The restoration and redevelopment of the historic Gole Market building in New Delhi has once again missed its scheduled deadline, with the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) now setting May 2026 as the new target for completion. This marks the third extension since the project’s foundation stone was laid in October 2022.
According to officials, one of the key reasons behind the delay has been construction disruptions caused by pollution-related restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) during the winter months. These environmental controls slowed construction activity at the heritage site.
NDMC stated that around 40% of the civil work had been completed by the end of December. However, recent observations at the site indicate that construction progress remains slow. In parallel, excavation work is underway for a subway that will connect Bhai Veer Singh Marg to the Gole Market complex, providing safer pedestrian access to the museum located within the traffic roundabout. The subway will also include lifts at entry and exit points to ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities.
The conservation of the 1921-built Gole Market structure has been pending since 2006. Following a visit by the Delhi Lieutenant Governor in 2022, the project proposal was revived and approved. Restoration work formally began in October 2023, with the original completion deadline set for October 2025, later revised to March 2026.
Once completed, the heritage building will be transformed into a museum dedicated to women achievers, highlighting their contributions to fields such as art, literature, culture, social service, and India’s freedom struggle. The total project cost, including the subway infrastructure, is estimated at ₹21.7 crore.
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