New Delhi: In a bid to offer requisite facilities, improving visitor experience, and to give longer leisure period, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is likely to have an ‘experiential cafeteria’ at Red Fort.
It has been decided by the ASI to open a cafeteria at a location most approachable to the visitors. It recommended the same in the Comprehensive Conservation Management Plan of the monument. The cafeteria is likely to open in mid-2020 and will be the first cafeteria inside the historic Red Fort.
The cafeteria complex offers a built-in structure and red sandstone paved open courtyard.
It is a major place of tourist interest in the country. Considering the footfall and location of the monument, visitors need to have best quality soft drink, snacks, packed food items, tea, coffee, etc. at reasonable price before or after visiting the monument.
The cafeteria will serve Indians and foreign tourists besides the staff of the office of ASI and the Red Fort including VIPs.
Red Fort, a centrally protected monument located in the national capital, has been inscribed as a World Heritage Site. This monument is visited by 8,500 (approx.) visitors daily, including both Indian and foreign tourists.
The monument, identified as a plastic-free zone, remains open from sunrise to sunset every day except between August 8 and August 15 and January 26 as per the directions of the ministry of defense and ministry of culture.
Every year, approximately over 30 lakh domestic tourists visit the monument, which generates an annual income of Rs 20 crore (approx.) in terms of ticket sales and parking fees.
The Red Fort has almost 45 heritage components such as the Delhi Gate, Lahori Gate, Hira Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Mumtaz Mahal, Rang Mahal, Khas Mahal, Hamam, Shah Burj, Moti Masjid, etc.
