MCD Abandons Kamla Market Revamp Plans Citing Financial Constraints
New Delhi: In a significant setback for one of Delhi's historic commercial hubs, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has officially discarded its ambitious plans for a comprehensive revamp of Kamla Market. Located opposite the bustling New Delhi Railway Station, the market's much-needed transformation has been shelved due to a severe fund crunch and concerns over long-term upkeep.
Phase I Completed, Phase II Scrapped
During the 2024–25 fiscal year, MCD successfully implemented Phase I of the project, which included essential repairs to the market's entrance and other damaged sections of the façade. The civic body also revamped the iconic clock tower and upgraded the surrounding area, providing a temporary facelift to the aging structure.
However, the more extensive Phase II upgrades, which were proposed to address deeper infrastructural issues, have now been abandoned. These plans encompassed critical repairs to internal common areas, comprehensive roof maintenance, improvement of pavements, and standardization of shop fronts to enhance the market's aesthetic and functional appeal.
Failed Funding Efforts and Partial Relief
Officials revealed that MCD had actively approached various organizations to secure funds through corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Despite these efforts, the attempts to arrange financial support did not materialize, leaving the civic body with insufficient resources to proceed with the full-scale renovation.
Nevertheless, a partial relief measure is underway. An official stated, "We are working on the construction of a toilet for women and persons with disabilities after demolishing an old and dysfunctional public convenience. There was no such facility earlier, which caused inconvenience to many people. We also plan to develop a modern toilet here and hand it over to the market association." This initiative aims to address a basic but crucial need that has long been neglected.
Historical Significance and Current Challenges
Kamla Market, situated near Ajmeri Gate in central Delhi, holds a rich historical legacy. Established in 1951, the shops were originally allotted to refugees who migrated from Pakistan during the Partition, with the objective of providing them sustainable livelihoods. The market was inaugurated by India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and named in honor of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's late wife, Kamala Nehru.
Over the decades, the market evolved into a prominent hub for air coolers and later became a base for the city's goods transporters. However, the lack of regular maintenance and widespread encroachment on roads and common areas have severely impacted accessibility. The roof inside the market is damaged in multiple places, while pavements outside the small shops are in a deplorable condition. Stacks of goods placed along walkways further restrict movement, making it difficult for pedestrians to navigate the congested area.
Future Prospects and Civic Cooperation
While local traders have consistently demanded concrete measures to revitalize the market, MCD officials maintain that substantial improvement will not be feasible without the active cooperation of shopkeepers and visitors. The civic body emphasizes the necessity of keeping the area clean and free from encroachments to ensure any future initiatives can succeed.
The abandonment of the revamp plan underscores the ongoing challenges faced by historic markets in urban centers, balancing preservation with modernization amid financial and logistical hurdles.
