NITI Aayog refuted reports suggesting a two-year pause on major construction and demolition activities nationwide due to the West Asia crisis and economic strains. The government think tank clarified on social media that it had not proposed any such ban. Addressing a media report, NITI Aayog stated that no recommendation for a construction halt had been put forth.
The policy body emphasized that reconstruction plans for crucial government office complexes are progressing under the respective ministries, with no deferment suggestions from NITI Aayog. It reiterated that the reconstruction of office buildings is actively pursued by the ministries, dismissing any notions of postponement by the think tank.
Following speculations, a report alleged that NITI Aayog had advised the government to suspend major construction projects for two years due to soaring costs, imports, and supply chain disruptions linked to the West Asia tensions. The report hinted at potential delays in projects involving the demolition and reconstruction of key Central government office buildings like Nirman Bhavan, Udyog Bhavan, and Shastri Bhavan.
Amid concerns over rising expenses and energy security post the Iran conflict, the recommendation reportedly aimed to address escalating raw material costs and fuel-intensive construction activities. The situation attracted attention after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to curb fuel usage, limit foreign trips, and reduce unnecessary gold purchases amidst global energy price fluctuations due to the West Asia crisis. Reports also suggested a halt in demolition work at Nirman Bhavan, with potential delays in similar activities at Udyog Bhavan and Shastri Bhavan.
