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

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has been appointed Chairperson of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC), taking direct charge of Old Delhi's redevelopment. Her government plans to develop the area into a major tourism hub while prioritizing the conservation of its historic havelis, katras, and lanes. Key infrastructure projects include shifting overhead electricity cables underground and creating a comprehensive traffic management plan with multi-level parking. The move is expected to provide fresh momentum to long-pending redevelopment works coordinated among various civic agencies.

Key Points: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Chairs Old Delhi Redevelopment | SRDC

  • CM appointed SRDC Chairperson
  • Boost tourism in Old Delhi
  • Shift overhead cables underground
  • Conserve heritage havelis & katras
  • Review past projects like Chandni Chowk
2 min read

Delhi CM takes charge of Old Delhi Redevelopment, appointed as SRDC chairperson

CM Rekha Gupta takes charge of Old Delhi redevelopment, aiming to boost tourism, conserve heritage havelis, and improve infrastructure and traffic.

"Shahjahanabad was not merely a locality, but a symbol of Delhi's rich historical and cultural identity. - Rekha Gupta"

New Delhi, February 3

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday took charge of Old Delhi Redevelopment and said that her government will accord top priority to its redevelopment while focusing on conserving its heritage.

She stated that Shahjahanabad was not merely a locality, but a symbol of Delhi's rich historical and cultural identity.

The Chief Minister has been appointed Chairperson of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC), an official said.

Gupta said that the Delhi government aims to develop Old Delhi as a major tourism hub.

The Chief Minister said that overhead electricity cables in the narrow lanes of the Walled City will be shifted underground to enhance safety and improve the area's aesthetics. To address traffic congestion in market areas, a comprehensive traffic management plan will be prepared, along with the development of multi-level parking facilities.

She noted that Old Delhi is a historic residential area where every lane reflects heritage and history. Alongside development, special attention will be given to the conservation of havelis, katras, and kunchas.

Previously proposed SRDC projects--including the redevelopment of Chandni Chowk, development of the Jama Masjid area, beautification of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Marg, and the road stretch from Delhi Gate to Kashmiri Gate--will be reviewed afresh.

The Chief Minister also said that Old Delhi has long suffered from inadequate basic infrastructure. The government will ensure uninterrupted road construction, lane improvements, repair of the dilapidated sewer system, and a clear blueprint for a continuous drinking water supply. Cleanliness and sanitation in the area will also remain key priorities.

The Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation was constituted by the Delhi government on May 1, 2008, as a special purpose vehicle to coordinate development works among various agencies, including the Municipal Corporation, PWD and the Tourism Department. With the Chief Minister assuming the Chairperson role, SRDC's restructuring is expected to provide fresh momentum to the redevelopment of Old Delhi.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
This is wonderful news. Old Delhi is the soul of our city. Conserving the havelis and katras while improving infrastructure is the perfect balance. My family has lived in Ballimaran for generations and we've seen many plans come and go. Hoping this one brings real change.
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Aman W
Traffic and parking are the biggest issues. You can't even walk peacefully in Kinari Bazaar. A multi-level parking facility is desperately needed. But please, don't make it so expensive that the local shopkeepers and residents can't use it.
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Sarah B
As a tourist who loves Delhi, I'm excited to hear this. The history in those lanes is incredible, but the congestion and lack of basic amenities can be overwhelming. Developing it as a tourism hub while preserving its character is a great goal. Can't wait to visit again after the improvements!
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Vikram M
The sewer and water supply problems in the walled city are a health hazard. That should be the absolute first priority, even before tourism plans. Hope the CM's direct involvement means faster coordination between MCD and PWD, which is usually where these projects get stuck.
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Kriti O
I appreciate the focus on heritage, but a word of caution. "Redevelopment" often means displacing the original residents and changing the fabric of the place. The charm of Old Delhi is in its people and their way of life. Please involve the local community in every step.

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