VIJAYAWADA: To test the preparedness of private players to participate in the creation of entertainment infrastructure in the capital, the AP Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA ) has set its eyes on developing a commercial mall in Amaravati. The mall, which will also be an entertainment centre, is proposed to be constructed in about seven acres. The CRDA has invited an Expression Of Interest (EOI) for development of the mall.
The APCRDA is experimenting with the project as it aims to develop an open mall which can create a feeling of community among visitors. “The plan is to develop a mall modelled on the lines of a street market in Amaravati. We have a few areas in mind, but yet to finalise the location. We have invited EOI to gauge the interest among prospective investors, and to get different concepts and modalities for the project execution,” explained an official involved in the project. Open mall concept, which is fast catching up across the country, means that the common areas are not enclosed.
It may be recalled that the CM, a couple of months ago, had approved the authority’s proposal to develop a commercial mall in order to kickstart commercial activity in Amaravati. While the initial plan was to develop a mall in 10 acres, the authority has now proposed to execute the project in 5-7 acres. The proposed mall-cum-entertainment centre is expected to have facilities including showrooms for shopping, food courts, multiplexes and other entertainment zones. As per the EOI, the authority is looking for a ‘high profile’ national/international developers or entrepreneurs to invest in the project.
The CRDA official further said the EOIs will be examined in the first week of August, following which Request For Proposal (RFP) would be issued to the qualified bidders. “We will decide the modalities of the project such as the built-up area, the number of civil structures and others, after the EOIs are examined,” the official observed, adding that the authority plans to complete the project in two years from the date of identifying the contractor.