Latest news with #Mughal-era
The Wire
12 hours ago
- Business
- The Wire
‘Development For Whom?': Residents of Demolished Madrasi Camp Tackle Grief, Inconvenience and Loss
Menu हिंदी తెలుగు اردو Home Politics Economy World Security Law Science Society Culture Editor's Pick Opinion Support independent journalism. Donate Now Government 'Development For Whom?': Residents of Demolished Madrasi Camp Tackle Grief, Inconvenience and Loss Oohini Mukhopadhyay and Zeeshan Kaskar 51 minutes ago 'This is BJP's demolition spree, Mr Modi calls it development, but for whom? For us, it's destruction. Development means uplifting the poor, not throwing them out.' Residents collect their belongings from the rubble at the Madrasi Camp in New Delhi, which was demolished on June 1. Photo: The Wire. Real journalism holds power accountable Since 2015, The Wire has done just that. But we can continue only with your support. Contribute now New Delhi: On June 1, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) demolished homes in the Madrasi Camp in New Delhi's Jangpura area on the directions of the Delhi high court. The Madrasi Camp is primarily home to working class Tamils. The Delhi government has been directed to relocate families living there as the settlements have allegedly been blocking a key drain. While the Tamil Nadu government has said that it will support families looking to return to their home districts, three days after the bulldozers rolled in, the rubble at Madrasi Camp is still with grief. Krishna, a resident of the camp, is an employee at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He says the demolition was arbitrary and offers examples of how structures on the same tract of land have been left untouched while others were taken down. 'They told us the drain had to be cleared. And yet, the buildings right across from ours are still standing. While the temple was demolished, the airline staff quarters nearby are untouched,' he says. While notices were issued in advance, many residents like Krishna say they were misled and told that it would be routine drain maintenance work, not a full demolition. Residents also point out the glaring disparity of treatment. Krishna notes that a high-profile government housing, also purportedly on encroached land, was never touched. 'This is BJP's demolition spree, Mr Modi calls it development, but for whom? For us, it's destruction. Development means uplifting the poor, not throwing them out,' he said. Residents collect their belongings from the rubble at the Madrasi Camp in New Delhi, which was demolished on June 1. Photo: The Wire. Encroachments or the Metro construction? The Barapullah bridge, a 400-year-old Mughal-era structure, lies beneath the modern Barapullah flyover in Delhi. It is believed to have been constructed in 1621-22, and was once an important passage for Mughals travelling between Humayun's Tomb and the Nizamuddin Dargah. Over time, the bridge had fallen into disrepair. Untreated sewage and garbage collecting in the canal under the Barapullah bridge, encroachments, and its damaged piers had rendered it almost unrecognisable as a historical site. The garbage collecting in the canal has also led to flooding, as it stopped rainwater from flowing through the canal. While the garbage has now been cleared, the water in it still gives off a foul smell. According to authorities, the camp was allegedly blocking the Barapullah drain, which was leading to the water-logging. But residents say the problem began only after Metro construction in the area, which blocked a water outlet to the Yamuna. In an order on May 9, the Delhi high court directed the Delhi government's Public Works Department to begin demolishing the camp starting from June 1. What followed left hundreds of families homeless overnight, with many accusing the authorities of systemic neglect. Residents have also claimed that the DDA also appears to have a ramshackle rehabilitation process. Three days since the demolition, one of the residents in the camp who requested anonymity says, 'I haven't cooked or eaten anything since. They threw us out, our belongings were stolen, our houses destroyed. What more can I say?'. For many, the camp was home for decades. 'I've lived here 55 years,' the woman quoted above adds, murmuring of her children who grew up here. Residents collect their belongings from the rubble at the Madrasi Camp in New Delhi, which was demolished on June 1. Photo: The Wire. Just three months ago, DDA officials had surveyed the area. A migrant from Bengal, Ashok, says, 'They (BJP MLA Tarvinder Singh Marwah and his supporters) came with tulsi leaves and Ganga water during the Delhi election campaign season, swearing that they would resettle residents in the same area.' Another resident recalled. 'They took Rs 500 for documentation. Out of the 370 who submitted documents, only 179 were approved. Many have been denied any resettlement.' A key grievance is that while the court was told only 300 families lived in the camp, nearly 700 were displaced. 'Only 179 got homes. The rest are now living on the streets,' says Ashok. 'I didn't get any house,' a woman says. 'They've destroyed everything. Where should I go with my small children?' she asks. Narela Several families have been relocated to Narela, over 50 kilometres away. 