Today's Witness Saturday, 30 August 2025, 08:12 PM, ( Updated at 11:30 AM Daily)
BUREAURCRACY
Monday, 11 August, 2025 09:12:PM
Lt. Governor of Delhi, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, today laid the foundation stone of an iconic Clock Tower being built at the junction of Shankar Road and Mandir Marg (near Talkatora Stadium) by New Delhi Municipal Council. The nearly 27 meter tall octagonal Clock Tower is being developed in New Delhi by New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).
The event was graced by Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt Rekha Gupta, Minister of Govt. of Delhi, Shri Parvesh Verma, Member of Parliament (New Delhi) Ms. Bansuri Swaraj, Chairman NDMC,Keshav Chandra, Vice Chairman NDMC,Kuljeet Singh Chahal, Member of the Council, Smt Sarita Tomar, Anil Valmiki and Dinesh Pratpa Singh along with senior officers of Govt. of Delhi and NDMC. Being executed by the NDMC, this project approved by the Delhi Urban Art Commission (DUAC), is designed to be a timeless symbol and a new landmark for the National Capital. The eight sides of the Clock Tower would be 1.2 metre each and will be constructed with reinforced cement concrete and clay bricks. With a project timeline of six months and an estimated cost of ?1.80 crore, the structure is designed to be a striking blend of Hindu, Mughal, and Colonial architecture, thereby reviving the heritage charm of the Capital.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Saxena said, "Construction of the new Clock Tower by NDMC will script a new chapter in the urban redevelopment of the National Capital. This grand Clock Tower at Mandir Marg is positioned at the strategic intersection of Mandir Marg and Shankar Road that serves as the gateway to the NDMC area and hence, would attract a large number of visitors including daily passers-by." Underlining the significance of the Clock Tower, Shri Saxena said that historically Clock Towers were built at the most prominent location in a city that apart from serving as a timepiece for the locals, also became a landmark. “I am hopeful that this upcoming Clock Tower would also become a new landmark in the National Capital”, he said adding the structure would also enrich the visual appeal of Lutyens’ Delhi and adding a distinctive feature to its iconic skyline.
The LG also informed that another Clock Tower is being constructed at the Sadbhavana Park on the Ring Road behind Red Fort. The Clock Tower is being developed by DDA and is likely to be completed by this month's end. Shri Saxena also lauded NDMC for its efforts to beautify Delhi by installing captivating sculptures across major roads and intersections.
On the occasion Delhi Chief Minister, Smt. Rekha Gupta said that - "This clock tower stands as a proud foundation of Delhi’s progress and a timeless witness to the journey of Viksit Bharat. Its distinctive architecture will not only grace the skyline of New Delhi but also symbolize the spirit and identity of our nation. It will also reflect the progress of not only New Delhi but also the whole Delhi under the Viksit Bharat."
Salient Features of Clock Tower:-
The clock tower’s reinforced concrete framework will be engineered to withstand both wind and seismic forces, resting on a robust RCC raft foundation. The façade will feature exposed wire-cut brick cladding with meticulously finished joints, while the pedestal will be adorned with lather-finish black granite, combining elegance with durability through advanced mechanical anchoring techniques.
A stainless steel staircase with anti-skid finishes and safety handrails will facilitate internal maintenance. At its crown, a state-of-the-art, weather-resistant clock—designed for precision, longevity, and illuminated for visibility—will be installed using vibration-resistant technology.
The exterior will be enriched with 150 mm thick custom stone engravings, carved and polished to architectural perfection. Electrical and lighting provisions will ensure both aesthetic nighttime appeal and smooth clock operations.
Built using high-quality, low-maintenance materials and executed by vendors of proven national expertise, this heritage revival initiative promises to stand as a symbolic and enduring landmark in the heart of New Delhi.