MP from Chandni Chowk, Shri Praveen Khandelwal, has requested the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Shri V.K. Saxena, to assign the responsibility of Old Delhi’s development and upkeep to the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC), considering the deteriorating condition of the area and the multiple local governing bodies.
In a letter to the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Khandelwal emphasized that Shahjahanabad, commonly known as Old Delhi, is a significant part of our country’s historical and cultural heritage. This area houses numerous monuments and architectural marvels from the Mughal era. Additionally, it serves as the largest commercial hub in the country, where wholesale trade of over 150 commodities takes place. However, due to the lack of proper development and maintenance in recent years, the historical grandeur and significance of the area have been adversely affected.
Shri Khandelwal pointed out that the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) was specifically formed for the development, beautification, and preservation of Old Delhi. The corporation’s goal is not only to conserve the historical heritage of the area but also to modernize its infrastructure according to present-day requirements.
He further suggested that the overall development, beautification, and maintenance of Old Delhi should be entrusted to SRDC. He proposed that SRDC be granted full authority for the following tasks:
1. *Development and Reconstruction*: Preservation of Old Delhi’s historical sites and reconstruction with modern amenities.
2. *Cleaning and Maintenance*: Regular cleaning, waste management, and upkeep of infrastructure in the area.
3. *Traffic and Crowd Control*: Implementation of strategies for traffic management and crowd control in the narrow streets and lanes of Old Delhi.
4. *Promotion of Tourism*: Developing the necessary infrastructure and amenities to boost tourism in the area, thereby increasing the number of domestic and international tourists.
5. *Support for Local Businesses*: Providing support to local businesses and traders of Old Delhi, strengthening both the local economy and Delhi’s overall economic landscape.
Shri Khandelwal emphasized that this will not only help preserve the historical importance of Old Delhi but also improve the quality of life for local residents and traders. He further requested that SRDC be provided with the necessary budget and authority to effectively carry out its objectives, ensuring better coordination among various governmental bodies.