The country’s premier investigating agency, CBI, will move into a new home on Saturday.

Prime minister Manmohan Singh will inaugurate its new headquarters building at 5B CGO Complex in Lodi Road. Several ministers and dignitaries will attend the event. The PM will also award police medals to CBI officers at the function.

The new CBI headquarters is housed in an imposing 11-storey building made of energy-efficient toughened glass and steel, and brings together all its Delhi-based branches under one roof. This building, constructed by the NBCC, has a distinctive architectural style and is designed to suit the functional requirements and work-flow pattern of this highly specialized investigation force.

It aims at promoting functional efficiency and team work, with every branch being allocated a separate floor and having ‘open offices’ fitted with smart modular work-stations in a manner which maximises natural light in the building. Modern communication systems, advanced systems for maintaining records, fitted storage space and computerized access control are available, along with provision of add-on facility for new technology. Interrogation rooms, lock-ups, dormitories and conference Halls are also provided at various floors.

The new headquarters offers to its staff a large cafeteria which can accommodate 500 persons, separate gyms for men and women, a terrace garden and a double level basement parking for about 470 vehicles. An advanced fire-fighting system, as well as power back-up is provided. There is a well designed press briefing room and media lounge. A gallery showcasing the history and achievements of the agency is also part of the building.

Built on over 7000 sq m at a cost of Rs 186 crore, the building came up in 36 months.