New Delhi, Feb 26 (NationPress) On Thursday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta officially launched several initiatives, including the underground relocation of unsightly electricity wires in Chandni Chowk, aimed at both preserving the area's heritage and enhancing its infrastructure, according to a government spokesperson.

Among the notable projects initiated by the Chief Minister is the plan to bury overhead electricity cables in the Chandni Chowk vicinity. This move aims to not only beautify the area but also to bolster the safety and reliability of its power supply.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Chandni Chowk transcends its identity as a bustling market; it stands as a vibrant testament to India’s rich cultural, historical, and commercial legacy.

“Overhead wiring has long detracted from its aesthetic appeal while also posing safety concerns. This initiative will significantly enhance organization, safety, and visual charm in the area,” she stated.

She characterized the endeavor as a pivotal enhancement of power infrastructure, reinforcing a commitment to heritage conservation and the evolution of smart infrastructure.

Additionally, Chief Minister Gupta laid the groundwork for a new 66/11 kV GIS grid sub-station in Mandoli, along with four Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in Shivalik, Dwarka, and Goyla Khurd.

The Mandoli sub-station will feature a capacity of 63 MVA, with an investment of roughly Rs 55.5 crore and a completion timeline of 18 months, benefitting an estimated 1.5 lakh consumers, as per official statements.

The Delhi government is dedicated to fostering development while protecting heritage, ensuring that modern, efficient facilities are accessible throughout the capital.

Prominent figures present at the event included South Delhi MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, Cabinet Minister Ashish Sood, Councillor Suman Gupta, and other dignitaries.

To eliminate hanging wires across 28 historic streets and lanes of Chandni Chowk, the Delhi government, in collaboration with BSES Yamuna Power Limited (BYPL), has embarked on a substantial project.

With an estimated cost of around Rs 159.75 crore, this initiative will see approximately 52.5 kilometers of overhead lines moved underground.

The project encompasses the installation of 500 new feeder pillars, decorative street lighting poles, and the deployment of advanced ‘digital twin’ technology for effective monitoring.

Work will be executed in phases during nighttime hours to mitigate disruption to daily activities and traffic flow.

Approximately 10,000 consumers are expected to benefit from this initiative, which aims to minimize fire hazards, reduce weather-related power interruptions, enhance safety, improve supply reliability, and significantly beautify the historic area.

Chief Minister Gupta noted that while an initial promise of Rs 100 crore had been made for development projects in the Chandni Chowk Lok Sabha constituency, this allocation could potentially increase to Rs 1,000 crore based on evolving needs.

She also mentioned that the redevelopment of 28 roads has already commenced under the current phase, reaffirming her commitment to the holistic development of Old Delhi.

Gupta stated that she has retained oversight of the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Board to effectively tackle issues related to roads, parking, encroachments, public amenities, and other civic necessities.

The ultimate aim is to transform this historic zone into a well-planned, tourist-friendly, and commercially vibrant area equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure.