Maharashtra Government Greenlights Rs 1,000+ Crore Nagpur Vidhan Bhavan Complex
The Maharashtra government on Thursday formally approved the construction of a new Vidhan Bhavan complex in Nagpur at a cost exceeding Rs 1,000 crore. This decision follows the Cabinet Infrastructure Development Committee's clearance of the project on March 11.
Project Timeline and Leadership
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who chaired the committee meeting in Mumbai, has directed officials to ensure the complex is completed by 2028. The Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC) has been appointed as the implementing agency for both components of the project.
Two-Plot Expansion Plan
The expansion covers two plots on the existing Vidhan Bhavan premises:
- Plot 1: Earmarked for the new legislative building and annexe structures, approved at Rs 662.89 crore (inclusive of GST and other percentages).
- Plot 2: Will house a new administrative building for legislature-related work and offices for political parties registered in Maharashtra, cleared at Rs 339.78 crore on the same terms.
Procurement and Funding Mechanism
Tenders for both plots will be floated on an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) basis. MSIDC is required to comply with conditions stipulated by the high-powered secretary committee. The Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat will issue administrative approval orders and make funds available for execution.
Replacing the Historic Structure
The new complex will replace the existing Vidhan Bhavan, a British-era building dating to 1920 that has long been considered inadequate for present-day legislative requirements. The main structure on Plot 1 comprises A, B and C blocks across four floors with a built-up area of 62,924 square feet.
Legislative Capacity and Facilities
The new assembly hall will seat 400 members, while the legislative council chamber will accommodate 120. The central hall is designed for approximately 700 people, enabling joint sittings of both Houses. The complex will also house offices for the Chief Minister, deputy chief ministers, assembly Speaker, council Chairman, and leaders of opposition, along with committee rooms, media facilities, parking, cafeterias, and a dedicated security zone.
Administrative Tower Specifications
The administrative tower on Plot 2 will be a 14-storey structure spread over 4 lakh square feet, built on 9,670 square meters of land transferred to the Legislature Secretariat from the Government Press and Library at Civil Lines. This building will be connected to the main Vidhan Bhavan by an underground tunnel.
Design and Vision
The project has been designed by renowned architect Hafeez Contractor. When the blueprint was unveiled in Mumbai in July last year, Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar called for the complex to be grand and iconic. Chief Minister Fadnavis emphasized incorporating green building principles and public-friendly amenities into the design.
