Netaji Subhash Marg to Become a Stunning Heritage-Modern Transit Corridor
CM Rekha Gupta announces a major revamp of Netaji Subhash Marg to blend Delhi's rich history with modern urban transit and beautification.
The Delhi Government, led by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform Netaji Subhash Marg, one of the capital's most storied and congested thoroughfares, into a world-class heritage-modern transit corridor. The project aims to redefine the 3.3-kilometre stretch between Delhi Gate and Kashmiri Gate, turning it from a mere traffic artery into a vibrant cultural bridge.
Spearheaded by the Indraprastha Heritage Redevelopment Corporation (IVPN), the redevelopment is designed to make the area more organized, aesthetically pleasing, and safe for both commuters and tourists. According to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the vision is to seamlessly blend Delhi's rich architecture and history with the demands of modern urban living.
A Tailored Approach to Urban Design
Recognizing that the road width varies significantly across the stretch, the government has divided the beautification plan into three distinct categories to ensure optimal space management:
- Section One (Kashmiri Gate to GPO Chowk): Identified as the busiest segment, this area features a width ranging from 12 to 24 meters.
- Section Two (GPO to Brij Mohan Chowk): This stretch, leading toward Jama Masjid, offers a more generous average width of 45 meters.
- Section Three (Brij Mohan Chowk to Delhi Gate): The final leg of the corridor has an average width between 16.8 and 26 meters.
Prioritizing Pedestrians and Public Comfort
Moving away from a vehicle-centric approach, the new plan places a heavy emphasis on non-motorized transport and pedestrian safety. The redevelopment will include:
- Dedicated footpaths and pedestrian plazas.
- Cycle tracks and organized bus lanes.
- Strategic parking facilities to reduce roadside congestion.
- Upgraded bus stops and the construction of modern public restrooms on both sides of the road.
These improvements are being implemented following the design guidelines provided by the Public Works Department (PWD) as part of the broader streetscape project.
Connecting the Icons of Old Delhi
A cornerstone of the project is the integrated development of the numerous historical and cultural landmarks that flank Netaji Subhash Marg. The corridor will act as a connective thread for sites including the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, St. James' Church, and the Kashmiri Gate area, as well as the intersection at Chandni Chowk.
The plan further proposes the integration of 12 prominent green spaces and locations to enhance the city's lungs and visual appeal. These include:
- Agrasen Park and Subhash Park.
- Hindi Park and the Red Fort green pocket.
- Lothian Cemetery and the Old Railway Station square.
- The Red Fort’s Dussehra ground, Sunheri Masjid garden, Brij Mohan Chowk, Delhi Gate square, and Ekta Sthal.
The 'Heritage Interpretation Park' and Greenery
One of the most exciting additions to the project is the proposed Heritage Interpretation Park near Delhi Gate. This specialized zone will feature architectural elements linked to the area's history, complemented by statues, attractive pavilions, and pedestrian pathways.
To complete the transformation, the government will install green dividers, flower beds, and a variety of trees and ornamental plants along the route. The aesthetic appeal will be further enhanced by decorative walls, designated seating areas, and street lighting designed to reflect the heritage of the capital.
To ensure the safety of the thousands who traverse this route daily, the project will also introduce well-organized junctions, modernized traffic signals, and clearly designated pedestrian crossings.