'I work in the Nirman Bhawan as a private employee – how will I reach the office from Narela? If my commute costs Rs 12,000 a month and I earn Rs 20,000, what do I survive on?' says Vijay Kumar, who was at the Madrasi Camp site when The Wire visited. 'It takes three hours just to get there,' says another woman whose son was born in the Madrasi Camp and who was searching for his school books in the rubble. Another resident asks, 'How will we keep our jobs when we have to travel six hours a day? My wife cleans houses here, I work at the Bima Bhawan. We can't afford to commute.' For A. Palani, a housekeeper in his forties who is originally from Tiruvannamalai in Tamil Nadu, the biggest worry is his children. 'My daughters study in Lajpat Nagar. How will they travel five hours every day from Narela?' he asks. Local residents say no elected representative has visited the site since the court order. 'Our MLA Marwah lives nearby but never came. The CM says Rs 700 crore was allocated for slum dwellers – was it for this demolition?' she says. Despite the Delhi government's claim in court that rehabilitation would happen under the 2015 slum policy, those on the ground say none of the promised help has come. In the absence of approachable authorities, residents are relying on civil society and legal aid. Many residents who are armed with papers have had to move courts to secure rehabilitation in Narela as well. For Tamil migrants of Madrasi Camp, the demolition has not just broken homes but erased history. Krishna says, 'My grandfather came here in 1962. My father was born here. So was I. Now, they want to send us back like we were never part of this city.' The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments. Make a contribution to Independent Journalism Related News 8,000 Homes Demolished in Gujarat's Siasat Nagar, Government Cites 'National Security The Gujarat Evictions and the Weaponisation of National Security Their Shrines Demolished, Muslims in Gujarat's Gir Somnath Have Nowhere to Look for Hope 'Unjustified and Solely Politically Motivated': Lokpal Dismisses Pleas Against ex-SEBI Chief Madhabi Buch Banu Mushtaq's Importance Goes Much Beyond the Booker What Amit Shah's Amarnath Yatra Security Meeting Says About Who Controls Law and Order in J&K Haryana | Muslim Man Dies After Being Hit in 'Skull Cap' Dispute; Not Hate Crime, Say Police The Politics of 'Heart Lamp' Is Profound, Urgent and Reflects the Lived Reality of Millions Do We Want to Become Vishwa Guru or Vish Guru? View in Desktop Mode About Us Contact Us Support Us © Copyright. All Rights Reserved.
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Sport
- Hindustan Times
Delhi: Talkatora indoor stadium set for ₹1.84 crore overhaul
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) is set to begin a comprehensive revamp of the Talkatora Indoor Stadium — the capital's oldest indoor sporting venue — including replacement of seating and upgradation of audio-visual systems under a ₹1.84 crore project, officials said. Constructed in 1974 and last refurbished ahead of the 2010 Commonwealth Games, the fully air-conditioned facility will undergo phased redevelopment over four months, NDMC officials confirmed on Monday. A senior NDMC official, requesting anonymity, said, 'The bids for executing improvements to the Talkatora Indoor Stadium were invited on May 30, and the process is expected to be completed by June 10.' The redevelopment includes replacing around 3,000 existing chair units, of which 2,700 will be installed in the seating area. According to NDMC's project report, the new arrangement will include 'floor-mounted tip-up seats' with shared armrests. 'The upgrade work will ensure that visitors get a comfortable experience while attending events. We have also mandated a five-year warranty to ensure upkeep of the sitting area,' the official added. The project will also involve demolishing the existing cement-concrete base and laying 2,000 sq. metres of new heavy-duty PVC flooring. The official noted that 'upgradation of the light and sound system is also on cards.' Located near the President's Estate, the stadium currently accommodates 2,700 spectators and is a popular venue for political and social gatherings, cultural events, conferences, and sports functions. Its name is derived from the adjacent Mughal-era Talkatora Garden, once home to a mediaeval reservoir that collected water from the South-Central Ridge streams. The stadium is offered for booking under three categories: Category A for tournaments and sports events; Category B for school events and annual functions; and Category C for commercial programmes like exhibitions, fashion shows, and religious or political functions, officials said. Separately, NDMC on Sunday announced plans to construct a 27-metre-tall clock tower near the Talkatora roundabout, at the intersection of Mandir Marg and Talkatora Road, under a ₹1.3 crore project. Officials said the clock tower will feature a two-metre diameter clock and will be built with an octagonal RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) design, finished with clay bricks and ornamental detailing. The project is expected to be completed by December 2025, officials added.
