Work on to link subway to Gole Market museum

New Delhi: As part of the Gole Market Museum redevelopment project, New Delhi Municipal Council’s architect department has begun drafting plans for construction of a subway, designed to enhance the museum’s accessibility and connectivity while preserving its historical significance.
"As per initial plan, provision for a subway from the RK Ashram Marg was supposed to be made so that the people can reach the museum (situated in the centre of a busy traffic roundabout) easily.A consultant has been engaged to conduct surveys and explore options for developing the facility," said Satish Upadhyay, vice chairman of NDMC.
Currently, foundation of the century-old heritage building is being strengthened and the debris collected after removing the damaged plaster has been cleared. “The next steps involve strengthening the parapet on the first-floor structure wall and creating ventilation ducts at the ground level for the dome-shaped structure. Following this, excavation will be carried out up to a depth of 15 feet to construct a subway connecting to RK Ashram Marg,” said Upadhyay.
The project, which includes conservation and restoration of the entire complex, began in Oct 2023, with a targeted completion by Oct 2025.
The conservation process will maintain original shape of the structure, including the arch structures within the premises. "Considering it is a heritage building, all works are done after nod and as per specification of the Heritage Conservation Committee," Upadhyay said. The restoration will utilise materials such as sukhi mortar.
The project's scope encompassed retrofitting, rehabilitation, and conservation of the heritage structure, along with the construction of a service block and a subway. Key features of the project included a glass dome roof structure, central air conditioning, ornamental fittings, and a service block equipped with lifts.
An official previously mentioned, "It will be the first museum in the country dedicated to women achievers of the country and showcase the contributions made by women of India in art, literature, culture, social sector, as well as the struggle for independence."
To address visitors’ parking needs, NDMC identified a plot of land near Gole Market, which belongs to the Land and Development Office and is actively pursuing the matter with the relevant authority.
The historic and iconic Gole Market, designed by Edward Lutyens in 1921, has been awaiting restoration and renovation since 2006. On June 16, 2022, lieutenant governor VK Saxena visited the site and instructed officials to expedite the work. Subsequently, an updated proposal was presented in the council meeting in Aug 2022. On Oct 21, Saxena laid foundation for the project.