Delhi CM orders comprehensive overhaul of city’s wholesale markets

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has taken a strong and proactive stance on revitalising the national capital’s wholesale fruit, vegetable, and flower markets. She has directed the concerned departments to initiate immediate corrective measures while laying out a clear roadmap for the modernisation of these key trading hubs.

In a high-level meeting held with senior officials on Saturday, the Chief Minister expressed serious concern over the poor state of sanitation, waste management, road infrastructure, safety, drainage, and drinking water supply in these markets.

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She assured that there would be no dearth of funds for the maintenance and upgradation of Delhi’s mandis, and emphasized that the government is fully committed to providing adequate resources—including land and finances—for the effort.

Delhi’s Development Minister Kapil Mishra and senior officials from all relevant departments and civic agencies attended the meeting, where a detailed action plan was discussed.

CM Gupta referred to her recent visit to Azadpur Mandi, where she received numerous complaints from vendors and visitors regarding uncollected garbage, stray animals, and damaged roads. She noted that similar problems had been reported in other markets, making it clear that a comprehensive systemic overhaul was urgently needed.

She stressed that the government is approaching the task of rejuvenating Delhi’s mandis with utmost seriousness.

“We want our markets to function like modern, well-organised mandis, where shopkeepers, farmers, and the general public have access to proper infrastructure and basic amenities,” she said.

The Chief Minister announced that modern waste processing plants would be installed near the markets to ensure efficient waste disposal and recycling. She instructed officials to immediately begin identifying suitable plots for these facilities and assured them that the government would remove any logistical or administrative hurdles.

Additionally, Gupta directed officials to coordinate with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to develop a robust system for controlling the movement of stray animals in and around the markets.

To tackle issues like water-logging and foul odours during the monsoon season, it was decided that the repair and upgrading of ageing sewer systems would be fast-tracked. She also ordered the installation of CCTV surveillance systems to enhance security within the markets.

Reiterating the government’s commitment, the Chief Minister stated that the aim is to transform these markets into modern, efficient spaces that uphold not only commercial value but also the dignity and convenience of those who depend on them.

She added that farmers, small traders, and consumers must all benefit equally from this transformation, and that financial constraints would not be allowed to hinder progress.

Gupta concluded by affirming that the Delhi government is dedicated to creating a thriving and accountable market infrastructure—one that serves as both a commercial hub and a vital lifeline for farming communities in Delhi and neighbouring states.