Wednesday marked India’s 66th Independence Day, and inauguration of the country’s first riverfront project by the banks of the river that saw birth of India’s freedom struggle.
The Sabarmati Riverfront was thrown open to Amdavadis in a dazzling ceremony on Wednesday evening. While beacons shone over the city’s horizon, lights in colours of the national flag had onlookers awestruck. Thousands congregated to soak in the moment.
The walkway was formally inaugurated by CM Narendra Modi. The water amusement rides at the riverfront were also thrown open to the public the same day. Modi not only took a walk at the lower promenade, but also enjoyed a ride in the speed boat with urban development minister Nitin Patel and mayor Asit Vora.
In his inaugural address, Modi dwelt on how the project would help improve health of citizens. “This project will not only improve the health of the city, but also help citizens to stay fit as they can stroll on the walkway, enjoying the cool breeze from the river.”
Modi also spoke about how the project, even before inauguration, has already won more than half a dozen national and international awards. “This is just the beginning. Even before its inauguration, the riverfront walkway has won awards. There are plans to develop water amusement rides, floating restaurants and lots more,” said Modi revealing future plans for the walkway project.
Coinciding with opening of the riverfront project, Ahmedabad Distance Runners (ADR) organised a 10km Independence Run at the Sabarmati riverfront on Wednesday. Held in association with the civic body, Henrik Westerlin of the city was the winner, while Harsh Dadhich was declared runners up. Vora flagged off the race from the Vallabh Sadan stretch of the riverfront, after which it reached Vasna and returned to the starting point passing under Nehru Bridge, Ellisbridge and Sardar Bridge.
