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Chandni Chowk's Shine Fades: Neglect Returns After Cleaning Drive
31 Jan
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.
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.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi asserts it has intensified cleaning operations, with local representatives claiming regular sweeping and waste removal. However, traders and residents report persistent littering, encroachment, and an unusable condition of public toilets, indicating that routine sanitation measures are insufficient for maintaining the heritage area's aesthetic appeal.
Local authorities are now exploring anti-encroachment drives to address persistent littering issues. The councillor acknowledged the need for specialised equipment to clean stonework and bollards, a requirement that may be addressed through procurement if necessary. Residents express hope that efforts being coordinated with the Chief Minister's office will revive the maintenance drive.
