CBI's swanky new office has gym, cafeteria

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) headquarters, a state-of-the-art structure at CGO Complex in Lodhi Road, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Saturday when he also awarded police medals to some officers.

The new building, constructed at a cost of whopping Rs.186 crore, has come up on over 7,000 sq metres land.

Made of energy efficient toughened glass and steel, the distinctive architectural style makes it look like a modern shopping mall from the outside.

But once you step inside, a spacious lobby welcomes you to open offices fitted with smart modular work-stations in a manner that maximizes natural light in the building.

CBI spokesperson Dharini Mishra said it has been “designed to suit the functional requirements and work-flow pattern of this highly specialized investigation force”. It brings under one roof all Delhi-based branches of the CBI, which is equivalent of the US' Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The building, constructed by the state-owned National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd in 36 months, “aims at promoting functional efficiency and team work” with every branch being allocated a separate floor, said Mishra.

It has modern communication systems, advanced electronic maintenance of records, fitted storage space and computerised access control with provisions for add-on facility for new technology.

Interrogation rooms, lock-ups, dormitories and conference halls are also on various floors.

And the office block is not only for work, work and work only. To encourage staff to take breaks and move away from the mundane work desk, the building has a large cafeteria, which can accommodate 500 people at a time.

The staff can also step into gyms, equipped with modern gymming machines. This is in keeping with the Western idea that going to the gym during a break from work improves concentration, productivity and ability to cope with stress.

A terrace garden is another attraction in the building. Lack of parking space is a common problem in the capital but not for the CBI staff or people visiting the office. A double-level basement parking can accommodate about 500 vehicles.

For journalists there is a well-designed briefing room and media lounge. There is also a gallery showcasing the history and major accomplishments of the agency.

“All this makes the building stand proud in the heart of the national capital,” said Mishra.