MP calls for cohesive action to restore Chandni Chowk’s glory

In order to restore Chandni Chowk’s historic and commercial significance, BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal on Monday led an extensive on-ground inspection stretching from Gauri Shankar Mandir near Red Fort to Bara Tooti Chowk in Sadar Bazar.

The visit, accompanied by senior officials from several civic departments and representatives of various trader associations, covered key areas, including Dewan Hall Road, Bhagirath Palace, Nai Sadak, Fatehpuri, Khari Baoli and Qutub Road.

During the walk-through, Khandelwal flagged several pressing concerns such as rampant encroachments, unclean surroundings, damaged infrastructure and lack of coordination among civic bodies.

He expressed concern over sidewalks near Sheeshganj Gurdwara and Fatehpuri Chowk, which had been completely occupied by traders and hawkers who had installed sheds, coolers and even air-conditioners, leaving little to no space for pedestrians. Encroachments at the Qutub Road railway bridge and Bara Tooti Chowk were also brought to attention.

Calling for cohesive action, Khandelwal emphasised that better synergy among civic agencies was essential to reverse the civic decay in what he described as “India’s most iconic commercial hub.”

To mark a symbolic shift in approach and identity, he proposed renaming the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation to the Indraprastha Redevelopment Authority — an attempt to bridge Delhi’s historic roots with a forward-looking vision.

Top officials, including the Deputy Commissioner (City-SP Zone), DCP (North) and representatives from the Delhi Jal Board, PWD, BSES, DUSIB and the redevelopment corporation, were present during the inspection. Khandelwal issued immediate directives for the removal of encroachments, prompt repair of civic infrastructure, and improvement in public services.

The MP also laid out a vision for upgrading the area’s infrastructure, urging daily cleaning of market stretches, regulation of e-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws on the main roads of Chandni Chowk and redevelopment of Bara Tooti Chowk and Sadar Bazar. He announced the upcoming installation of a statue of Shaheed Raja Nahar Singh at HC Sen Road as a tribute to Delhi’s freedom movement legacy.

In an important step towards improving urban aesthetics and safety, officials from the BSES were instructed to remove dangling electrical and telecom wires, including those from private operators like Airtel and Jio, that clutter the skyline.

Khandelwal also shared plans to meet traffic police officials to formulate a comprehensive traffic and transportation plan for the area.

He concluded by announcing a dedicated interaction with trader bodies to address business-related concerns, strengthen civic responsibility and foster a collective effort to maintain cleanliness and order.

“This initiative is not just about beautification,” Khandelwal said. “A functional and clean Chandni Chowk is essential for trade, tourism and the dignity of our shared heritage. I am committed to leading from the front.”