Pragati Maidan to get world-class makeover, with helipad in the mix

Gurgaon-based Feedback Infra along with Australian design firm Populus are the advisors and project management consultants in-charge of the makeover. Last week, LC Goyal, CMD, ITPO announced the project would be completed in two phases; and the first phase would cost between Rs 2,500 and 3,000 crore.

“The current master plan envisages the convention centre on a raised platform, with floor-to-ceiling height of 12-15 m and break-out areas. There will be a grand entrance… The design will follow norms laid out by the Delhi Development Authority and Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC),” said Babel.

Since Pragati Maidan is next to the Old Fort, the design has taken the heritage value of the area into consideration. “Once the visitor parks his/her car in the basement and walks up, he/she will arrive at the large 15-acre central podium. Travellators to take one to their desired exhibition hall or convention centre. This central space can hold nearly 25,000 people and can be used for events. Even defence expos can be hosted,” said Babel.

Even as the state-of-the-art complex is waiting to be built, architect Raj Rewal — who has designed two world-renowned buildings, the Hall Of Nations and the Nehru Pavilion — objected to demolishing the structures which are on the same premises. He is not alone. Over 1,500 architects have signed a petition to save these buildings.

“The Hall of Nations was built to commemorate India’s 25th year of Independence in 1972. Its 250-ft large-span frame in reinforced concrete is the world’s largest and unique structure.. The project has also been exhibited in the permanent collection of Pompidou museum, Paris, and the National Gallery of Modern Art… The adjoining Nehru Pavilion with its grass mounds and Buddhist imagery encloses a small museum dedicated to India’s first prime minister. It would be wrong to desecrate the memory of Nehru and demolish a museum which has priceless historical documents on his life…,” said Rewal.