Central “New Parliament Building Nearing Completion – Budget Session Approaching!”

The new Parliament building is nearing completion this week as last-minute preparations are underway for the Budget Session starting on January 31. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), in charge of the construction of the new Parliament and Central Vista redevelopment, has released photos of the triangular-shaped structure’s interiors. The latest photos on the ministry’s website, centralvista.gov.in, showcase workers putting final touches on the Lok Sabha chamber, artwork in the corridors, and ongoing courtyard work on January 16.

Although the project missed the November 2022 deadline, ministry officials now expect completion by the end of January. It remains uncertain if the Session will commence in the new building or if the second part will be held there. The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued tenders this week to prepare the new Parliament, including one for developing the plot for services on Raisina Road and Red Cross Road, and another for mechanized housekeeping for 36 months.

Initially awarded to Tata Projects for Rs.861.9 crore in 2020, the project’s cost has reportedly escalated to at least Rs.1,200 crore due to factors like the increase in GST on construction. Designed by HCP Design, Planning and Management, led by architect Bimal Patel, the new building stands adjacent to the existing Parliament House. Construction began in January 2021, with Tata Projects as the CPWD’s contractor. The Lok Sabha chamber in the new building has 888 seats, with potential for more MPs in the future, while the Rajya Sabha chamber has 384 seats. The Upper House features lotus themes, while the Lok Sabha showcases peacock motifs. There is no Central Hall in the new building; instead, joint sessions will be held in the Lok Sabha chamber.

According to MoHUA’s Central Vista website, the new Parliament will incorporate traditional motifs and elements with extensive use of wooden structures. Additionally, the floors will be adorned with hand-knotted carpets from Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh.