Delhi Eye: Yet to open, but work on to end slumber

New Delhi: The Delhi Eye, once a project sleeping on the drawing board, is a step closer to seeing the light of day as DDA has moved forward with its implementation.Inspired by London’s iconic observation wheel, called the London Eye, the Delhi Eye will be in Mayur Vihar.

DDA has started the process of empanelling an expert agency to develop, operate and maintain the attraction on a 55-year licensing model.The authority wants to install a 35-metre-high cantilevered observation wheel that will offer panoramic views of the city.The recreational facility will provide a vantage point to tourists. “Several other features can also be incorporated into the project to make the place more people-friendly,” an official said.The proposed site is in the District Centre of Mayur Vihar, and the development control norms will be in accordance with MPD-2021 and the Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2016. “To accelerate work on the project and decide other features to be incorporated at the site, a stakeholder consultation will be held on July 9,” officials said.DDA officials said the decision to develop the land parcel for recreational and commercial use was taken after receiving an overwhelming response from industry players interested in developing such facilities under the licensing-fee model.

“Since the proposed developments are already permissible under the Master Plan of Delhi (MPD)-2021, no change in land use will be required. Once the contracts are awarded, the licensees will be able to expedite development,” officials said.DDA plans to adopt the same long-term public-private partnership (PPP) model for developing a five-acre amusement park in Rohini’s Sector 29. A 25.50-hectare land parcel has been identified for the purpose.“The creation of such recreational spaces will provide residents an opportunity to spend quality time with their families and enjoy a range of leisure activities,” officials said.Officials said the authority is increasingly relying on the 55-year lease model to execute large urban infrastructure and tourism projects. Besides the Delhi Eye and the Rohini amusement park, DDA is also working on projects to develop a world-class hotel and modern sports and recreational facilities through similar PPPs.“This move marks a shift in the authority’s development strategy, with greater emphasis on leveraging private sector expertise to create internationally benchmarked recreational and hospitality infrastructure,” an official said.