The Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) has approved the proposal for a memorial for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal, while laying down a series of conditions to ensure that the project remains in harmony with the established architectural and landscape character of the Rajghat precinct.
The approval was recorded in the commission’s August 25 meeting minutes. The proposal, submitted by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), was examined by DUAC in consultation with the project architect, following which clarifications were provided on issues raised by the commission.
Memorial to conform with existing Rajghat character
A key condition of the approval concerns the relationship of the proposed memorial with the existing samadhis at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal. DUAC noted that permission granted by the Land and Development Office (L&DO) requires the surroundings, natural setting and existing memorials to remain in broad conformity and harmony.
Accordingly, the commission directed that the memorial’s architectural treatment, landscape design, materials, colour palette, paving and peripheral elements should be appropriately coordinated with the established visual and architectural character of the existing samadhis.
DUAC observed that the Rajghat area has an established architectural and landscape vocabulary marked by restrained memorial design and an open landscaped setting. While the new memorial can retain its individual identity, it should remain visually harmonious with the larger precinct.
White marble or granite under consideration
The commission has also sought careful consideration of the proposed use of white marble or white granite. DUAC directed that the material and colour palette be assessed against the existing samadhis to ensure visual continuity across the memorial precinct.
Existing tree to be protected
Landscape planning forms an important part of the approval. Lawns, plantations, flower beds, paved areas and peripheral landscaping will have to be coordinated with the existing landscape.
DUAC has specifically directed that an existing tree within the proposed memorial site be protected and sensitively incorporated into the design without adversely affecting its health, root system or future growth.
The commission has also sought a coordinated landscape plan detailing existing and proposed trees, plantation species, paving, levels and pathways.
Pathways, signage and visitor facilities
DUAC has prescribed coordinated designs for boundary treatment, railings, pathways, signage, plaques and other peripheral site elements. Their materials, proportions and detailing will have to reflect the overall character of Rashtriya Smriti Sthal.
The proposal also includes a designated area where visitors can remove their footwear. DUAC has directed that seating benches be provided on both sides of the pathway leading to the memorial, along with arrangements to protect footwear from rain.
The commission has further required all architectural and landscape drawings and 3D views to be coordinated, particularly with regard to materials, colours, levels, paving and landscaping.
Approval limited to design and aesthetic considerations
DUAC clarified that its approval is limited to architectural, urban design and aesthetic considerations. The project authorities will remain responsible for complying with the conditions imposed by the L&DO as well as all other applicable statutory requirements.
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