Why did the cleaning agency stop working in Chandni Chowk?

The specialised cleaning agency stopped working in Chandni Chowk due to alleged lack of funds and pending financial sanctions.

What is the current state of the Chandni Chowk heritage stretch?

The heritage stretch has reverted to a state of neglect, with accumulating dust, littering, and encroachment observed by traders and residents.

What are the authorities doing about the Chandni Chowk cleanliness issues?

Authorities are facing funding and procedural delays but claim to have intensified cleaning efforts and are exploring anti-encroachment drives and specialised equipment procurement.

Home / Environment / Chandni Chowk's Shine Fades: Neglect Returns After Cleaning Drive

Chandni Chowk's Shine Fades: Neglect Returns After Cleaning Drive

31 Jan

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Summary

Specialised cleaning agency stopped work due to alleged lack of funds.
Area has reverted to its pre-maintenance state of neglect.
Local authorities cite funding and procedural delays for stalled work.

Chandni Chowk's Shine Fades: Neglect Returns After Cleaning Drive

The historic 1.3km Chandni Chowk stretch near Red Fort has reverted to a state of neglect, barely a month after a comprehensive cleaning initiative. A specialised agency, hired in mid-November for deep cleaning and regular waste collection, ceased its work on December 15. This halt is attributed to alleged funding shortfalls, frustrating local traders and residents who observed the area accumulating dust again.

Public Works Department officials stated the agency's engagement was contingent on funding assurances from the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC). However, a month later, formal financial sanction was still pending, compelling the PWD to discontinue the arrangement. An SRDC official indicated that funding processes are underway, with delays attributed to the pending appointment of the SRDC chairman.