NEW DELHI – Two prominent government office complexes in central Delhi, Shastri Bhawan and Krishi Bhawan, are slated for vacation by September 30. This directive from the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) marks a significant step forward for the ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project, specifically the construction of the new Common Central Secretariat buildings, Kartavya Bhawan 4 and 5.
Deadline Set for Handover
The CPWD has formally requested the concerned authorities to hand over the existing premises by the end of the month. This follows the recent awarding of the construction tender for Kartavya Bhawan 4 and 5, located at Plot No. 120, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Road, New Delhi. The new structures are planned to occupy the exact footprint currently held by Shastri Bhawan and Krishi Bhawan.
The urgent handover is critical to enable the executing agency to take possession of the site and commence construction activities as per schedule. The CPWD letter, dated September 16, specifically emphasized the need to prioritize the vacation process within the stipulated timeline.
₹3,155 Crore Project Underway
The Kartavya Bhawan 4 and 5 project carries an estimated cost of ₹3,155 crore, which includes five years of essential operation and maintenance. The construction phase for these new buildings is projected to span 24 months from the start date. This development signifies a transition from the planning and tendering stages to the physical execution of the Central Vista Project.
Ministries to Relocate
For decades, Shastri Bhawan and Krishi Bhawan have served as crucial administrative hubs, housing several key government ministries and departments. These include the Ministries of Education, Information and Broadcasting, Women and Child Development, Agriculture, Social Justice, and Corporate Affairs.
The vacation of these complexes necessitates the relocation of numerous offices and personnel. Completing this relocation process and clearing the site by the September 30 deadline is now an immediate priority for all involved agencies. Once the premises are successfully handed over, construction of the new Kartavya Bhawan 4 and 5 can begin, furthering the government's broader objective of consolidating and reorganizing the Central Secretariat under the ongoing Central Vista redevelopment program.