Within Delhi’s Walled City is the historic market of Chandni Chowk founded during the reign of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, who also built the Taj Mahal. After decades of neglect the market is finally being restored by the AAP-led Delhi government.

Pictures by: Shrey Gupta

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal inspected the Chandni Chowk redevelopment project recently. A 1.5 km path from the Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid, is being completely revamped.

The chief minister said the historic glory of Chandni Chowk would be restored and beautified. It will be a car-free area for pedestrians from 9 am to 9 pm. The famed Sis Gunj Gurdwara is situated along this route.

The first phase of the project is now complete. A neat path has been laid with greenery in the middle. All encroachments have been removed making it easy for visitors to walk around. It hasn’t been easy for the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation and the Public Works Department to lay underground power lines, cables, water and gas pipelines in this old part of the city with its tiny lanes overflowing with people, shops, havelis and lots of history.

The stretch from Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid is likely to be completed and open for public use by the first week of November. Built at an overall cost of Rs 90 crore, the revamped market will attract shoppers, tourists and history buffs from across the world.