New Delhi, September 21: The Delhi government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to redevelop the historic Town Hall complex in Chandni Chowk as a Global Heritage Centre.
The MoU was signed between the Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) and the MCD in the presence of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. The project will encompass the Town Hall, Press Building and adjoining park, with plans to transform the complex into a major hub for museums, cultural activities and heritage tourism.
The Grade-I heritage complex, constructed between 1860 and 1866, covers approximately 12,180 square metres. It served as the MCD headquarters until the civic body moved to the Dr SP Mukherjee Civic Centre in 2010. Since then, a significant portion of the historic complex has remained unused.
Under the redevelopment plan, the structure will undergo adaptive reuse while preserving its architectural and heritage character. The DTTDC will conduct structural surveys, assess the site and prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR). The project may subsequently be implemented through public investment or a public-private partnership.
A Joint Working Group comprising officials from the DTTDC and MCD will oversee the project. The initial MoU will remain valid for 30 years and may be extended by another 30 years with mutual consent. Historical records, artefacts and archival materials associated with the Town Hall will continue to remain under the custody of the MCD.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the Town Hall is an important part of Delhi's history and that its redevelopment would help connect the heritage of Old Delhi with modern tourism while introducing younger generations to the city's historical legacy.
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said the initiative would strengthen heritage tourism in Chandni Chowk and make the historic complex more accessible and appealing to visitors from India and abroad.
