The structure of the existing parliament building is not earthquake proof, court officer told court (File)
New Delhi:
The Center told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that the Central Vista project, covering a three-km stretch from Rashtrapati Bhavan to the India Gate at Lutyens in Delhi, would “save money” which is paid in the form of rent. for housing of central government departments in the national capital.
He argued that the decision to have a new parliament building was not taken in haste and that no laws or standards were violated in any way for the project.
The Center said a new parliament building was needed as many occupants indicated the shortcomings of the current one.
Opposing petitions that raised questions on several aspects, including the environmental clearance (CE) granted to the project, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told a bench led by Judge AM Khanwilkar that having all departments in one place would increase efficiency and ensure better coordination. between them.
The lawyer argued before the judiciary, which also includes Justices Dinesh Maheshwari and Sanjiv Khanna, that the structure of the existing parliament building is not earthquake proof and that the new parliament building would complement the existing one. .
“Even after 73 years of independence, the country does not have a central secretariat. Various ministries have rented premises. Thousands of crores in rent are paid for the housing of central government ministries. ‘save money,’ said the solicitor general.
The overhaul, which was announced in September last year, envisions a new triangular parliament building, with a capacity of 900 to 1,200 MPs, to be built by August 2022, when the country celebrates its 75th day. of independence.
