Explore the striking differences between the new Parliament building and the iconic current structure.
As the world’s largest democracy prepares for the opening of the Central Vista project updated seat on May 28, we look at the differences between these two architectural marvels.
Aside from the noticeable differences in shape and design, a variety of things contribute to each building’s individuality.
Join us as we examine the key differences between the soon-to-be-inaugurated and present Parliaments.
Increased Seating Capacity
With the upcoming delimitation exercise in 2026 in mind, the new Parliament building under the Central Vista project has been designed to meet the evolving needs of the country’s legislative bodies.
While the existing Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha seats are 552 and 284, respectively, the expanded capacity of the future Parliament will allow for 888 Lower House seats and 384 Upper House members.
This increase assures a more diverse representation of parliamentarians, which benefits the democratic process.
Redesigned for Joint Sessions
In contrast to the current Parliament’s center hall, which seats 436 people for joint sessions, the new construction takes a different approach.
The rebuilt Lok Sabha hall, which can seat up to 1,272 people, would be the designated location for holding joint sessions.
This change allows both Houses to be seamlessly integrated through collaborative discussions and decision-making processes.
Embracing Modernity and Accessibility
The existing Parliament building, which dates back to the 1920s, initially lacked modern conveniences.
Although future improvements attempted to solve these flaws, they were frequently implemented haphazardly.
The new Parliament structure, on the other hand, incorporates cutting-edge technologies to improve functionality and accessibility.
Biometric voting devices, computerized language interpretation or translation mechanisms, and programmable microphones ensure a more efficient and inclusive legislative environment.
Furthermore, the new structure meets the needs of people with impairments by providing greater accessibility across its grounds.
Consolidating Ministries and Maximizing Space
Central Vista now contains 39 Ministries, with 12 Ministries operating outside the campus owing to capacity constraints.
The new Parliament building aims to integrate these disparate entities by incorporating all 51 Ministries into the Central Vista complex.
The government hopes to encourage more collaboration and synergy among multiple ministries by efficiently merging these offices, facilitating efficient decision-making and streamlined governance.
Enhancing Safety and Sustainability
Safety and sustainability are at the forefront of the design philosophy for the new Parliament building.
Recognizing the seismic shift in Delhi’s susceptibility, from seismic zone II during initial construction to seismic zone IV now, the new structure is strengthened to withstand potential seismic shocks.
Furthermore, the new structure avoids the risks associated with the prior structure, which relied on many extra electrical wires to mitigate fire concerns.
This dedication to safety guarantees a safe parliamentary environment for legislators and personnel.
Seamless Connectivity
The Central Vista project concept envisions an Automated People Mover, a 3.1-kilometer-long subterranean transportation system.
This cutting-edge transportation network will connect and integrate all buildings within the Common Central Secretariat.
This Automated People Mover will serve the transportation needs of government employees working in these structures by operating in a closed loop.
Furthermore, at Udyog Bhawan and Central Secretariat Stations, the system would enable seamless connectivity to the existing Delhi Metro Network, complementing the city’s comprehensive transportation infrastructure.
Conclusion
As the new Parliament building prepares for its grand opening, the qualities that set it apart from the current edifice become clear.
The expanded seating capacity, lack of a central chamber, inclusion of current technologies, consolidation of ministries, greater safety measures, and enhanced connectivity all contribute to the forthcoming legislative headquarters’ revolutionary nature.
The new Parliament strives to empower parliamentarians, inspire collaboration, and symbolize the developing ideals of India’s vibrant democracy through its improved design, functionality, and adaptability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the significance of the new Parliament building?
The new Parliament building is significant because it represents a modernized and technologically advanced seat for the world’s largest democracy’s MPs.
It strives to improve amenities, seating capacity, accessibility, and connectivity, ultimately supporting efficient government and democratic procedures.
Q2. How does the seating capacity of the new Parliament compare to the existing one?
The new Parliament building is intended to house a bigger number of lawmakers. It will have 888 Lok Sabha seats instead of the present 552 seats.
Furthermore, the Rajya Sabha will be able to accommodate 384 lawmakers, up from the current 284 seats.
Q3. What changes have been made to facilitate joint sessions of the House?
Unlike the current Parliament, which includes a central hall for joint sessions with a seating capacity of 436, the new structure will hold joint sessions in the rebuilt Lok Sabha hall.
The renovated hall can seat up to 1,272 people, providing a more spacious and collaborative setting for joint meetings.
Q4. How does the new Parliament building incorporate modern technologies?
To improve functioning and accessibility, the new Parliament building incorporates cutting-edge technologies.
It has cutting-edge features such as biometric voting systems, digital language interpretation or translation systems, and programmable microphones.
These innovations make legislative processes run more smoothly and meet the demands of both members and visitors.
Q5. Will the new Parliament building have improved facilities for people with disabilities?
Yes, the new Parliament building is intended to make it easier for individuals with impairments to use.
It will have features and infrastructure that will allow for easy mobility and inclusion across the premises.
This dedication to accessibility is consistent with the principles of equality and inclusion in governance.
Q6. What is the purpose of consolidating ministries within the Central Vista complex?
The new Parliament building will house all 51 Ministries, which are currently spread over Central Vista and other places.
Also, the government hopes to strengthen collaboration, expedite decision-making processes, and improve operational efficiency in governance by integrating several ministries under the complex.
Q7. How does the new Parliament building prioritize safety?
The new Parliament building takes into mind changing safety standards. Given Delhi’s seismic sensitivity shift from seismic zone II to seismic zone IV, the structure is built to withstand potential seismic shocks.
As well as the design also reduces possible fire concerns related to the prior building’s electrical infrastructure.
Q8. How will the new Parliament building improve connectivity and transportation?
The Central Vista project comprises the development of an Automated People Mover, a type of underground transportation system.
This 3.1-kilometer-long system will connect and integrate all buildings within the Common Central Secretariat.
It would provide convenient transit for government employees as well as connect to the existing Delhi Metro Network, hence improving overall connectivity in the area.
Q9. When is the inauguration of the new Parliament building scheduled to take place?
The new Parliament building is inaugurated on May 28, marking a key milestone in the evolution of India’s parliamentary infrastructure.
Q10. What are the anticipated benefits of the new Parliament building for lawmakers and the democratic process?
The new Parliament building will give legislators a more contemporary and efficient working environment. It will have more amenities, more seating capacity, innovative technologies, better accessibility, and seamless communication.
These elements lead to more efficient legislative operations, sound decision-making, and a more inclusive democratic process.
