central vista project upsc

What is Central Vista Project UPSC ?

Central Vista Project UPSC

Central vista is part of the pre-independence master plan for New Delhi, which had the plan to build an administrative building along both sides of Rajpath. The new central vista building is the Government's way of defining new India. At present, there are 51 government offices scattered across Delhi, which results in wasteful travel, high cost and environmental damage.

In the new central vista building, all these offices will be brought together to synergize the workings of ministers. The transformation will begin with developing the parliament house and other administrative buildings with smarter upgrades and the latest technology. Recently the project has caught much attention and is likely to appear Central Vista Project UPSC exam.

But, before we dig deep into the redevelopment project of central vista, let us first know a little bit of its history.

History of the Central Vista

Leading British architects Edwin Lutens and Herbert Baker envisaged the complex as the center of administration in India to house all facilities needed for the Government's efficient functioning.

Accordingly, the old central vista was inaugurated in 1931. It comprised the buildings, namely Rashtrapati Bhawan, Parliament House, North and South Blocks, and the Record Office (later named the National Archives) with the India Gate monument and the civic gardens on either side of the Rajpath.

At the time, it was one of the largest projects in the world, conceived and designed to reflect India's spirit, progress, and global importance. The planning committee was set up to search the place and build up the democratic temple of India; the location chosen was found in the south of Shahjahanabad, now known as Purana Qila. To build the country's new capital, the existing terrain was needed to be altered, which included flattering the hillock and landscapes.

After a long duration of planning and plotting, the new capital was completed in 1929, and it was inaugurated in 1931. It was a spectacular architectural achievement and remains so even today. Finally, on 15 August 1947, India got freedom from British rule, and Central Vista News made headlines in newspapers worldwide.

Moving Fast Forward to Post Indian Independence Era and Central Vista Buildings

The imperial buildings were unhesitatingly embraced and appreciated by the citizens of India as the seat of the Government of India. The imperial buildings at Central Vista Avenue continue to serve as an important space for Indian diplomacy.

Central Vista Avenue comprises Rajpath and India Gate lawns. Rajpath is a ceremonial boulevard that runs from Rashtrapati Bhavan on Raisina Hill through Vijay Chowk and India Gate, National War Memorial, to National Stadium.

The Avenue is lined by lawns, canals, and rows of trees. Considered to be one of the most important roads in Delhi, it is where the annual Republic Day parade takes place on 26 January. Initially, the road was named King's Way (or Kingsway), in honor of the Emperor of India George V., He had visited Delhi during the Durbar of 1911, where he formally proclaimed the decision to move the capital. Post-independence, the road was given its Hindi name, 'Rajpath.'

With the central vista project development, the heat has been raised for the budget, employment, Central Vista Project Environmental Impact, and various aspects. However, since the Government and the supreme court have always supported the reconstruction and refurbishing of the central vista building, the project is running smoothly. It is expected to be ended by the year 2024.

This article consists of information regarding the Central Vista Project UPSC questions, which will help the aspirants in their preparations.

Benefits of Strengthening and Refurbishing the Central Vista

Governance Benefits of Strengthening and Refurbishing the Central Vista

Boosting the economy: As per a study, strengthening and refurbishing the Central Vista will inject more than $20 billion into some of India's most important institutions and infrastructure over the next decade. The project will generate more than 100,000 new jobs in its first phase.Strengthening the national capital's institutional framework: Key government agencies, policymaking institutions, and national landmarks would be located within walking distance without moving through crowded city roads and chaotic traffic conditions. This would enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in administration.New Central vista: The new Central vista will provide better public spaces for everyone to enjoy. Several ministries need space for their offices to conduct their activities directly or indirectly related to their ministry efficiently and manage their core business without causing any hindrance by the traffic chaos throughout Delhi city.

Social Benefits of Strengthening and Refurbishing the Central Vista

Greater energy efficiency: Building a taller building with better insulation on the lower floors will reduce the overall energy consumption and reduce 5-7% of Delhi's carbon emissions by 2024.As per Central Vista News, the project will reduce the environmental impacts and losses. It will be a huge boost for tourism in Delhi.The plans will engage out-of-town contractors and finish the work quicker, leading to a higher rate of completion of work.The landscape architecture and its strategic location in Delhi serve as a highly important area that reflects Indian culture, architecture, and heritage into India's history.The new Central vista will also aid the Delhi government's efforts to ensure the city is free of open burning of solid waste and informal waste recycling.Central Vista Project Environmental Impact

Environmental Sustainability is at the core of the Central Vista Development/Redevelopment Master Plan, with a comprehensive approach to use centralized systems and infrastructure, promote public transport, and have upgradeable technology, systems, and services.

The Central vista development will aim to reduce the city's carbon and energy footprint, making it more sustainable. The development will create green buildings with solar panels and geothermal technology. It will also promote public transport such as metro, light rail, and bus rapid transit systems.New parks and greenery will be created along the Rajpath, which would remove air pollution from Delhi, particularly from the pollution caused by random and uncollected garbage burning in open spaces around central vista and boost tourism as green cover in New Delhi.The new Central vista will contribute to Delhi's green plan by reducing the urban heat island and improving air quality. The project will make the best use of the available land and space.

This will benefit the people living in or around central vista by creating a cluster of high-quality infrastructures. To know everything related to Central Vista Project UPSC question information, visit the official website . Read more : https://bit.ly/3Iy7pBx