24/07/2025
Arunachal's Aalo Urban Development Division gets FICCI Urban Innovation Award 2025
DELHI: The Urban Development, Aalo Division, West Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh, was on Thursday awarded the prestigious FICCI Urban Innovation Award 2025 in the category of innovative urban infrastructure for its transformative Puak Ghat Riverfront Development Project. The project was shortlisted among the top 3 entries in its category amongst 80 entries from all states and emerged as the Jury mention award under the category of โSmart Public Spacesโ. The award, conferred by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), was received by Hali Welly, Executive Engineer, Urban Development, at the 8th Edition of the Urban Challenge Summit & Awards Ceremony (6th Edition of the Awards), themed 'Innovate, Integrate, Sustain', held at FICCI Federation House, New Delhi, on July 24, 2025.
The Puak Ghat Riverfront Development Project constructed near the confluence of Yomgo and Sipu rivers, has revitalised an unstable and unhygienic riverfront, previously prone to erosion and flooding, into a vibrant public space. The project features a cafeteria, lush parks, open-air gyms, scenic walkways, and modern amenities, including parking facilities, public utilities, illumination, and a 250-meter RCC retaining wall to combat erosion and flooding. Inaugurated on December 2, 2024, by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu, the project was developed at an initial cost of Rs. 4.95 crore.
Hali Welly, Executive Engineer, Urban Development, played a pivotal role in overcoming significant challenges, including rising river levels during monsoons, land disputes, election-related disruptions, and landslides affecting transportation routes. The initiative has led to a remarkable 70% reduction in illegal parking, promotes environmental sustainability, boosts local businesses, enhances community well-being, and is poised to elevate tourism while creating income opportunities for local communities.