Kartavya Path, the two-kilometre stretch from India Gate to Rashtrapati Bhawan in New Delhi, formerly known as Rajpath, was inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi on September 8, 2022. The decision to rename Rajpath was made after a meeting of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). PM Modi also unveiled a 28-ft statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the India Gate during the event.
The newly-inaugurated corridor is a part of the government’s ambitious Central Vista redevelopment project, for developing new governance infrastructure and upgrading the existing government buildings. Under the project, the government has conceptualised a new triangular structure for Parliament, a common central secretariat, a new prime minister’s residence and office and a new vice-president’s enclave. The cost of this redevelopment project is around Rs 13,450 crore. The estimated cost for the revamped Rajpath stretch is around Rs 477 crore.
Referring to Rajpath, also known as Kingsway during the British rule, as a symbol of slavery, PM Modi said that history has been created with the inauguration of the renovated Central Vista Avenue. The Kartavya Path was opened to public on September 9, 2022. Here are some interesting things to know about Kartavya Path.
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Kartavya Path: Features
One of the most frequented tourist spots in the national capital, the Kartavya Path is an important road where the Republic Day parade takes place on January 26 every year.
Here are some of the features of Kartavya Path.
- There are new and enhanced structures along the corridor, including renovated stone pavements and red granite walkways of over 15.5 km, surrounded by greenery.
- The area has 987 complete pillars, over 900 LED lamps, 415 benches, and 114 sign boards. Moreover, drinking water and washroom facilities have been provided at multiple points.
- Renovated canals, state-wise food stalls, new amenity blocks and vending kiosks will be set up along the road. The water canals span an area of 19 acres.
- New parking lots have been designed near the redeveloped stretch. The parking area can accommodate over 1,100 cars and 35 buses. The NDMC will levy the parking fees.
- New signboards for Kartavya Path have been installed in the area.
- Four new pedestrian underpasses have been constructed at busy junctions to segregate vehicular traffic from pedestrian movement and ensure safety.
- The Central Public Works Department (CPWD), the government agency that will execute the project, 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 sustainability features such as solid waste management, recycling unit, storm-water management, rainwater harvesting, water conservation and energy-efficient lighting systems are installed here.
Kartavya Path: Key facts
| Project name | Central Vista Redevelopment Project |
| Project start date | September 2019 |
| Inaugurated on | September 8, 2022 |
| Expected completion date | 2026 |
| Project cost | Rs 13,450 crore |
| Executing agency | Central Public Works Department (CPWD) |
| Kartavya Path Timings | Open to visitors all time |
Kartavya Path: Landmarks
Rashtrapati Bhavan
The Rashtrapati Bhavan was constructed between 1912 and 1929 and is now the official house of the Indian president. Before India’s independence, it was the official residence of the viceroy.
India Gate (All India War Memorial)
India Gate is the war memorial arch built in honour of the soldiers who died in the first World War and the Anglo-Afghan War. The 42-metre-long iconic structure stands on the eastern edge of the ceremonial avenue in New Delhi.
National War Memorial (India)
Inaugurated in 2019, the National War Memorial is a monument built in the memory of the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country during various conflicts since Independence and other humanitarian operations.
Vijay Chowk
Vijay Chowk is the venue for the Beating Retreat ceremony that takes place on January 29 every year, after the Republic Day celebrations.
North Block and South Block
Important offices, such as the prime minister’s office, are in the secretariat buildings. The North Block includes the offices of the finance and home ministries, while the South Block has the offices of the external affairs and the defence ministries.
How to reach Kartavya Path?
Citizens can reach Rajpath through the Delhi Metro Violet line and get down at the Janpath metro station. Central Vista Avenue is accessible by the Delhi Metro bus from Bhairon Road. There are six electric buses of DMRC serving along the route from 5 pm to 9 pm. Commuters can get down at Gate number 1 of the national stadium.
FAQs
What is the length of the Kartavya Path?
The Kartavya Path covers a distance of two kilometres.
What is the nearest metro station to Kartavya Path?
Janpath metro station is the nearest metro station to Kartavya Path.