Aalo’s Puakghat Riverfront Project Wins FICCI Urban Innovation Award 2025

The Puakghat Riverfront Development Project in Aalo, located in Arunachal Pradesh, has achieved a significant milestone by winning the FICCI Urban Innovation Award 2025 in the Smart Public Spaces category. This prestigious recognition marks an important achievement not only for the town of Aalo but for the state as a whole, highlighting the power of community-driven development and urban innovation.

The announcement was made by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who expressed great pride in the accomplishment. He emphasized that the award is a tribute to the collective effort, vision, and determination of the people of Aalo. Rather than viewing it as a singular success, CM Khandu praised it as a reflection of what can be achieved when communities unite to build something meaningful and transformative.

Out of more than 80 entries from across India, the Puakghat Riverfront project stood out and secured a position among the top three finalists. This achievement has placed Aalo on the national map as a benchmark for innovative urban development that is deeply rooted in community participation and ecological responsibility.

In his message, CM Khandu extended warm congratulations to the residents of Aalo and sincere thanks to the engineers, workers, local leaders, and citizens who contributed to making the project a success. He highlighted how the combined efforts and commitment of all stakeholders were crucial in transforming the riverfront into a vibrant, inclusive public space.

The Puakghat Riverfront Development Project is particularly notable for its thoughtful integration of ecological sensitivity with modern urban design. It has managed to preserve the natural landscape of the river while enhancing its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The project reflects a balance between conservation and development—something that is often difficult to achieve in urban planning.

This development has also set an example for inclusive and sustainable development in the Northeast region of India. By focusing on environmental sustainability, public access, and aesthetic improvement, the project serves as a replicable model for other towns and cities aiming to redevelop their natural assets in a community-centric manner.

Beyond the award, the Puakghat Riverfront is now a symbol of what local vision, when supported by government and community effort, can achieve. It represents the potential of smaller towns to lead the way in innovative, sustainable development and urban transformation.

In conclusion, the recognition of the Puakghat Riverfront Project by FICCI not only brings pride to Arunachal Pradesh but also sends a powerful message to the nation about the importance of community collaboration, ecological balance, and urban creativity in building better public spaces for future generations.