Neo-Delhi: Kal | Aaj | Kal — A Century of Future City Planning

Connaught Place (C.P.), the heart of Delhi, has witnessed a dramatic transformation over the past hundred years. Originally envisioned by British architect Edwin Lutyens in 1912 as a hub for the elite, it has evolved into a vibrant, inclusive urban center that now serves all social strata. Through this project, Neo-Delhi, architect Umar Sameer presents a compelling narrative of the past, present, and future of C.P. — envisioning its role as a model for future city planning grounded in sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.

Urban Evolution: From Colonialism to Swaraj

The concept of "Kal | Aaj | Kal" (Yesterday | Today | Tomorrow) is reflected through six critical dimensions: Social, Political, Cultural, Economical, Ecological, and Accessibility. From its colonial past to its present democratic framework and toward a future rooted in Swaraj (self-rule), the design narrates a shift in identity. The future C.P. is visualized as a democratic, self-sustaining public space that embodies the spirit of collective ownership.

Activity Mapping and Stakeholder Integration

The design utilizes detailed activity mapping to identify patterns in the usage of Connaught Place by diverse stakeholders — from hawkers, cobblers, and street artists to tourists, office-goers, and senior citizens. The mapping reveals not only the intense pedestrian and vehicular movement but also the human stories that animate this iconic urban space. By categorizing activities by age, gender, and time of day, the proposal ensures a human-centric planning approach.

Architecture as a Medium of Time

The project's futuristic architecture layers public, commercial, and ecological zones into an elevated, multi-tiered urban structure. A standout feature — the "Halo Walk" — is a levitating skywalk for public introspection and community engagement, surrounded by floating ecological terraces. The new city grid integrates hyperloop transit, vertical farming, and hybrid zones for offices, markets, and residences, all designed to optimize land use and mobility.

Data-Driven Design Interventions

Comprehensive analyses — from land use patterns and light/noise intensities to gender-based occupancy and transport connectivity — inform a new vision of spatial efficiency. The strategy reveals challenges like fragmented public space, traffic congestion, and underused green zones. Future interventions address these through pedestrian-first planning, green roofs, sustainable transport, and enhanced public infrastructure.

Heritage Conservation Meets Smart Urbanism

By conserving Connaught Place’s architectural legacy and intertwining it with high-tech urban systems, the project balances heritage with progress. The new structure literally rises from the existing one, symbolizing continuity. Void zones are mapped to reflect Delhi’s seven historic cities, creating pauses in density that allow for reflection, green growth, and breathable public space.

A Vision of Neo-Delhi 2112

The Neo-Delhi plan proposes an ambitious and sustainable future city planning model, redefining what central business districts can be. With a fusion of elevated green spaces, efficient mobility, heritage conservation, and public participation, the project turns Connaught Place into a hyper-connected, climate-resilient, and socially equitable space.

Project by: Umar Sameer

Shortlisted Entry: Neo Delhi Competition