India.com
5 days ago
- India.com
5 Ultimate Wildlife Safari Experience Near Chandigarh
The compact city of Chandigarh which rests beneath Himalayan foothills provides dual advantages by demonstrating architectural value and mountain scenery while becoming the entrance to Indian wildlife sanctuaries. Nature enthusiasts along with adventure seekers discover memorable wilderness adventures when they explore areas surrounding Chandigarh. Five key aspects demonstrate that the Chandigarh neighborhood offers exceptional wildlife safari encounters. 1. Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary exists near Chandigarh's periphery and it functions as an excellent sanctuary for bird watchers as well as naturalists. A selection of peafowl along with partridges and quails inhabit this 3 square kilometer sanctuary where wintertime brings additional migration of birds. The sanctuary keeps a home for jackals, hares and porcupines in addition to all other creatures. Visitors can visit Sukhna Lake from this location because it provides convenient access to both morning walks and mini-wildlife expeditions. People visiting can join guided nature walks or engage in trekking through the peaceful forest environment. 2. Morni Hills Morni Hills near Chandigarh provides visitors with both wildlife experiences and exciting adventure opportunities about 45 kilometers away. The Shivalik Range contains this region where dense forests support many leopard populations together with sambars, wild boars and a plethora of bird species. Travelers can experience wildlife sightings by driving along jeeps through the forested hills at this location even though official safari operations are not present. Morni Hills stands as a superior option for tourists who want to combine thrilling rock climbing and trekking and camping with their safari journey. 3. Nepli Forest Reserve Travelers seeking empty locations should explore Nepli Forest Reserve situated near Zirakpur (about 20 km from Chandigarh) where they can discover undisturbed biodiversity. Monkeys along with deer foxes and reptiles thrive in the flora-rich area of this natural habitat. With its little size against other reserves it maintains an attractive untouched quality that enables visitors to experience short nature walks and observe wildlife behavior. The site attracts local populations who use it for weekend outings and easy walking which appeals to families as a wonderful destination. 4. Pinjore Gardens & Yadavindra Gardens The Yadavindra Gardens more than hold Mughal-era architecture because they possess additional value as a place for visiting. The gardens cover extensive ground while hills surrounding them blend with small forest sections where deer and monkeys can occasionally be seen by visitors. Guests can take guided tours of the gardens to discover information about both local natural plants and animals while experiencing a blend of history and wildlife care. Travelers who plan to visit these gardens can do so in half a day since Chandigarh lies 20 kilometers away. 5. Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife enthusiasts seeking serious wildlife encounters should travel 80 kilometers from Chandigarh to reach Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary in Haryana. The sanctuary extends over an area of 76 square kilometers while providing shelter to leopards and nilgais, wild boars, and hyenas among others. This sanctuary can best be discovered through jeep safaris that local operators hold for visitors. Winter month bird migration brings a variety of exotic species to settle in the sanctuary so birdwatchers will find their visit especially rewarding. Conclusion The areas adjacent to Chandigarh include thrilling activities together with educational journeys and peaceful natural leisure opportunities for everyone wanting to experience nature. Each wildlife sanctuary and park in the region between Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and Bir Shikargah and Kalesar National Park provides its visitors with separate ways to see India's diverse natural ecosystems firsthand. Strategic planning together with ecosystem respect and sustainable practices will allow you to maintain memorable wildlife encounters which future generations can also enjoy these valuable natural resources. Get your folding telescopes ready because you should start your phenomenal outdoor adventure into the wilderness region of northern India.
New Indian Express
23-05-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Crisis on Chandni Chowk's revamped stretch
NEW DELHI: Once projected as a flagship urban renewal initiative that would marry heritage with modernity, the 1.3-km redeveloped stretch of Chandni Chowk—from Lal Jain Mandir to Fatehpuri—now stands as a troubling contradiction. Nearly four years after its grand inauguration in 2021, the iconic corridor paints a picture of neglect and mismanagement. What was once envisioned as a pedestrian-friendly, aesthetically revitalised public space is today a patchwork of issues: homeless individuals, beggars and vagrants occupying the area; rising reports of thefts and drug-related activities; and growing concerns among traders and residents over safety and dwindling footfall. 'The entire project is jeopardised,' says Sanjay Bhargava, president of the Chandni Chowk Traders Welfare Association. 'It's complete jungle raaj—vehicles move freely during prohibited hours, footpaths are completely encroached and the PWD is not acting even when encroachments have been officially declared.' Despite repeated inspections and directives, the stretch continues to be described as a 'site of negligence.' According to Bhargava, unauthorised constructions have disfigured heritage facades, violating guidelines laid out under the approved Phase 2 of the redevelopment plan. The first phase of the Chandni Chowk redevelopment was inaugurated in September 2021 by former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. The project aimed to restore the grandeur of the Mughal-era marketplace, combining infrastructure upgrades with aesthetic improvements. However, the follow-up Phase 2, focused on façade restoration and improving architectural consistency, remains stalled.
