Delhi HC Ensures Continuity of Chandni Chowk Redevelopment and Beautification

The Delhi High Court has directed the city government to ensure the continuity and maintenance of the re-development and beautification work undertaken at Chandni Chowk.

A bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Tushar Rao Gadela emphasized that the market’s re-development benefited the traders’ association, highlighting their social responsibility towards it.

The court’s observation came while closing proceedings on a self-registered public interest litigation (PIL) concerning Chandni Chowk’s re-development. Acknowledging the steps taken, such as installing boom-barriers and CCTV cameras, the court found no reason to persist with the PIL. However, it asked the state government to ensure the ongoing maintenance of the re-development work.

The bench said that the traders were expected to collaborate with authorities, adding that they devise a formula for managing boom barriers in consultation with Delhi Police. Stressing the traders’ social responsibility, the court expected their assistance in the ongoing development.

The court recognized police actions against unauthorized hawkers and the installation of cameras along the main Chandni Chowk stretch. It noted the collection of over Rs 19 lakh in fines for “no entry violation” last year. The court also acknowledged efforts to facilitate pedestrian movement, guide subway usage, and restrict motor vehicle entries at Red Fort Chowk.

The government lawyer affirmed the collective responsibility of the government, MCD, and other authorities to preserve Chandni Chowk’s re-development and beautification.