AP New Assembly Building, Amaravati

The AP New Assembly Building is a legislative complex under construction located in Amaravati, the planned capital city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is designed to serve as the home of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly reflecting both the state’s democratic aspirations and a vision of modern, sustainable architecture.

Background

Following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014 and the creation of the new state of Telangana, a new capital was needed for the reorganized Andhra Pradesh. Amaravati was chosen due to its central location and strategic potential. A master plan for the new capital was developed, with the new Assembly complex envisioned as its centerpiece.

Design and architecture

The building was designed by the internationally renowned architecture firm Foster and Partners, in collaboration with Indian firms. The structure draws symbolic and architectural inspiration from the Kohinoor diamond, aiming to reflect brilliance, transparency, and strength.

Layout and structure

The layout adheres to principles of Vaastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture. The plan is square in shape with specific directional placements:

• Public Entrance: North
• Ministers’ Entrance: East
• Assembly Chamber: Southwest
• Council Hall: Northeast
• Administrative Offices: Northwest

At the center is a courtyard designed to function as a civic gathering space, emphasizing accessibility and open governance.

Conical tower

A major architectural highlight is a 250-meter-high conical roof, intended to exceed the height of the Statue of Unity, making it one of the tallest governmental buildings in India. The tower offers two viewing galleries:

• First Gallery: At 80 meters, with seating for approximately 300 visitors
• Second Gallery: At 250 meters, offering panoramic views of Amaravati and its surroundings

Transparency and participation

The Assembly and Council Halls are designed with glass walls, allowing the public to observe legislative sessions. This architectural feature underscores transparency and public engagement in governance.

Sustainability features

The building integrates several eco-friendly and sustainable features, including:

• Photovoltaic solar panels for renewable energy generation
• Natural lighting and ventilation to reduce energy consumption
• Green roofing systems and water conservation techniques

It is part of Amaravati’s larger green master plan, which includes a network of parks, water bodies, and tree-lined avenues forming a central green spine across the city.

Current status

As of May 2025, the construction of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly building has officially commenced. The 'Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) awarded the construction contract to Larsen & Toubro (L&T), valued at ₹617 crore. The Letter of Award was presented to L&T’s Deputy General Manager on April 20, 2025.

Construction began on May 2, 2025, after a ceremonial relaunch by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated and laid the foundation for infrastructure projects worth over ₹58,000 crore across the state. The Assembly building is set to span 11.21 lakh square feet within Super Block E of the Government Complex, covering 103.76 acres. The structure will include a basement and three above-ground floors.

This construction marks the revival of the Amaravati capital project, which had faced delays in previous years. The current state administration aims to complete the capital’s core infrastructure within three years.