New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Kartavya Path (formerly named Rajpath) on Thursday. It is a stretch of the Central Vista from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.
The revamped path will have red granite walkways, refurbished canals, state-wise food stalls, vending kiosks, and amenity blocks. Five zones have been set up where 40 vendors will be allowed. Two blocks have been allotted near India Gate as well which can accommodate eight shops each.
The Prime Minister's office said that Rajpath and adjoining areas of Central Vista Avenue have been witnessing increasing traffic of visitors in the past few years. This has put stress on its infrastructure. It also lacked basic amenities like public toilets, drinking water, street furniture, and adequate parking space.
The need to organise national events like the Republic Day parade with minimal restrictions on public movement was also taken into account. "The redevelopment has been done bearing these concerns in mind while also ensuring the integrity and continuity of architectural character."
Parking spaces, new exhibition panels, and upgraded night lighting are some features that are meant to enhance the public experience. The area has been revamped to create a pleasant experience for visitors. There are 19 acres of total canal area fitted with aerators and 16 bridges. Boating will be allowed in two canals - one near Krishi Bhawan and another around Vanijya Bhawan.
An official statement said that it symbolises a shift from erstwhile Rajpath being an icon of power to Kartavya Path being an example of public ownership and empowerment. At tomorrow's ceremony, the PM will unveil a statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at India Gate. These are part of the efforts to remove any trace of colonial mindset.
For tomorrow's event, there will be heavy deployment of police personnel and security guards to ensure that there is no theft and damage to newly-installed facilities. Around 80 security guards will keep an eye on the stretch. Officials told PTI that the cleanliness of the path is a top priority and large teams of sanitation workers will be deployed.