Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed strong dissatisfaction with the persistent cleanliness issues in Chandni Chowk, one of the capital’s most iconic and bustling heritage sites, during a hands-on cleanliness drive on Thursday. Participating in ‘Shramdaan’ as part of the nationwide ‘Swachhta Hi Seva’ (Cleanliness is Service) campaign, Gupta called on civic officials and local residents to take immediate action to restore the area’s cleanliness and preserve its cultural legacy.

Chandni Chowk, a historic marketplace that attracts lakhs of visitors daily, is a hub of religious and cultural activity, particularly during festivals like Navratri when yatras traverse its vibrant streets. However, the Chief Minister highlighted visible signs of neglect, such as widespread ‘paan’ stains and a noticeable lack of dustbins, which have marred the area’s aesthetic and hygienic standards. “Chandni Chowk is not just a market; it’s a heritage site of immense significance. We cannot allow it to be tarnished by litter and neglect,” Gupta told reporters during the drive.

Gupta issued strict directives to civic officials to prioritize cleanliness, emphasizing the need for adequate dustbin placement and regular maintenance. She also urged the community to take responsibility, calling on shopkeepers to ensure their employees and neighboring businesses refrain from littering. “Cleanliness is a collective effort. If a shopkeeper’s employee is dirtying the area, it’s their duty to intervene. Neighbors must hold each other accountable,” she said, stressing the importance of civic pride in maintaining Chandni Chowk’s charm.

Also Read: Delhi’s E-Bus Revolution: 6 New Substations Power 1,200 Buses

In a bid to curb visual pollution, Gupta also addressed the issue of unauthorized posters, instructing workers not to plaster her campaign posters on walls. “I’ve made it clear—no posters on walls. If hoardings are used, they must be removed promptly,” she stated, reinforcing her commitment to a cleaner, more organized urban landscape.

The Chief Minister’s visit underscores the urgency of addressing cleanliness in high-traffic areas like Chandni Chowk, especially as the festive season approaches. Authorities have been tasked with implementing sustainable waste management solutions, including regular cleaning drives and public awareness campaigns, to ensure the area remains a pristine destination for visitors and locals alike. Gupta’s hands-on approach signals a broader push for civic responsibility, aiming to make Chandni Chowk a model of cleanliness and heritage preservation in the heart of Delhi.

Also Read: Delhi Court Extends Custody of 2 Accused in Attack on CM Rekha Gupta