We have always loved the bustling lanes of Old Delhi with its oldest and the most loved bazaars. With designer lehengas and arguably the best street food in India, Chandni Chowk of Old Delhi tops the list when it comes to heritage shopping experiences in India. However, the over-crowded streets and traffic jams have always been a hindrance, especially now during an ongoing pandemic. Well, there is some good news for shopaholics as the by lanes of Chandni Chowk are getting an all new avatar!
Yes, the historic market of Old Dehli has been inaugurated after a massive makeover on 17th April by CM Arvind Kejriwal as per media reports. "After the beautification of Chandni Chowk, tourism would get a major boost, and people coming to Delhi would be attracted to pay a visit to Chandni Chowk," said the CM, Arvind Kejriwal.
As stated by the media, the idea of the project first came up in 2004. Under redevelopment from December 1, 2018, the 1.3 km stretch was targeted to be completed by November 2020, but got delayed due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
The past
Chandni Chowk has been a bustling market place and the epicentre of Shahjahanabad, Delhi's old name. It is said that the clear water in a canal running through the middle of Chandni Chowk reflected the moonlight, which gave the market its name. From then till now, the stretch of 1.3 k from Red fort to Fatehpuri mosque has undergone countless changes to accommodate more shops people.
The present
Completed at an estimated cost of Rs 99 crore, the beautification project has left no stone unturned to enhance the beauty of the historical site. The project envisaged revamping the 1.3 km stretch between Red Fort and Fatehpuri mosque flanked by the Chandni Chowk market on both sides by making it a pedestrian-only zone, provide broad walkways, water ATMs, toilet complexes, and street furniture mimicking the Mughal-era architecture. The administration did a host of things to make Chandni Chowk look "green and beautiful" and "a sight to behold".
What's in it for travellers?
The redevelopment of the program is done kept in mind the heritage culture. It intends to decongest the marketplace and facilitate free pedestrian movement. It will also enhance the greenery around the places while showcasing its rich culture. The market is turned into a car free zone. Non motorised vehicle will be allowed during the day, motorised vehicle will be allowed from 9 pm to 9 am. It will also have seating space for visitors. Most of the work is done in red sandstone keeping in mind the Mughal-era architectural style. All over head wires and sewer lines have been redesigned.
Source : WorldArchitecture.Org
Are you excited to visit the redesigned Chandni Chowk once the pandemic is over? Let us know in the comments below!
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