Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

Traders and Delhi Urban Arts Commission arrive at a stalemate as negotiations break down over shifting of transformers to make way for pedestrian zones.

NEW DELHI: The differences between the traders and the Delhi Urban Arts Commission(DUAC) over the shifting of transformers in Chandni Chowk escalated as both sides failed to come up with an agreement over the issue in a meeting with lieutenant governor Anil Baijal on Tuesday.

The position of the transformers appears to be the main issue. While DUAC wants them to be moved to the side of the roads, the traders who use the pedestrian area for their businesses want them to remain in the middle.

The project includes creation of 6-13 meter wide pedestrian zones running parallel to the shops on either side of the roads. It will be host to toilets, water ATMs, kiosks, etc on the central verge.

The issue-brought forward by DUAC-of placing the transformers on the central verge is that it would compromise the ‘heritage look’ of the Chandni Chowk area. The court then ordered Shahajahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) Board to have a meeting to fix the issue.

The other issue which is a technical one is the type of transformer (dry or oil-type transformer) that is to be installed. The LG has asked SRDC to take the final decision on such issues.

The final decision, however, on the installation of transformers would be presented in front of a joint committee which would be then forwarded to the court on September 2.

The traders’ body maintains their stance against installation of transformers on the pavement. DUAC had submitted a detailed report, earlier in June, containing all the recommendations on the redevelopment plan. Despite implementation of some changes, the traders’ body has been dead against the shifting of transformers.

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