The first phase of the Chandni Chowk pedestrianisation will be completed by March 31 while the entire project is set to complete by May-end. Under the redevelopment project, the market is being turned into Delhi’s first pedestrian-only zone – a major step towards improving access to the crowded lanes and shops of the area.
The iconic market is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city – full of historic buildings, places of worship and some of the oldest traders and wholesalers of the country. People come from all over the world to explore the streets, savour the lip-smacking food of the neighbourhood and pick up souvenirs, ranging from traditional clothes to an array of spices, jewellery and much more.
Chandni Chowk is part of the walled city of Old Delhi, which was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after he switched his capital from Agra to Delhi in 1638. Here you will find glimpses of the splendour and romance of Delhi’s erstwhile royalty, from traditional havelis (mansions) to the spectacular Red Fort.
For travellers, the market has long been the perfect spot to begin an exploration of this historic city, by going back to its diverse roots and influences, bringing alive the colourful cultural milieu that Delhi is so known for. With the redevelopment of the area, exploring these timeless streets and the treasure trove of history and culture they carry, will become much easier and smoother.