PM Modi to inaugurate Kartavya Path today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will on Thursday inaugurate the newly-christened ‘Kartavya Path’ — a stretch from Rashtrapati Bhawan to India Gate that will have red granite walkways with greenery all around, refurbished canals, state-wise food stalls, new amenity blocks and also vending kiosks.

According to the Government, it symbolises a shift from erstwhile Rajpath being an icon of power to ‘Kartavya Path’ being an example of public ownership and empowerment.

Modi will also unveil a statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at India Gate. These steps are in line with the Prime Minister’s second ‘Panch Pran’ for New India in Amrit Kaal: ‘remove any trace of colonial mindset’, it said.

The CPWD has set up five vending zones where 40 vendors each will be allowed and two blocks near the India Gate with eight shops each. Some States have shown their interest to set up their food stalls.

The entire stretch has been revamped under the Modi Government’s ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project.

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s office said that over the years, Rajpath and adjoining areas of the Central Vista Avenue had been witnessing pressure of increasing traffic of visitors, putting stress on its infrastructure.

It lacked basic amenities like public toilets, drinking water, street furniture and adequate parking space. Further, there was inadequate signage, poor maintenance of water features and haphazard parking.

Also, a need was felt to organise the Republic Day parade and other national events in a less disruptive manner with minimal restrictions on public movement.

“The redevelopment has been done bearing these concerns in mind while also ensuring the integrity and continuity of architectural character,” the statement said. ‘Kartavya Path’ will exhibit beautified landscapes, lawns with walkways, added green spaces, refurbished canals, new amenity blocks, improved signages and vending kiosks.

Further, new pedestrian underpasses, improved parking spaces, new exhibition panels and upgraded night lighting are some other features that will enhance the public experience.