Atal Sarovar at Rajkot smart city
Under Smart Cities Mission, Government of India
Rajkot, Gujarat, India
The Evolution of Atal Sarovar: A Water-Sensitive Urban Integration
In the contemporary discourse on urbanism, the integration of sustainable practices has become paramount, particularly in the revitalization of urban water bodies. The concept of water-sensitive urban design (WSUD) emphasizes the harmonious amalgamation of natural hydrological systems within the urban fabric, promoting ecological resilience and enhancing the vibrancy of public realms. This paradigm shift not only addresses environmental imperatives but also fosters socio-cultural enrichment by reestablishing the intrinsic connection between urban communities and their aquatic ecosystems.
Site Area : 75 Acres
Services : Feasibility Study, Programing & Planning, Master Planning, Urban Design & Design Intent for Architecture, MEPF Engineering, Civil & Structure
Engineering, Lighting Design, AV,
Acoustics, Environmental Graphics & Signage, Art, PMC
Accolade : IGBC Green Platinum City Rating
Collaboration : Multi Media Consultants Pvt. Ltd. (Roads and Water Infrastructure) & M/s. Facile Maven Private Ltd. (Solid Waste Management)
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Harnessing Urban Hydrology: Reviving Water, Reimagining Cities
The Smart Cities Mission, launched by the Government of India, promotes a holistic urban development approach, integrating physical, institutional, social, and economic infrastructure to enhance urban livability and drive investment. Among the 100 selected cities, Rajkot, Gujarat, features a 930-acre greenfield site designated for the development of Rajkot Smart City. This site originally contained three natural low-lying areas. Recognizing their potential, the Master Plan reimagined them as key waterbodies, each offering distinct opportunities and challenges, necessitating careful planning and strategic execution.
Designing Smart Water Networks for a Resilient Future
Atal Sarovar, also known as Lake-1, is the waterbody situated to the north of the Smart City precinct, encompasses a catchment area of approximately 0.90 square kilometres. Bordered by well-connected roads and adjacent to green areas, it offered immense potential for transformation. The rejuvenation strategy for the existing three water bodies were underpinned by comprehensive environmental
assessments and hydrological analyses, which guided the enhancement of its natural contours and the integration of surrounding green spaces, ensuring the design aligned with both the ecological context and local aspirations.
A key component of the plan was the creation of an interconnected water network, where the three waterbodies overflow into an adjacent canal, which eventually discharges into the a nearby major dam, the Nyari Dam. A noteworthy innovation is the integration of tertiary-treated reject water from the nearby Sewage Treatment Plant (STP). This treated water is directed into Atal Sarovar through the stormwater drainage system to optimize its usage while supporting sustainable water management. Flood management standards were based on a 100-year return period to determine the High Flood Level (HFL) and the capacity of outlet structures, ensuring the lake retains water year-round.
Recreational Lake-Side Public Realm Infusing a Vibrant Urban Experience
Various aesthetic approaches were explored,
achieving a harmonious balance between natural and geometric forms, while seamlessly integrating the site’s existing contours and conditions. The vision centered on celebrating culture, providing enriching recreational experiences, and establishing green spaces as vital urban assets.
The smart city master plan involved deepening the lake, creating embankments, and incorporating recreational amenities such as theme parks and organic trails. A key aspect of the design was the introduction of non motorized blue-green network and infrastructure, ensuring a synergy between water management and ecological resilience. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) emulate natural hydrological processes, featuring advanced stormwater management practices, bioretention cells, and permeable pavements. The lake’s strategic connection to the other two lakes via stormwater drains fosters a cohesive urban water network, strengthening water sustainability and reinforcing ecological continuity across the city’s landscape.
A Blueprint for Future Water-Centric Urban Design
Beyond its environmental and recreational functions, Atal Sarovar has emerged as a focal point for community interaction. The revitalized space encourages social cohesion, providing a venue for cultural events and daily gatherings. The recreational amenities foster cultural engagement and offer a serene environment for leisure activities, elevating urban livability through thoughtful design.
In the broader scope of Rajkot’s urban development, Atal Sarovar exemplifies the successful integration of natural systems into the urban fabric, resulting in a sustainable, dynamic public space that synergistically blends ecological integrity with urban functionality that has invited new investments and developments in the region. Its metamorphosis from a neglected water body to a vibrant urban oasis highlights the potential of water-centric urban design, and serves as an inspiring model for cities aiming to balance development with ecological stewardship, demonstrating that with visionary planning, urban spaces can thrive as centres of environmental health and community well-being.
“Transforming Urban Water into a Thriving Nexus of Ecology, Community, and Sustainability.”
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