Published 21:19 IST, September 12th 2019
Parliament building could become a Museum if a new one is built
Reportedly, the existing structure of the historic Parliament might turn into a museum if the Centre decides to build a new one; the govt has invited designs
As per reports, the existing Indian Parliament might turn into a museum if the Centre decides to build a new one. The North and the South blocks, which houses several ministries including Home Affairs, Defence and Finance, and the Prime Minister's Office, will not be changed even after a common Central Secretariat is built.
"If a plan to build a new Parliament building is finalised, the existing structure of the historic Parliament may be turned into a museum," a source said.
The infrastructure
Since there are no plans to change the design of the North and South Blocks, once a common Central Secretariat is built, there will be several options including turning the North and South Blocks into a museum. The South and North Blocks, and the Parliament are along the Central Vista, a 3-km stretch from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to the India Gate, and it was planned by architect duo Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker, according to the Central Public Works Department (CPWD).
The construction of these iconic buildings was done between 1911-1931 colliding with the inauguration of India's then new Capital, Delhi. The construction work of the Parliament was completed in 1927.
As per sources, The Parliament has been declared a Heritage Grade-I building. Union Housing and Urban Affairs (HUA) Ministry has also invited architecture firms to redevelop the central vista and construct the common Central Secretariat for offices of all ministries.
A New Parliament by 2022
It is reported that The Monsoon Session of Parliament in 2022 will be held in a newly-developed Parliament building. The government has invited design and architecture firms from across the globe for consultancy works by floating of a request for proposal (RFP) on September 2 for the 'development or redevelopment of Parliament Building, Common Central Secretariat and Central Vista'.
It is also alleged that the idea of a new Parliament is due to the dire shortage of office space and lack of chambers for the MPs in the existing Parliament building. The situation will further aggravate if there is an increase in the number of seats. However, it is still ascertained whether there will be a new Parliament or redevelopment of the same.
(With Inputs from PTI)
Updated 22:47 IST, September 12th 2019