NEW DELHI: After years of delay, a detailed project report (DPR) has finally been prepared for the redevelopment of the Jama Masjid area, paving the way for major infrastructure and beautification works in one of Old Delhi’s busiest heritage zones, sources said.
The plan includes renovation of Shahi Imam Road, facade improvement of Meena Bazaar along with fire safety measures and water tank facilities in the market, beautification of Kalimullah Dargah, and redevelopment of three key parks, including Janana Park, Urdu Park and Dangal Park.
One of the sources in the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Project (SRDC) said the proposal is expected to be submitted to the chairperson (CM) and will be placed before the board, which is set to meet for the first time in nearly three years. “The DPR prepared focuses on removal of encroachments and the beautification of the Jama Masjid area.
Starting from the road leading to the entrance of Jama Masjid Gate No. 1, followed by Meena Bazaar, which will get a new look. Secondly, we have a restoration plan for the Hazrat Shah Kalimullah Dargah. Earlier, the plan was to remove certain parts of it, but now it will be restored,” said the source. He also shared, “The DPR is currently at an advanced stage.
As soon as we get approval from the chairperson, a board meeting will take place, which hasn’t happened in the past three years. The only roadblock we are likely to see is from the land-owning agencies. We are in touch with them.” When the SRDC had designed the Jama Masjid restoration plan, it included a proposal for redevelopment of the peripheral roads and the precinct within it.
The plan of the precinct covers an area of around 12.7 hectares around the Jama Masjid and includes peripheral streets of about 3 km, starting from Subhash Marg to the back of Jama Masjid and till Subhash Marg at Parade Ground car parking.
The conceptual plan had identified issues such as spatial organisation, commercial activities, circulation, facilities for worshippers, existing infrastructure utilities and civic amenities. As per the source, guidelines were set before preparing the DPR.
These included building typologies and construction materials, improvement of the environment around existing mazars and shrines, wudu facilities, public amenities, landscaping, lighting, signage, facilities for visitors and tourists, and street furniture.
Meanwhile, the design had received certain recommendations, including environmental upgradation of the precinct, provision of pedestrian paths, street upgradation, cycle tracks, public amenities, parking, public spaces and improved circulation patterns.
One of the residents of Old Delhi, Mohammad Tasleem, said, “The Jama Masjid and the surrounding areas are a key part of our heritage, beyond doubt. The precinct is currently in a state of decay and there is an urgent need for renewal. The area needs serious intervention, especially in terms of smooth travel, parking and beautification."