New Delhi | March 13, 2026 — The 38th board meeting of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) was held under the chairpersonship of Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to review development plans for Old Delhi and discuss institutional restructuring.
During the meeting, several issues related to heritage conservation, infrastructure improvement, and redevelopment of the Shahjahanabad area were discussed. The functioning of SRDC during the previous government’s tenure was also reviewed, particularly regarding financial irregularities.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the government is committed to preserving the historical character of Old Delhi while introducing modern infrastructure and public amenities.
The meeting was attended by Delhi Cabinet Minister Ashish Sood and senior officials from concerned departments.
Proposal to Rename Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation
One of the key issues discussed during the meeting was the proposal to rename the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation.
Officials decided that three possible names would be prepared in order of preference, after which the final name will be selected.
The meeting also reviewed the Chandni Chowk redevelopment project stretching from Lal Jain Mandir to Fatehpuri Masjid. The Chief Minister said that the time has come for restructuring and revitalizing the institution so that redevelopment efforts can move forward effectively.
She emphasized that the board will play a central role in accelerating the redevelopment of Old Delhi and the Shahjahanabad area.
Efforts to Restore the Historic Character of Old Delhi
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the Delhi government has begun serious efforts to restore the historic glory of Old Delhi.
According to officials, development projects worth approximately ₹160 crore are currently underway on 28 roads in the area.
The projects include road construction and improvements, beautification of public spaces, strengthening sanitation systems, better maintenance of public toilets, and large-scale cleanliness initiatives.
In addition, a phased plan is being prepared to place electricity wiring underground throughout the area so that modern infrastructure can be introduced without disturbing the historic urban landscape.
Town Hall to Be Developed as a Heritage Landmark
The Chief Minister also announced plans to develop the Town Hall as a major heritage landmark in the Old Delhi area.
She said Old Delhi represents the historic heart of the national capital and preserving its cultural and architectural heritage is a priority for the government.
The long-term objective is to transform Shahjahanabad into a vibrant heritage zone that highlights the city’s historical identity while also providing improved civic infrastructure.
Investigation into Previous Government’s Tenure
The meeting also examined the functioning of SRDC during the previous government’s tenure.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta pointed out that a project that began in 2018 with an estimated cost of around ₹65 crore eventually increased to nearly ₹148 crore.
She said available records indicate serious irregularities and possible corruption in the implementation of development projects.
According to the Chief Minister, the documents also point to the role of the then board leadership and officials in advancing projects without proper procedural compliance. She stated that these irregularities will be thoroughly investigated.
Comprehensive Development Strategy for Old Delhi
Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood said that the review revealed several concerning issues regarding previous planning efforts.
He said the earlier administration launched projects without adequate planning, leading to inefficient use of public resources.
Sood added that Old Delhi, historically known as the “Walled City,” did not receive the level of development and conservation attention it deserved in the past.
He said the government is now preparing a comprehensive development strategy that considers the area’s historical heritage, environment, geography, and demographic characteristics.
