Chandni Chowk Revamp: A Struggle Against Squatters Persists
A recent meeting spearheaded by Municipal Corporation of Delhi commissioner Ashwani Kumar aimed to address the ongoing issue of encroachment on the newly redeveloped main road at Chandni Chowk. The meeting, a result of a committee established on the recommendation of the Delhi High Court in February, took place on April 3 with high-ranking officials from various agencies in attendance.
During the meeting, a crucial decision was made to ensure accountability for the persistent presence of vagrants and drug addicts along the stretch, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to deter such activities. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi Police were tasked with maintaining vigilance and taking decisive action to remove illegal vendors and hawkers from public spaces, with public servants facing potential consequences for any lapses in enforcement.
Despite these directives, local residents have reported little change in the situation, with beggars and squatters still occupying the central verge of the road. The Chandni Chowk Vyapaar Mandal, representing local traders, expressed dismay over the deteriorating conditions along the 1.4km stretch from Subhash Marg to Fatehpuri Masjid, despite the committee’s recommendations.
Sanjay Bhargava, a member of the Vyapaar Mandal, highlighted the neglect of maintenance in the area, which serves not only as a bustling commercial hub but also as a historic landmark drawing countless visitors. He lamented the lack of deep cleaning that has caused the stone tiles and bollards to deteriorate, making navigation difficult amidst overflowing garbage bins, damaged infrastructure, and chaotic rickshaw movement.
In response to the growing concerns, the committee proposed a ban on food distribution to beggars in an effort to prevent their congregation on the road. It also stressed the importance of consistent sanitation measures, including door-to-door waste collection, frequent market cleanings, and penalties for littering violators in line with National Green Tribunal (NGT) regulations.
While the Public Works Department (PWD) assured prompt repairs and replacements of damaged installations, issues such as overflowing waste bins and rickshaw congestion persisted. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) claimed to conduct regular cleaning operations, yet the visual evidence contradicted these assertions with litter strewn across pedestrian spaces.
To address the ongoing chaos, the Delhi government’s transport department was tasked with devising a comprehensive traffic plan for the entire Chandni Chowk area, covering transport routes and modes. The committee recognized the challenges of restricting access through gates and bollards due to the area’s mixed residential and commercial nature, highlighting the need for a more nuanced approach to traffic management.
The revitalization of the Chandni Chowk road in September 2021, which included the installation of red sandstone and granite pavings, benches, greenery, and signage at a substantial cost, reflected a significant investment in the area’s infrastructure. However, the persistent issues of encroachment and sanitation have overshadowed these efforts, underscoring the need for sustained action and accountability to preserve this iconic locale.
As the community grapples with the challenges of maintaining order and cleanliness in the face of mounting obstacles, the resilience and determination of local stakeholders will be crucial in reclaiming the vibrancy and heritage of Chandni Chowk. The road to revitalization may be paved with obstacles, but with concerted efforts and collective responsibility, the vision of a thriving, historic destination can be realized.
