Tue, Apr 21, 2026
Tourism Hub: The New Vision For GIFT City
From metro connectivity to open spaces for public access, riverfront development is about to get a fillip in this finance and IT hub
Apr 21, 2026 · 2 min read
The global business centre of GIFT City in Gandhinagar is all set to add another feather to its cap. It aims to transform into a tourism destination by developing the Sabarmati riverfront, replete with water taxi facilities and promenades.
The company will appoint an international agency with extensive experience in planning large urban commercial hubs. This aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream project.
The riverfront in GIFT City will be developed as part of efforts to attract business investors and financial companies from India and abroad, while also transforming it into an international tourist destination, says a tender from Gujarat International Finance Tec City Company Limited (GIFTCL).
According to the tender, an international agency that has experience in developing a waterfront of over more than 300 acres, in master planning large urban commercial hubs, in sustainability and smart city design, and working on both global and Indian projects will be selected.
The process for appointing the international agency has been initiated.
Master Plan
The agency will be required to complete the master plan within five months, with the objective of developing the existing and additional areas of GIFT City in a modern and integrated manner, along with establishing the riverfront area as a world-class public space.
In this plan, special attention will be given to transport connectivity, including metro connectivity, bus network, water taxi facilities, as well as promenades and open spaces for public access.
Emphasis has also been placed on environmental conservation and increasing green spaces. To improve the micro-climate of the city, focus is being given to blue-green infrastructure. This project is expected to enhance tourism and the quality of public life.
At present, planning is under way for a 4.5-kilometre riverfront area, but in the long run, the plan is to develop the corridor up to 9 km around GIFT City, which will be completed within the next three years.
Ahmedabad Riverfront Project
The Ahmedabad Riverfront Project has been divided into seven phases, which will cover 38 km from Vasna Barrage to Gandhinagar Thermal Power Station.
At present, 11.2 km of the riverfront is operational. The second phase includes 5.5 km near Indira Bridge, the third phase includes 4.5 km near the Narmada Canal, and phases four to seven, covering 16.5 km, fall within Gandhinagar.
According to the Gujarat Budget for 2026–27, GIFT City will receive a 4.5-kilometre-long riverfront, which will include recreation zones, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, metro connectivity, and a central park.
The estimated cost for developing the area between Pandit Deendayal Energy University (PDEU) and GIFT City will be ₹650 crore.
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