides a serene space for meditation and contemplation, while the adjacent Food Court features diverse culinary options, allowing visitors to savor delicious meals amidst the lake’s peaceful ambiance, fostering a complete sensory experience.
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PEACE ZONE
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Zen Garden, a serene space for meditation and contemplation
PEACE ZONE
SELFIE POINT
Selfie Point is a picturesque spot for capturing memorable moments. Set against the backdrop of the rejuvenated lake and lush greenery, it provides the perfect backdrop for striking selfies and photos, allowing visitors to preserve their joyful experiences in this beautiful natural setting.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Selfie points along the lake boundary and at dedicated zones.
SELFIE POINT
SEATING GALLERY AND MUSICAL FOUNTAIN
The Seating Gallery Zone a tranquil setting for visitors to appreciate the scenic beauty. Here, guests can relax and enjoy the captivating Laser Water Fountain Show, a mesmerizing display of water and light, creating a unique and immersive experience, making it an enhancing spot for relaxation and entertainment. The Kambala Cheruvu project proudly boasts the largest Aqua screen and Fountain zone in Andhra Pradesh.
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Kambala Cheruvu Park
Seating gallery at the Musical fountain show
MUSICAL FOUNTAIN
ZIP LINE AND SKY CYCLING
The zip line and Sky cycling at Kambala Cheruvu has become a major crowd-puller, offering an exhilarating and unforgettable experience for visitors. It adds a thrilling dimension to the project, attracting adventure enthusiasts and families alike. With breathtaking views of the rejuvenated lake and its surroundings.
Kambala Cheruvu Park
Deck and trails across the lake as water sports
DANDI MARCH INSTALLATION AND JUNCTION REDEVELOPMENT
The redevelopment of Vivekananda Junction near Kambala Cheruvu in Rajamahendravaram stands as a commendable example of urban planning that goes beyond mere functionality to embrace cultural and historical significance. The city’s rich heritage, particularly its association with Mahatma Gandhi and the Dandi March of 1930, has been thoughtfully integrated into the redesign, creating a harmonious blend of past and present. The introduction of the awe-inspiring Dandi March installation, spanning 100 feet in length and reaching 15 feet into the sky, is a monumental tribute to India’s struggle for independence. By incorporating this historical symbol into the urban landscape, the project not only adds grandeur to the area but also educates and reminds citizens of their shared history.
Vivekananda Junction 2
The redevelopment of Vivekananda junction, the busiest junction with heavy traffic near Kambala Cheruvu is a significant urban redevelopment project that has greatly improved the functionality and aesthetics of this city intersection. The redevelopment began with a comprehensive reorganisation of the rightof-way addressing geometry issues and ensuring smoother traffic movement and safety through the intersection. The redevelopment has not only improved the functionality and safety of the intersection but has also added cultural and historical significance to the area through the Dandi March installation. It is a testament to thoughtful urban planning and design that enhances both the practical and aesthetic aspects of the city’s infrastructure.
THE DESIGN
THE CONTEXT AND STREET DESIGN
Analysing the street context with various parameters
To enhance Vivekananda Junction, geometric corrections and carriageway reorganization are proposed. Enlarging the roundabout’s length and reorganising the carriageway lanes to facilitate smoother traffic flow, reducing congestion and enhancing safety. To prioritize pedestrian safety, raised crosswalks and pedestrian islands are strategically placed, encouraging safer crossings and promoting a pedestrian-friendly environment.
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Vivekananda Junction
Geometry corrections to the existing central island and the creation of a central plaza
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CENTRAL ISLAND PLAZA
The central island’s design is a standout feature, with a plaza that serves as a gathering place, landscaped with greenery, adding a touch of nature to the urban environment. The pathways surrounding the central island provide accessibility and a pleasant walkway for pedestrians.
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Vivekananda Junction
DANDI MARCH
The most remarkable element of this redevelopment is the awe-inspiring Dandi March installation, a monumental structure that spans 100 feet in length and soars 15 feet into the sky. This installation pays homage to the historic Dandi March led by Mahatma Gandhi during the Indian independence movement and adds a sense of grandeur and historical significance to the area.
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Dandi March statue with Mahatma Gandhi and few characters
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LANDSCAPE DESIGN
The central plaza at Vivekananda Junction showcases a staggered landscape design, featuring a mix of flowering and nonflowering plants. Enhanced by LED bollards, this combination not only adds visual interest but also provides illuminated pathways, creating a vibrant and inviting urban space.
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Vivekananda Junction
Landscape design around the central island plaza
URBAN PAVEMENT PATTERNS
The pavement patterns are designed to be contemporary and interactive. These patterns may include creative and engaging designs that encourage people to walk, explore, and interact with the ground beneath them. Such features make the central plaza more than just a functional space; it becomes an area for leisure and exploration.
Contemporary urban street pavement patterns
CONTEMPORARY URBAN LIGHTING
Modern urban lighting is a crucial element in ensuring the safety and attractiveness of the plaza, especially during the evening hours. The lighting design is contemporary, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It not only illuminates the space but also contributes to the overall ambiance, making the plaza an inviting destination after dark.
