In a recent development, the High Court of Delhi has mandated that the Delhi Government takes responsibility for maintaining and enhancing the Chandni Chowk redevelopment and beautification project. This ruling was issued by a bench led by Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma in an order released on Thursday. The court emphasized that the revitalization of the Chandni Chowk market was primarily intended to benefit the traders' association, and as a result, they share a social responsibility for its preservation.

The court's decision came as a conclusion to a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated by the court itself regarding the Chandni Chowk redevelopment. Despite various measures taken by the authorities, such as the installation of boom-barriers at street intersections and the deployment of CCTV cameras, the court found no justification to proceed with the PIL.

Nevertheless, the bench, which also included Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, emphasized in an order dated November 8 that the state government must ensure the continued maintenance of the redevelopment work that has been undertaken. The court further suggested that the traders should cooperate with the authorities and explore options to manage the boom-barriers in collaboration with the Delhi Police, possibly by employing their own personnel. The court also acknowledged the steps taken by the police in addressing issues related to unauthorized hawkers, squatters, and encroachers.

Additionally, the court acknowledged a statement made by the government lawyer, affirming that the responsibility for preserving the Chandni Chowk redevelopment and beautification project lies with the government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and other relevant authorities. This collaborative effort has restored Chandni Chowk to its former glory.