The Brahmaputra riverfront rejuvenates a natural water lily pond, creates a new river edge, and seamlessly connects the site to the adjacent heritage museum, fostering public interaction.
Editor’s Note: “A combination of contours and current, the design of the Brahmaputra riverfront unfolds like a living memory. Quietly celebrating time and terrain, every curve echoes the rhythm of nature and the stillness of water. Moreover, this project invites visitors not just to a space, but to a restoration of human habitat.” ~ Anusha Sridhar
This Brahmaputra Riverfront Is a Rhythm of Nature and Stillness | atArchitecture
The Brahmaputra, one of the world’s widest and longest rivers, serves as the lifeline of northeast India. Perched on its banks, the site offers views of an island adorned with an ancient temple, a boat corridor, and a cable car.
A 10-metre elevation difference between the river’s high water mark and the ground is navigated through gently cascading terraces and pathways that respect the natural contours, minimising cut-and-fill.
Terraces intertwine with the riparian vegetation like interlocking fingertips and increase biomass through a combination of gabions and recharge pits that improve soil health. Trees and shrubs spanning 250,000 square metres rejuvenate native species, attract wildlife, and shape an open-air botanical gallery.
The larger piece of land between the Brahmaputra River and the lake has been transformed into curvilinear spaces that provide a variety of recreational opportunities for tourists and residents.
The project revitalises the Padam Pukhuri—meaning “lotus pond”—originally 1.5–2 metres below ground level. A pixelated, stepped pavilion follows the site’s natural contours, providing both a recreational platform and access to the water and its aquatic flora and fauna.
The foundation uses gabions to preserve the natural groundwater flow. One edge of the site runs parallel to a historic road, formerly a major artery of old Guwahati, now home to the Assam Post Office. A long corridor enhances the narrow existing footpath, with subdued grey granite tones forming a calm backdrop to the vibrant hues of nature.
The design improves the mobility of pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists while creating open, breathable spaces in this densely populated neighbourhood.
A partly sunken car park serves both the museum and the riverside. Walkable, interconnected, meandering paths connect the Padam Pukhuri, the courts, and the riverbanks.
Fact File
Designed by: atArchitecture
Project Type: Public Architecture Design
Project Name: Urban Regeneration of Brahmaputra Riverfront -Pilot phase
Location: MG Rd, Pan Bazaar, Guwahati, Assam
Year Built: 2024
Built-up Area: 5,00,000 Sq.ft
Client: GMDA, Government of Assam
Principal Architects: Neha Rane & Avneesh Tiwari
Photograph Courtesy: Avneesh Tiwari
Firm’s Website Link: atArchitecture
Firm’s Instagram Link: atArchitecture
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