New Delhi: Residents of Shalimar Bagh are living in fear after a series of official notices appeared along a nearly one-kilometre stretch near Max Hospital Road, indicating a proposed road widening project that could put several homes at risk of demolition.
The notices seek property documents from homeowners whose buildings allegedly fall within the demarcated widening zone. Locals say the development has caused panic, especially as demarcation was conducted earlier and many fear the next step could be demolition.
Residents point out that the area does not consist of informal settlements but multi-storey residential houses, many of which were built decades ago. Several families claim they have lived there for 40 to 50 years, spanning multiple generations, and have invested their life savings—often through bank loans—into constructing their homes.
Elderly residents said they undertook land filling and structural work over the years to make the area habitable and are still repaying housing loans. “If the house goes, how do we repay the loan and where do we live?” one resident asked.
Adding to the anger is the claim that residents approached the Chief Minister seeking relief, but instead of a resolution, the pace of official action intensified after the meeting. Locals allege that notices began appearing immediately after they raised their grievances.
Residents have also questioned the necessity of demolishing homes when alternative solutions exist. They argue that by redesigning the divider, drain, and unused footpath, 20 to 23 feet of space could be created for road expansion without displacing families.
Many residents insist they possess valid ownership documents, registrations dating back to the early 1970s, and revenue records. Despite this, they claim they are being asked to submit documents without clear legal clarity mentioned in the notices.
With no clear communication from civic authorities or elected representatives, residents say they feel unheard and vulnerable. “If people no longer live here, who is the road being widened for?” one resident asked, summing up the prevailing sentiment.
As uncertainty continues, locals are demanding transparent consultation, alternative planning, and assurance against forced displacement, warning that the situation could escalate if their concerns remain unaddressed.
