Delhi to Redevelop Netaji Subhash Marg as a Modern Heritage Transit Corridor: CM Rekha Gupta

The Delhi government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has announced plans to transform Netaji Subhash Marg into a modern heritage transit corridor, combining improved transport facilities with the preservation of the capital's historical identity. The proposed redevelopment project, being spearheaded by the Indraprastha Heritage Redevelopment Corporation (IVPN), will cover approximately 3.3 kilometres between Delhi Gate and Kashmiri Gate. The initiative aims to improve road infrastructure, pedestrian safety, public amenities and the overall appearance of one of Old Delhi's important thoroughfares.

According to an official press release, the project will focus on making the corridor more organised, accessible and visually appealing while strengthening its connections with nearby historical monuments, parks and public spaces. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the government's objective is to develop Netaji Subhash Marg as more than just a traffic route by creating a vibrant public corridor that connects Delhi's history, architecture and cultural heritage with modern urban infrastructure.

The redevelopment plan divides the road into three sections based on their existing width and infrastructure. The first stretch, from Kashmiri Gate to GPO Chowk, has a width ranging between 12 and 24 metres. The second section, extending from GPO to Brij Mohan Chowk near Jama Masjid, has an average width of 45 metres. The third stretch, from Brij Mohan Chowk to Delhi Gate, has a road width ranging from 16.8 to 26 metres.

The proposed design will provide dedicated space for pedestrians and non-motorised transport alongside regular vehicular movement. Facilities will include footpaths, cycle tracks, bus lanes, motor vehicle lanes, parking areas and pedestrian plazas. The plan also includes modern public toilets on both sides of the road and improvements to existing bus stops. The streetscape development will follow the design guidelines issued by the Public Works Department (PWD).

A major component of the initiative is the integrated development of heritage landmarks and public spaces surrounding the corridor. Key locations identified include the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, St. James' Church, Kashmiri Gate, Subhash Park, Hindi Park, Agrasen Park, Sunheri Masjid and the Chandni Chowk intersection near the Red Fort. The project will also focus on improving 12 prominent heritage sites and green spaces, including Agrasen Park, Lothian Cemetery, the Old Railway Station square, the Red Fort green pocket, the Red Fort Dussehra ground, Sunheri Masjid garden, Subhash Park, Brij Mohan Chowk, Delhi Gate square, Ekta Sthal and Hindi Park.

As part of the redevelopment, the government has proposed a dedicated 'Heritage Interpretation Park' near Delhi Gate. The facility will feature statues, landscaped gardens, decorative pavilions, pedestrian pathways and parking arrangements. Its design will incorporate trees, ornamental plants and architectural elements reflecting the area's historical character. The broader beautification plan includes additional plantation, flower beds, green dividers, decorative walls, seating areas and modern streetlights along the road. Dedicated pedestrian crossings, traffic signals and improved junction designs are also proposed to ensure safer movement and better traffic management.

Speaking about the project, Rekha Gupta said Delhi represents centuries of history, cultural diversity, architectural heritage and traditions. She highlighted the importance of Old Delhi, which is home to iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Subhash Park and Kashmiri Gate. The Chief Minister emphasised that the redevelopment should strengthen the city's infrastructure without compromising its historical and cultural identity. She said the government's vision is to ensure that modern urban facilities enhance Delhi's heritage rather than come at the expense of its historical character. The proposed transformation of Netaji Subhash Marg is expected to give this historic stretch a more organised urban appearance while improving facilities for residents, commuters and tourists.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.