Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday, 3 August chaired a high-level review of the redevelopment of the capital's agricultural markets, assessing the progress of ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects across key mandis including Ghazipur, Narela, and the Integrated Freight Complex (IFC) Ghazipur. The review signals the Delhi government's push to modernise the city's agricultural supply chain ahead of several project deadlines.

Key Developments Reviewed

The meeting examined the status of multiple projects aimed at upgrading basic infrastructure across Delhi's agricultural markets. Chief Minister Gupta emphasised that these markets form a critical link between farmers, traders, and consumers, and that aligning them with contemporary requirements remains a stated priority for her administration.

'Well-planned markets equipped with modern facilities and stronger infrastructure would not only make trade more efficient but also strengthen the entire agricultural marketing system,' Gupta said, according to an official statement.

Ghazipur Poultry Market: 85% Complete, ₹193.29 Crore Project

Officials briefed the Chief Minister on the modern poultry market being developed over nearly 15 acres in Ghazipur. The project, with a total outlay of ₹193.29 crore, commenced construction in March 2019 and is targeted for completion by 31 December 2026. Around 85% of the work has been completed so far. Once operational, the facility will house shops for 100 wholesale traders along with 120 processing units.

Waterlogging and Cleanliness at Ghazipur Fruit, Vegetable and Flower Market

At the Ghazipur Fruit, Vegetable and Flower Market, officials reported that work is underway on a 200-metre bypass drainage pipeline to address persistent waterlogging — a recurring concern for traders operating in the area. The approved cost of this drainage project is ₹17 lakh. Separately, the department is conducting regular drives to remove stray animals from the market premises to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards.

Narela Grain Market: Two Steel Sheds at ₹11 Crore

The meeting also reviewed a proposal to construct two additional steel sheds at the Narela Grain Market to meet growing trader requirements. The project is estimated to cost approximately ₹11 crore and is expected to be completed by July 2027.

IFC Ghazipur: Modern Flower Market Planned in Phases

Officials informed the review that 10 acres of land was acquired from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in 2001 at the Integrated Freight Complex (IFC), Ghazipur. A modern flower market is planned to be developed in phases within this complex, though a cost estimate and timeline were not specified in the official statement. Chief Minister Gupta reiterated that the government is committed to ensuring all projects move forward as planned and within stipulated timelines.

The systematic upgrade of Delhi's mandis — long criticised for inadequate infrastructure, poor drainage, and sanitation gaps — is being closely watched by farmer and trader groups who depend on these markets for their livelihoods.