NEW DELHI: Chandni Chowk market, nestled near the iconic Red Fort, Jama Masjid monument, and Old Delhi railway station, boasts a daily footfall exceeding one lakh, making it one of Old Delhi’s oldest and busiest markets.
Renowned for its diverse offerings, from traditional clothing stores to a variety of delicacies, Chandni Chowk caters to a wide range of needs.
Several years ago, the market underwent redevelopment with a primary focus on alleviating congestion and enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Consequently, this effort has resulted in an upsurge in the average number of daily visitors.
Despite these positive changes, the market contends with several issues, including illegal parking and a lack of civic amenities. Deepak Kumar, the general secretary of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, highlighted the challenge of escalating traffic congestion in the market area due to an exponential rise in the number of cycle rickshaws.
While the market is authorized for 350-400 legal cycle rickshaws, the actual number currently surpasses 3,000, exacerbating the congestion on the streets. Another pressing concern is the influx of vagabonds and a surge in illegal street hawkers after the market’s redevelopment.
Ajay Kumar Mittal, a cloth shop owner in the market, expressed dismay over the rising number of pavement dwellers and unauthorized vendors and hawkers. Anoop Yadav, the secretary of Nav Prayas Chandni Chowk Sanghatan (RWA), shed light on the prevalent issue of illegal parking on HC Sen Marg, where individuals extort money from those parking their cars on the road.
Despite numerous complaints, there has been a lack of decisive action from the concerned authorities.“Some people extort Rs 200 from the people who illegally park their cars on the road and despite several complaints to the concerned authorities; no proper action has been taken,” Yadav said.
Addressing the matter of unauthorised parking, a senior Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) official stated that the issue in front of Omaxe Mall has been reported to the local police and City Zone SP. A special drive has been initiated by the zonal authorities to clear unauthorised parking, with vehicles being lifted to deter further infractions.
Authorities should ensure projects are executed, maintained: President of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal
In an interaction with Zaid Nayeemi, the president of Chandni Chowk Sarv Vyapar Mandal, Sanjay Bhargava outlined the problems and the issues faced by the Chandni Chowk market. Excerpts:
What are the issues the market is facing?
Law and order issues in the market, illegal parking, constructions and encroachments, traffic in pedestrian lanes between 9 AM to 9 PM, and rampant illegal loading and unloading throughout the day; among others are the prominent issues of the market. Crimes like pickpocketing, snatching, and eve-teasing are also there.
Cleanliness and lack of ladies’ toilets in the market is a crucial issue. How do you see this?
The number of toilets for women needs to be increased in the market. The companies which are looking after the cleanliness of the market are unable to do it properly due to scarcity of water. Also, they are on an extended contract, so they are unsure if they will be here tomorrow. So, they are not focusing on cleanliness.
How grave is the issue of illegal parking in the area?
Illegal parking of vehicles you will find at Netaji Subhash Marg, HC Sen Road and near the Town Hall area. There must be around 800-1000 cars illegally parked on the roads.
What are the issues that need immediate solutions?
The beautification works in the market need maintenance, boom barriers should be made operative and illegal street hawkers and vagabonds should be removed.
Any appeal to the higher authorities?
Authorities should do their job in the market as per the plans. Now, MCD and PWD are also under the Delhi government, so they should ensure that projects are executed and maintained.