GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY
(DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE)

LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 2604
TO BE ANSWERED ON 14TH MARCH, 2016

REVAMP OF PRAGATI MAIDAN

SHRI PR. SENTHIL NATHAN: Will the Minister of COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (वाणिज्य एवं उद्योग मंत्री) be pleased to state: (a) whether the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) is planning a redevelopment project to transform the existing structure in Pragati Maidan into a new, world-class convention centre and if so, the details thereof; (b) whether ITPO has decided to demolish the two iconic structures of Hall of Nations which is India's first

Will the Minister of COMMERCE & INDUSTRY (वाणिज्य एवं उद्योग मंत्री) be pleased to state: 

(a) whether the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) is planning a redevelopment project to transform the existing structure in Pragati Maidan into a new, world-class convention centre and if so, the details thereof; 

(b) whether ITPO has decided to demolish the two iconic structures of Hall of Nations which is India's first pillar less building and Nehru Pavilion;

(c) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons therefor; 

(d) whether requests/representations have been received by the Government from architects to stop demolition of these structures; and 

(e) if so, the details thereof along with the action taken by the Government thereon? 

ANSWER

वाणिज्य एवं उद्योग मंत्री (श्रीमती निर्मला सीतारमण) (स्वतंत्र प्रभार)
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY
(INDEPENDENT CHARGE)
(SMT. NIRMALA SITHARAMAN)

(a): Yes, Madam. The proposal entails total development of 3,26,065 sq. mtrs. of built-up area including 1,19,445 sq. mtrs. of exhibition space, a Convention Centre with seating capacity of 7,000 persons with a number of different sized meeting rooms, space for public circulation, support facilities and parking space for about 4,800 passenger cars in Phase-I of the development plan. In Phase-II, development of 86,225 sq. mtrs. of exhibition space, along with support facilities, is proposed.

(b) & (c): Yes, Madam. The Re-development of Pragati Maidan Complex entails a comprehensive and integrated approach to setting up of a much needed world class Stateof-the Art and Iconic Integrated Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre. This is proposed to be developed in two Phases by dismantling 23 State Pavilions and 5 Central Ministry Pavilions, Halls No.1, 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20 and other building structures coming in the area of Phase-I. The Hall of Nations and Nehru Pavilion are also included in this list.

(d) & (e): Yes, Madam. Representations have been received from M/s Raj Rewal Associates; and Dr. Uddesh Kohli, Chairman, Engineering Council of India. All the representations have been discussed in the meeting of the Board of Directors, ITPO and it was noted that the structures have not been declared as heritage buildings by Delhi Urban Art Commission. Further, it has been decided that all measures would be taken to duly preserve the artefacts kept in the Nehru Pavilion while executing the Redevelopment Project. Further the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi has dismissed the Public Interest Litigation filed by the Indian Institute of Architects and others.

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