Fire Breaks Out on Roof of Old Parliament Building; Incident Occurs During Welding Work
A fire broke out on the roof of the old Parliament building at 5:40 PM. The fire started during welding operations. However, the blaze was brought under control within just a few minutes.
The sudden outbreak of fire on the roof of the old Parliament building caused a brief commotion. The incident occurred around 5:40 PM. Welding work was being carried out on the roof as part of repair operations. The fire ignited during this process. It is reported that sparks generated during the welding caused the fire. However, the blaze was brought under control within minutes. The CISF fire team immediately extinguished the fire.
CISF fire team extinguished the fire
The old Parliament building is now known as 'Samvidhan Sadan' (Constitution House). It served as the epicenter of Indian democracy for 96 years. Until the inauguration of the new Parliament building in 2023, it functioned as the headquarters of the Indian Parliament. The Constitution of India was drafted and adopted within this very building. In September 2023, it was officially renamed 'Samvidhan Sadan'.
The building is now slated to be utilized for parliamentary events and as a museum; such is the current plan. It was designed by British architects Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker. Its construction began in 1921 and was completed in 1927.
CISF Responsible for Security of Both New and Old Buildings
The responsibility for the security of the old Parliament building—now known as 'Samvidhan Sadan'—currently rests with the CISF. Changes were implemented in the security protocol following the security breach at the Parliament in 2023. Previously, the security of the complex was entrusted to the 'Parliament Duty Group'—a specialized unit of the CRPF. However, effective May 2024, the CISF has assumed full responsibility for the security of both the old and the new Parliament buildings. Inauguration of the New Parliament Building Held on May 28, 2023.
Summary
The new Parliament building has been constructed adjacent to the old Parliament building. The new Parliament building is a part of New Delhi's Central Vista Project. Prime Minister Modi inaugurated it on May 28, 2023. Keeping future requirements in mind, the seating capacity in the new building has been significantly increased. The Lok Sabha has a seating capacity of 888 members, while the Rajya Sabha accommodates 384 members. The building features six main entrances. The new Parliament building is equipped with numerous modern amenities. This structure is entirely earthquake-resistant and is a 'Platinum-rated' green building.