Tram on track: Chandni Chowk plan gets DUAC nod

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi's plan to revive a tram service in the walled city after 46 years is all set to become a reality. Literally, reports Neelam Pandey.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi's plan to revive a tram service in the walled city after 46 years is all set to become a reality. Literally.

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The Delhi Urban Arts Commission (DUAC) has granted a preliminary approval to the MCD's ambitious plan to redevelop Chandni Chowk and its surrounding areas.

The commission, however, has recommended some modifications to MCD's plan. For instance, rather than two tracks, they have suggested a single track for the tram.

"The tram can run in the middle of the Chandni Chowk, allowing commuters to get off and get in from both the sides," said K T Ravindran, chairman of DUAC.

Ravindran said the tram should be electrified and an open vehicle to enable people to carry goods as well.

"At the conceptual level, the plan is acceptable. But we had some fears that the area shouldn't become gentrified. The spirit and character of the city needs to be maintained," added Ravindran.

These trams will replace the green CNG-driven mini-buses currently plying in the area after the high court banned cycle rickshaws.

The commission suggested that motorised movement should be allowed at access roads only.

It said this could be achieved by preventing parking of vehicles in Chandni Chowk and using the road for emergency vehicles or processions.

As per the plan, the parade ground parking will be turned into a multi-level one.

The vertical surfaces and facades of heritage buildings will also restored.