Kerala government properties in New Delhi to get a makeover

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state government-owned properties in New Delhi are set for a major facelift with plans being drawn for state-of-the-art ayurvedic centre, work suites for chief minister and governor and modern convention centers and art galleries.
The three project sites in New Delhi are Kerala House at Jantar Mantar Road, Travancore House at Kasturba Gandhi Marg and Kapurthala Plot on Copernicus Marg. The government has invited request for proposal to select an architect/architect consultant for providing consultancy for comprehensive planning and designing the three projects.

As per the request for proposal for selection of architect or architect consultant, the project for the three sites will be designed as expandable and scalable, sustainable state-of-the-art campus with modern functional, efficient and economical buildings conforming to best international standards.The buildings shall take into account local Indian architectural features and be sensitive to the cultural context.
“The proposal is to redevelop the properties as a cultural hub with state-of-the-art facilities. The estimate will be finalized after we receive the plan. This plan is certainly not driven by revenue generation prospects, if in the process it can meet operational expenses, it will be an added bonus,” said Manoj Joshi, additional chief secretary (finance).
Kerala House, located in the plot measuring 10,000 sqm, has a main block, an additional block, quarters for staff and Cochin palace. The proposal is to develop a guest house with around 150 guest rooms, reception to accommodate guests, and two dormitories with common toilets and other facilities. A gymnasium with latest facilities will also be set up. A conference room and office work rooms and a facility management area are the other plans.
Travancore House, which has a plot area of 33,000 sqm, now includes Travancore Palace (heritage building) and a few staff quarters of temporary nature. The idea is to convert the Travancore Palace plot as a cultural centre with a convention centre, an art gallery and museum and a library. An open air theatre has also been proposed for this property. A dining area and cafe with a blend of Kerala themes will be the added attractions. Work suites have also been proposed for governor of the state, chief minister, resident commissioner and additional resident commissioner.
Kapurthala Plot with an area of 16,000 sqm contains 54 old military barracks which have now been converted into staff quarters. The government envisages an ayurveda centre with about 100 beds and four examination rooms, with two areas dedicated for physiotherapy. Executive treatment rooms and six treatment rooms are also being planned for this area along with 115 deluxe rooms.