Delhi CM reviews functioning of Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corp

The 38th board meeting of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) was held on Friday under the chairmanship of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Several issues related to the development and heritage conservation of Old Delhi were discussed during the meeting.

The meeting also reviewed the functioning of SRDC during the previous government’s tenure, with the CM stating that alleged financial irregularities would be investigated.

Delhi Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood and senior officials from various departments attended the meeting.

During the meeting, a proposal to rename the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation was discussed. It was decided that a list of three possible names would be prepared in the order of preference before a final decision was taken. The board also reviewed the redevelopment project in Chandni Chowk, covering the stretch from Lal Jain Mandir to Fatehpuri Masjid.

Gupta said the government plans to restructure and revive the institution to accelerate redevelopment work in Old Delhi and the Shahjahanabad area. The CM said the Delhi Government had initiated efforts to restore the historic character of Old Delhi, adding that development works worth around Rs 160 crore were currently underway on 28 roads in the area.

These works include road construction and improvement, beautification of public spaces, strengthening sanitation services, better maintenance of public toilets and large-scale cleanliness drives.

The government is also preparing a phased plan to place electricity wiring underground across the area so that modern infrastructure can be introduced while preserving the historic character of Old Delhi.

Gupta also announced that the historic Town Hall building would be developed as a major heritage monument to enhance the cultural and historical appeal of the area.

She said Old Delhi was the heart of the national capital and the government aimed to preserve its heritage, identity and cultural dignity, while introducing modern facilities. The objective, she added, was to transform the Shahjahanabad area into a vibrant heritage zone with national and global recognition.

The meeting also examined projects executed during the previous government’s tenure.