NEW DELHI: Four years after its grand relaunch, the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Project—meant to restore the historic charm of Old Delhi—remains mired in neglect and administrative paralysis. The redeveloped stretch, once showcased as a model for heritage renewal, is now grappling with basic maintenance issues, prompting the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) to seek an urgent estimate from the Public Works Department on the funds required for essential upkeep.
The pathway laid in 2021, stretching from Jain Mandir to Fatehpuri Masjid, and the improved infrastructure in Chandni Chowk have apparently turned into informal shelters for a growing number of homeless individuals, beggars, and vagabonds. Their constant presence—sleeping, squatting, eating, and engaging in unhygienic practices—has transformed the redeveloped stretch into a site of contention.
Despite multiple inspections and orders, the area continues to reflect a “sight of negligence.” The redeveloped Chandni Chowk market was inaugurated in September 2021 by then Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
Meanwhile, the ambitious second phase of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Project, aimed at revitalising the historic heart of Old Delhi, has come to a standstill. Despite its cultural and urban significance, the project has been languishing in limbo due to administrative inertia.
“We are currently focused on maintaining what has already been developed. The PWD has been asked to prepare an estimate for maintenance funds as the condition of the redeveloped stretch is deteriorating fast,” said Sunil, Deputy General Manager, SRDC.
The situation has been further compounded by an institutional vacuum at SRDC. The corporation has been functioning without a chairperson since July 2025, while several key members have been transferred. Senior officials admitted that in the absence of a board, no policy decisions or project reviews can be undertaken.
Sunil added, “As soon as a new chairperson is appointed, the board can be reconstituted and meetings can resume. Without that, we cannot move ahead with Phase III of the redevelopment.”
Conceived to revive the Mughal-era walled city, the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Project was envisioned as a multi-phase initiative to decongest narrow lanes, improve pedestrian mobility, and preserve heritage structures.
