Central Vista Project: Latest News, Plans, and What It Means for Delhi

If you’ve been following Delhi’s skyline, you’ve probably heard a lot about the Central Vista Project. It’s the massive redevelopment plan that aims to modernise the area around India’s Parliament, but it’s also sparking heated debates. In this guide we’ll break down the basics, the current progress, and why everyday folks should care.

What is the Central Vista Project?

The Central Vista Project is a government‑led initiative to revamp the 300‑acre ceremonial corridor in New Delhi. The plan includes a new Parliament building, revamped ministries, a bigger public space, and upgraded infrastructure like roads and parking. The idea is to create a “world‑class” administrative hub while preserving the city’s historic vibe.

Key components are:

• New Parliament building with a larger seating capacity.
• Re‑imagined Secretariat buildings for ministries.
• Expanded Central Vista plaza for public gatherings.
• Improved traffic flow and underground parking.
• Landscaped gardens and heritage-sensitive designs.

Current Status and Public Reaction

Construction kicked off in early 2021, and as of mid‑2025 the new Parliament shell is topped out. Work on the ministries is at 60 % completion, while the public plaza is still in the design phase. The total cost has ballooned to around ₹20,000 crore, far above the original estimate.

People’s reactions are mixed. Supporters say the project will boost efficiency and give Delhi a modern identity. Critics argue it threatens heritage sites, displaces locals, and drains funds that could go to health or education. Protests have been organized near the site, and several heritage groups have filed legal challenges.

For commuters, the most immediate impact is road closures and altered traffic patterns around the Secretariat area. The government has promised alternate routes and real‑time updates via a mobile app, but many commuters still face delays during peak hours.

If you own a business nearby, you might notice a temporary dip in foot traffic as construction zones shift pedestrian flow. On the flip side, the eventual upgrade could bring more visitors and improve the overall ambience of the district.

One practical tip: keep an eye on the Delhi Traffic Police’s alerts on social media. They post daily updates on which streets are blocked and suggest the best detours. This can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Environmentally, the project claims to use green building standards, including rainwater harvesting and solar panels. Independent audits, however, are still pending, so the real impact on Delhi’s carbon footprint remains to be seen.

Looking ahead, the next major milestone is the inauguration of the new Parliament building, expected by late 2025. After that, the focus will shift to finishing the ministries and finally opening the Central Vista plaza to the public.

In short, the Central Vista Project is reshaping a historic part of Delhi. Whether you’re a resident, a commuter, or just curious about India’s capital, staying updated on the timeline, budget changes, and community response will help you navigate the transition smoothly.