The proposal regarding redevelopment of the two lawns at India Gate, owned by the central public works department (CPWD), was tabled before the Delhi Urban Arts Commission meeting on November 8. It included constructing musical fountains in the ponds, additional pedestrian paths, a tourist plaza and the plantation of additional trees.
The proposal regarding the two lawns, owned by the central public works department (CPWD), was tabled before the DUAC meeting on November 8. The DUAC is the apex body for approving all new constructions in the city. It is also responsible for preserving, developing and maintaining the aesthetic quality of urban and environmental design in the national capital. Its directions are binding on all government agencies.
According to the minutes of DUAC meeting, the CPWD had proposed musical fountains in the ponds, additional pedestrian paths, a tourist plaza and the plantation of additional trees.
Rejecting the proposal, the DUAC said, “The proposal seems to have been over-designed by creating too many elements that do not seem to respect the spirit of the Central Vista Heritage Zone.”
The DUAC observed that musical fountains in the ponds were not acceptable. It directed the CPWD that it should avoid concrete surfaces on the lawns. “The additional pedestrian path proposed as entry plaza/seating deck is disturbing the integrity of existing design and therefore needs to be re-looked into…the tourist plaza proposed in lawns 5 and 6 needs reconsideration,” the DUAC observed.
With this, there is no clarity on the future course of action as both DUAC and CPWD officials refused comment on the matter.
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