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Delhi CM Rekha Gupta to Lead Old Delhi Revamp, Focus on Heritage & Tourism

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has been appointed chairperson of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation, signaling a renewed push to transform Old Delhi. Her government's priority is a comprehensive redevelopment that balances modernization with the conservation of the area's rich historical and cultural legacy. Key initiatives include removing overhead wires, improving traffic, creating parking, and upgrading basic civic amenities like water and sewage. The goal is to develop the Walled City into a major, attractive tourism destination while safeguarding its unique heritage.

Key Points: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Heads Old Delhi Redevelopment Panel

  • Underground electrical wires for safety
  • Traffic management plan for markets
  • Multi-level parking facilities
  • Conservation of historic havelis and lanes
  • Upgrading basic civic amenities and sanitation
3 min read

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta takes over as head of Old Delhi revamp panel

CM Rekha Gupta prioritizes Old Delhi's redevelopment, heritage conservation, and tourism boost as head of Shahjahanabad panel.

"Shahjahanabad is not merely a locality but a living symbol of Delhi's rich history and cultural legacy. - CM Rekha Gupta"

New Delhi, Feb 3

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Tuesday that comprehensive redevelopment of Old Delhi, along with the conservation of its rich heritage, will be taken up on a priority.

She announced this soon after being appointed the chairperson of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) by Lok Niwas.

The Chief Minister said that her government will accord the highest priority to the comprehensive redevelopment of Old Delhi into an attractive tourism hub.

After assuming charge, Chief Minister Gupta stated that reviving the historical and cultural glory of Old Delhi, the Walled City, is a key commitment of her government.

"Shahjahanabad is not merely a locality but a living symbol of Delhi's rich history and cultural legacy, she said, identifying the removal of overhead electrical wires in the narrow lanes of Old Delhi as a top priority.

She said the overhanging wires will be taken underground to enhance safety and improve the visual appeal of the area.

To address traffic congestion in busy markets, a comprehensive traffic management plan will be prepared, said CM Gupta.

The government will also work towards the creation of multi-level parking facilities, she said.

The Chief Minister noted that Old Delhi is a historic residential area where every lane reflects centuries of heritage.

The government aims to ensure balanced development while safeguarding this legacy, and the conservation of historic havelis, katras, and koochas will also be upgraded.

She informed that the SRDC had earlier prepared several development schemes, including the redevelopment of Chandni Chowk, the Jama Masjid area, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Marg, and the beautification of the road stretch from Delhi Gate to Kashmere Gate. All these projects will be reviewed afresh to develop Old Delhi as a major tourism destination.

The Chief Minister also said that Old Delhi has remained deprived of the desired level of development and basic civic amenities in recent years.

The government will ensure uninterrupted road construction, repair of lanes, improvement of the dilapidated sewerage system, and a clear blueprint for the uninterrupted supply of drinking water, said CM Gupta.

Maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in Old Delhi is also among the government's key priorities, she added.

The Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) was constituted on May 1, 2008, by the Delhi government as a Special Purpose Vehicle to facilitate coordination among various agencies, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the Public Works Department and the Tourism Department, to expedite development works.

The corporation also plays a significant role in the conservation of historic buildings, lanes and heritage assets.

The SRDC's jurisdiction primarily covers the area within the walled city of Old Delhi. Over the past few years, the corporation had been relatively inactive due to various reasons; however, with its reorganisation under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister, Old Delhi's development is expected to gain renewed pace and direction, said an official statement.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is wonderful news. Chandni Chowk and the surrounding areas are the soul of Delhi. Conservation of havelis and katras is crucial. But I hope the 'redevelopment' doesn't mean replacing old charm with generic concrete. The heritage must be preserved authentically.
R
Rohit P
Multi-level parking and traffic management? God bless if they can pull this off! Going to Paranthe Wali Gali or Kinari Bazaar is a nightmare because of congestion. Action on the ground is what matters, not just announcements. The SRDC has been inactive for years.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves exploring historical cities, I'm excited. Old Delhi has incredible potential as a tourism hub. Improving basic amenities like water and sanitation is fundamental though. Tourists and residents both deserve a clean, functional environment.
V
Vikram M
Respectfully, I'll believe it when I see it. Every few years a new committee is formed with big promises for Shahjahanabad. The sewerage system is decades old and collapses every other year. Hope CM Gupta's direct involvement means faster, tangible results this time.
M
Meera T
My family has lived in Old Delhi for generations. The balance between development and conservation is key. Please involve the local residents and shopkeepers in the planning. We understand the needs and challenges of these galis better than anyone. 🙏

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