Delhi’s largest garments hub undergoes Rs 162 crore revamp

This project will be carried out in two stages, following the model of the Chandni Chowk market revamp completed in September 2021.

Gandhi Nagar market, renowned for its readymade garments and textiles in east Delhi, is set to undergo a significant transformation. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi plans to convert this heavily congested area into a revamped shopping destination. The entire project, estimated to cost Rs 162 crore in the first phase, will be carried out in two stages, following the model of the Chandni Chowk market revamp completed in September 2021. The specific timeline for the project is yet to be finalised.

In the initial phase of the Gandhi Nagar market redevelopment project, two new multilevel parking lots will be constructed. Additionally, there will be an extensive overhaul of road and drainage infrastructure, implementation of a new fire safety system, and the introduction of golf carts for last-mile connectivity. The second phase of the project will primarily focus on beautification and enhancing the market’s facades.

This initiative is part of the market redevelopment plan outlined in the Delhi government’s 2022-23 Rozgar Budget. Originally, the plan was under the jurisdiction of the industries department. However, according to a communication dated September 14 from Gyanesh Bharti, MCD commissioner, the Delhi government has requested MCD to execute the project due to their expertise in such work. The industries department is expected to provide funding for the project.

The primary objective of this project is to revamp the market by improving roads, lanes, sewer lines, parking spaces, and public utilities, making it more conducive for exports. Over the past six months, various organisations, including the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), officials from the industries department, engineering department, Delhi Jal Board, and BSES, have conducted multiple assessments of the area to determine the necessary improvements.

A detailed 14-point action plan has been devised for the first phase, concentrating on enhancing the market’s infrastructure. The subsequent phase will emphasise further beautification and facade enhancements.

Gandhi Nagar, located along Pushta road in east Delhi, is a historic market and renowned as one of Asia’s largest hubs for readymade garments and textiles. According to MCD estimates, the market generates a daily turnover of more than Rs 100 crore, hosting around 25,000 shops and 10,000 household manufacturing units.