MCD Requests Rs 145 Crore from CMDF for Major Market Revamp Across Delhi
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has formally submitted a request for Rs 145 crore from the Chief Minister Development Fund (CMDF) to undertake comprehensive redevelopment projects across eight prominent markets located in various zones of the national capital. This significant financial proposal aims to revitalize key commercial hubs that experience heavy daily foot traffic but currently suffer from infrastructural deficiencies.
Detailed Allocation for Market Upgrades Across Zones
The proposed redevelopment plan outlines specific financial allocations for each market, distributed across Delhi's administrative zones:
- South Zone: South Moti Bagh (Rs 3.9 crore) and Vasant Kunj B-7 Market (Rs 3.2 crore).
- West Zone: District Centre (Rs 15.8 crore) and A-3 Block Market at Janakpuri (Rs 3.2 crore).
- Keshavpuram Zone: Netaji Subhash Place at Pitampura (Rs 52.8 crore) and Deep Market at Ashok Vihar (Rs 12.2 crore).
- Rohini Zone: Mangalam Palace Market (Rs 37.8 crore).
- Shahdara South Zone: Karkardooma Market (Rs 17.3 crore).
The largest single allocation is designated for Netaji Subhash Place in Pitampura, recognized as one of north Delhi's busiest commercial and recreational centers, underscoring its priority status within the urban renewal initiative.
Scope of Redevelopment Works
The funds are being sought to finance a wide array of critical civic improvement works designed to enhance functionality, safety, and aesthetics. The planned projects include:
- Re-carpeting of internal roads and thoroughfares to ensure smoother vehicular and pedestrian movement.
- Substantial improvement of footpaths to provide safer walking areas for shoppers and visitors.
- Upgradation and reorganization of parking areas to alleviate congestion and improve space utilization.
- Development of green belts and dedicated walking plazas to introduce recreational spaces within market complexes.
- Comprehensive upgradation of essential civic utilities, including water supply, drainage, and waste management systems.
- Construction of boundary walls for enhanced security and demarcation of market premises.
- Installation of modern, energy-efficient lighting systems to improve visibility and safety during evening hours.
Background and Official Statements
According to municipal officials, this proposal was presented directly to the Chief Minister during a recent high-level meeting. This move comes after earlier attempts to secure financial assistance under the Central Government's National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) failed to materialize, necessitating an alternative funding route.
"We have now approached the CMDF to systematically revive and upgrade prominent markets that witness heavy footfall and require urgent infrastructural revamp," a senior MCD official stated. "For Netaji Subhash Place, our plans are particularly focused on improving common areas, significantly enhancing greenery through landscaped zones, and properly leveling parking spaces to prevent waterlogging and chaos."
The official further noted that in Vasant Kunj's B-7 market, certain redevelopment activities, including road construction, are already in progress. However, MCD has requested additional funds specifically to complete essential repairs in front of shop facades and finalize improvements to common areas that remain unfinished.
This ambitious redevelopment initiative represents a strategic effort by the municipal body to address long-standing urban infrastructure challenges, boost local commerce, and improve the overall experience for Delhi's residents and visitors frequenting these vital market spaces.
