Central Vista Project Moves Forward with Demolition Bids for Key Buildings
The Central Vista redevelopment project in New Delhi takes a significant step forward. The government has officially invited bids to demolish two prominent government buildings: Krishi Bhawan and Shastri Bhawan. These structures will make way for new Common Central Secretariat (CCS) buildings, marking a crucial phase in the ambitious urban renewal plan.
Government Initiates Demolition and Construction Process
The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) floated a tender on Monday for the construction of CCS 4 and 5. These new buildings will rise on Dr Rajendra Prasad Road, precisely where Shastri Bhawan and Krishi Bhawan currently stand. The tender document clearly states that the work involves dismantling the existing buildings on plot No. 120.
The estimated cost for constructing these two buildings is Rs 3,006.07 crore. Contractors have until February 13 to submit their bids. The project timeline is set at 24 months, indicating a swift pace of development once the contract is awarded.
Design and Scale of the New CCS Buildings
The proposed CCS 4 and 5 will be substantial structures. Each building will feature seven floors above ground plus a basement level. Together, they will cover a vast area of 3.04 lakh square metres. This design aims to consolidate government offices, improving efficiency and modernizing the administrative heart of the capital.
These two buildings form part of a larger plan for ten CCS buildings under the Central Vista initiative. The project, launched in 2019, seeks to transform the central administrative area of New Delhi.
Progress on the Overall Central Vista Plan
With this latest tender, work has now commenced on all ten proposed CCS buildings. The first three buildings—CCS 1, 2, and 3—were inaugurated last year. They are now known as Kartavya Bhawan 1, 2, and 3. The remaining buildings are either under construction or at various stages of the tendering process.
The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry announced the comprehensive Central Vista redevelopment plan in 2019. Beyond the CCS buildings, the project includes several other key components:
- The new Parliament building, completed in 2023.
- The Vice-President’s Enclave, finished in 2024.
- Ten CCS buildings to house all Union ministries.
- A new office and residence for the Prime Minister.
This redevelopment represents one of the most significant urban infrastructure projects in recent Indian history. It aims to modernize government facilities, enhance operational synergy, and redefine the architectural landscape of central Delhi.
The invitation of bids for demolishing Krishi Bhawan and Shastri Bhawan signals a tangible move from planning to execution. Residents and observers can expect visible changes on the ground as these historic buildings give way to new, state-of-the-art administrative complexes.
