Modi, who is seeking a third term in elections scheduled for 2024, wants to “remove any trace of colonial fervor” with the rebuilding of Central Vista – an area spanning about two miles that was built under regulations to mark the founding of India’s new capital in 2017. 1920’s.

It is home to India’s most iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, the Presidential Palace and the India Gate War Memorial, as well as some of the largest green spaces in this city of about 20 million square feet.

“In this 75th year of independence, the country has found new inspiration,” Modi said in a speech at India’s Gate on Thursday. “A symbol of slavery, the Kingsway, or Rajpath, has become ancient history from this day forward.”

Central Vista’s redevelopment plans include building a new Parliament House and relocating all federal ministers to the complex area, which has drawn objections from conservationists who believe this will obliterate the history and character of the area.

However, the project’s architect, Bimal Patel, said in an interview with The Indian Express in 2020 that rebuilding was not cut off from the past. (https://bit.ly/3cXCN0Q)

“What we’re trying to do is respect the story, maybe even reinforce the original intent by using architecture to reinforce the original schematic,” Patel said.

His company HCP Design, Planning and Management Pvt Ltd did not immediately respond to a request from Reuters.

On Thursday, Modi inaugurated the ‘Rajpath’ – a thoroughfare in the center of the complex used for ceremonial military parades – now renamed ‘Jalan Kartavya’, or duty lane, along with a statue of independence fighter Subhas Chandra bos.

“Kartavya Road will feature beautified landscapes, lawns with walkways, additional green space, updated canals, new convenience blocks, upgraded signage and vending stalls,” according to a government statement.

The government plans to complete the Central Vista redevelopment project by 2024.