Ahmedabad to acquire land housing Asaram Bapu's ashram for Sardar Patel Sports Enclave, Olympic Village
PTC Web Desk: Land occupied by three ashrams, including one associated with jailed self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, is likely to be acquired for the development of the Sardar Patel Sports Enclave and the upcoming Olympic Village near the Narendra Modi Stadium in Motera, as per a report in The Times of India. This move is part of the city’s preparation to host the 2036 Olympic Games, as per an official report.
The three ashrams identified for relocation are Sant Shree Asaram Ashram, Bhartiya Seva Samaj, and Sadashiv Pragya Mandal. The administrative process has been initiated by a committee headed by the Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner, following the city's approved master plan.
According to sources, the Ahmedabad Collector's Office will oversee the legal proceedings related to the land acquisition. Officials hinted that the request by Sadashiv Pragya Mandal to retain their current structures could be considered if they agree to offer alternative land parcels in exchange.
The master plan for the Sports Enclave and Olympic Village is being prepared by international consultancy firm Populous, with technical support from the Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA). As per the preliminary blueprint, approximately 650 acres will be required, including 600 acres in Motera, Bhat, Koteshwar, and Sughad, and an additional 50 acres on the Sabarmati Riverfront.
Additionally, land in residential localities such as Shivnagar and Vanzara Vaas, along with property owned by the Karai Police Academy, is under consideration for acquisition to create space for the sports infrastructure.
The Sardar Patel Sports Enclave is expected to be spread across 280 acres around the Narendra Modi Stadium and another 50 acres along the riverfront. The Olympic Village will be established on 240 acres in Bhat and Sughad. Officials from AUDA confirmed that the earmarked areas have been marked, and groundwork for the acquisition is nearing completion.t
- With inputs from agencies
