India International Convention and Expo Centre: A Grand Addition to Delhi’s Infrastructure. Delhi is set to enhance its status as a global hub for conferences and exhibitions with the upcoming inauguration of Phase 1 of the India International Convention and Expo Centre at Dwarka. This massive project, constructed at a cost of Rs 5400 crore, promises to be a game-changer for the M.I.C.E (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry in India and Asia.
Why Delhi’s Second Exhibition Centre is Special?
Spread over an expansive 221 acres of land, strategically positioned amidst the bustling business district of Gurugram and in close proximity to Delhi International Airport, this convention and expo centre is a colossal undertaking. To put its size into perspective, the total land area surpasses that of the renowned Bharat Mandapam by 98 acres. The first phase of Bharat Mandapam, with a price tag of Rs 2700 crore, is dwarfed by the magnitude of this new project.
The Phase 1 project encompasses a staggering 8.97 lakh square meters of space, with a total built-up area of 1.80 lakh square meters. This built-up area includes exhibition halls, convention centers, and arenas. One of the highlights of this facility is its convention center, which covers an area of 73,195 square meters. In Phase 1, two exhibition halls, with a combined covered area of 1.07 lakh square meters, will be inaugurated. Furthermore, plans for three more exhibition halls are on the horizon, as part of Phase 2.
World-Class Amenities
The India International Convention and Expo Centre is not just about size; it’s also about offering world-class amenities. The convention center can host over 11,000 participants, making it one of the largest covered spaces for events in India. It boasts an auditorium with a seating capacity of 6,000 and a ballroom with a capacity of 2,500. In addition, Phase 1 will include 13 other conference rooms, accommodating between 68 to 822 people, catering to various event sizes and requirements.
Strategic Location
Its strategic location is another key asset. The centre has dedicated access to the Delhi Airport Express Metro Line, part of Phase 1’s development cost. It also has road access from the Dwarka Expressway and connectivity to the upcoming Delhi-Mumbai expressway. It’s just 10 minutes away from Aero City and a mere 20-minute metro ride from the city center, Connaught Place.
Future Expansion
Phase 2 of the project is already in the works, which will further expand the convention center’s built-up area to a massive 4.28 lakh square meters. Five exhibition halls, with a combined covered area of 3.03 lakh square meters, are planned for Phase 2. This phase will also introduce an arena with a capacity of 20,000 and mixed-use developments covering 6.42 lakh square meters, including hotels.
Ample Parking and Management
Parking is a significant consideration for such a facility, and the first phase will offer underground car parking with a capacity of 3,000 vehicles, which will be expanded to accommodate 28,000 vehicles in Phase 2.
The management of the venue is entrusted to Kinexin Convention Management Pvt Ltd., a consortium of Korea International Exhibition Centre (KINTEX) and eSang Networks Company Limited, which will operate and manage the venue for 20 years post Commercial Operations Date (COD).
Future Prospects
The completion of Phase 1 has set the stage for more ambitious developments in Phase 2, and the government anticipates even more competitive bidding for this phase. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has been the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for Phase 1, reflecting the significant engineering and construction expertise required for such a monumental project.
The India International Convention and Expo Centre, with its grandeur and modern amenities, symbolizes India’s growth potential in the M.I.C.E sector and is set to attract major global events well into the future.
Conclusion
The India International Convention and Expo Centre is poised to be a game-changer for Delhi’s business and event landscape. With its massive size, strategic location, and world-class amenities, it is set to become one of Asia’s premier venues for meetings, conferences, incentives, and exhibitions. As it prepares for its grand inauguration, it marks a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development and its ability to host global events on a grand scale.