Market that predates New Delhi set to be a museum

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) on Wednesday approved a years-old plan to turn the British-era Gole Market into a museum and redevelop its surrounding areas, with the project to be completed within a year at a cost of ₹21.6 crore.

- Jasjeev Gandhiok

The distinctive octagonal building was built in 1921 by Edward Lutyens as a subsidiary market to serve the needs of the residential population, primarily centred around grain, milk, vegetables and general markets. The national capital in New Delhi, also designed by Lutyens, was inaugurated in 1931.

A theme for the museum is yet to be finalised, NDMC vice chairman Satish Upadhyay said, adding that it will be selected in two months.

Simultaneously, the agency will also plan and carry out the revamp of adjacent areas, including building a pedestrian subway and a parking lot in the area, besides giving a facelift to the local market, Upadhyay said.

The decisions were taken at a council meeting on Wednesday.