The much-anticipated project to build a landmark clock tower in the heart of New Delhi has hit a snag. Officials from the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) have indicated that the construction at the busy Shankar Road–Mandir Marg junction, near Talkatora Stadium, is now expected to be delayed by approximately two months.
Reasons Behind the Setback
The foundation stone for this distinctive structure was laid by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena in August of last year, with an initial completion deadline set for January 31. However, the project timeline has been extended. Authorities cite two primary reasons for the delay. Firstly, construction restrictions imposed under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is activated to combat air pollution in the national capital, hampered progress. Secondly, the site preparation phase encountered unexpected challenges.
After excavation began, the area was found to be rocky, requiring additional time and effort for levelling, explained an official involved in the project. The good news is that the foundational work for the tower is now complete, and the remaining construction is slated to be finished within the next two months.
Architectural Grandeur and Design Details
This is not just any ordinary clock tower. Designed to be a fusion of Hindu, Mughal, and colonial architectural styles, the nearly 27-metre octagonal structure aims to revive Delhi's heritage charm. With a budget of Rs 1.8 crore, the tower is engineered for durability and safety.
The tower will be constructed using reinforced concrete to withstand wind and seismic forces, supported by RCC raft foundations. As per the initial plan, the exterior will feature brick cladding with finished joints. The approved design also includes intricate stone engravings on the façade, which will be polished and highlighted with sufficient lighting to accentuate the architectural details.
A New Landmark for the Capital
Once completed, the tower is poised to become a significant landmark. An official highlighted that this grand clock tower will mark a key junction serving as an entry point to the NDMC zone and is expected to draw a large number of visitors. The clock itself, to be installed at the top, will boast a state-of-the-art design. It is being built for long durability and weather resistance and will be equipped with both backlighting and front-lighting for clear visibility day and night.
The project represents a conscious effort to blend historical architectural motifs with modern engineering, creating a new focal point that celebrates Delhi's layered past while serving its present.
