In preparation for the upcoming winter session, the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has been entrusted with the responsibility of finalizing various enhancements and repairs in the new Parliament building. These improvements range from addressing acoustic issues in the Lok Sabha chamber to catering to the specific furniture needs of parliamentary members.
The new Parliament building made its debut during the Special Session of Parliament held in September. It was during this session that an acoustic anomaly was noted. While the installation of acoustic tiles has since been completed to mitigate this issue, certain materials are now being replaced to eliminate any lingering echoes. Additionally, new furniture items are being procured to accommodate the revised requirements put forth by members who have transitioned to the new premises. Furthermore, the restroom facilities within the new building are being finalized.
These meticulous adjustments are the outcome of valuable feedback provided by ministers, parliamentarians, and staff working within the building. Sources within the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs and the Lok Sabha have corroborated these ongoing enhancements. It’s worth noting that apart from these minor refinements, there is concurrent civil work still in progress within the new building, which remains inaccessible to Parliament staff and visitors.
In recent weeks, the CPWD has issued tenders worth Rs 6.64 crore for ancillary works, encompassing security installations, plumbing connections, storage solutions, and various other furniture requisites. Another tender worth Rs 5.99 lakh has been issued for the replacement of damaged sandstone in three courtyards of Parliament House. Additionally, a tender valued at Rs 20 crore has been released for “landscape and hardscape” work in the Parliament Complex. These endeavors, as per CPWD assurances, will be accomplished in time for the winter session, the dates of which are yet to be officially announced but traditionally commence towards the end of November or early December.
The new Parliament building sparked a spirited debate following the special session in September, with BJP and Congress MPs expressing divergent views. Notably, Congress Rajya Sabha MP Jairam Ramesh lamented the altered ambiance, declaring that the cherished atmosphere of the old building had diminished. Meanwhile, BJP President and Rajya Sabha MP J P Nadda rebutted these sentiments, deeming them an insult to the aspirations of the Indian populace. It is worth highlighting that the new building was inaugurated on May 28 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant milestone within the Central Vista redevelopment project. Simultaneously, construction efforts persist on multiple structures, including the Common Central Secretariat, the Executive Enclave housing the Prime Minister’s Office, the Prime Minister’s Residence, and the Vice-President’s Enclave.