Nahar Net
22-05-2025
- Business
- Nahar Net
Kashmir tourism bears brunt after tourist massacre and India-Pakistan military strikes
by Naharnet Newsdesk 22 May 2025, 14:34 There are hardly any tourists in the scenic Himalayan region of Kashmir. Most of the hotels and ornate pinewood houseboats are empty. Resorts in the snowclad mountains have fallen silent. Hundreds of cabs are parked and idle. It's the fallout of last month's gun massacre that left 26 people, mostly Hindu tourists, dead in Indian-controlled Kashmir followed by tit-for-tat military strikes by India and Pakistan, bringing the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of their third war over the region. "There might be some tourist arrivals, but it counts almost negligible. It is almost a zero footfall right now," said Yaseen Tuman, who operates multiple houseboats in the region's main city of Srinagar. "There is a haunting silence now." Tens of thousands of panicked tourists left Kashmir within days after the rare killings of tourists on April 22 at a picture-perfect meadow in southern resort town of Pahalgam. Following the attack, authorities temporarily closed dozens of tourist resorts in the region, adding to fear and causing occupancy rates to plummet. Graphic images, repeatedly circulated through TV channels and social media, deepened panic and anger. India blamed Pakistan for supporting the attackers, a charge Islamabad denied. Those who had stayed put fled soon after tensions between India and Pakistan spiked. As the two countries fired missiles and drones at each other, the region witnessed mass cancellations of tourist bookings. New Delhi and Islamabad reached a U.S.-mediated ceasefire on May 10 but hardly any new bookings have come in, tour operators said. Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, vice president of the Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association, said at least 12,000 rooms in the region's hundreds of hotels and guesthouses were previously booked until June. Almost all bookings have been cancelled, and tens of thousands of people associated with hotels are without jobs, he said. "It's a huge loss." Ahmed said. The decline has had a ripple effect on the local economy. Handicrafts, food stalls and taxi operators have lost most of their business. Idyllic destinations, like the resort towns of Gulmarg and Pahalgam, once a magnet for travelers, are eerily silent. Lines of colorful hand-carved boats, known as shikaras, lie deserted, mostly anchored still on Srinagar's normally bustling Dal Lake. Tens of thousands of daily wage workers have hardly any work. "There used to be long lines of tourists waiting for boat rides. There are none now," said boatman Fayaz Ahmed. Taxi driver Mohammed Irfan would take tourists for long drives to hill stations and show them grand Mughal-era gardens. "Even a half day of break was a luxury, and we would pray for it. Now, my taxi lies standstill for almost two weeks," he said. In recent years, the tourism sector grew substantially, making up about 7% of the region's economy, according to official figures. Omar Abdullah, Kashmir's top elected official, said before the attack on tourists that the government was aiming to increase tourism's share of the economy to at least 15% in the next four to five years. Indian-controlled Kashmir was a top destination for visitors until the armed rebellion against Indian rule began in 1989. Warfare laid waste to the stunningly beautiful region, which is partly controlled by Pakistan and claimed by both countries in its entirety. As the conflict ground on, the tourism sector slowly revived but occasional military skirmishes between India and Pakistan kept visitors at bay. But India vigorously pushed tourism after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government scrapped the disputed region's semi-autonomy in 2019. Tensions have simmered, but the region has also drawn millions of visitors amid a strange calm enforced by an intensified security crackdown. According to official data, close to 3 million tourists visited the region in 2024, a rise from 2.71 million visitors in 2023 and 2.67 million in 2022. The massive influx prompted many locals to invest in the sector, setting up family-run guesthouses, luxury hotels, and transport companies in a region with few alternatives. Tourists remained largely unfazed even as Modi's administration has governed Kashmir with an iron fist in recent years, claiming militancy in the region was in check and a tourism influx was a sign of normalcy returning. The massacre shattered those claims. Experts say that the Modi government's optimism was largely misplaced and that the rising tourism in the region of which it boasted was a fragile barometer of normalcy. Last year, Abdullah, the region's chief minister, cautioned against such optimism. Tuman, who is also a sixth-generation tour operator, said he was not too optimistic about an immediate revival as bookings for the summer were almost all canceled. "If all goes well, it will take at least six months for tourism to revive," he said. Ahmed, the hotels association official, said India and Pakistan need to resolve the dispute for the region's prosperity. "Tourism needs peace. If (Kashmir) problem is not solved … maybe after two months, it will be again same thing."
