LG reviews Yamuna Bazar revamp, seeks spiritual tourism, flood mitigation push

New Delhi: Lieutenant governor TS Sandhu on Thursday held a meeting with officials of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to review the progress of rejuvenation and restoration works at the Yamuna Bazar and its ghats.“Held a detailed discussion with DDA officials on the rejuvenation and restoration of the historic Yamuna Bazar and its ghats. I have instructed officials to further refine the restoration plan by integrating elements of spiritual tourism, expanding green spaces and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local residents,” Sandhu said in a post on X.Officials also discussed the need for robust flood mitigation measures to ensure the long-term resilience of the area. Yamuna Bazar and adjoining localities regularly witness severe waterlogging during the monsoon, with floodwaters from the Yamuna entering low-lying areas near Loha Pul and Yamuna Bazar.The meeting took place after the recent visit of LG and chief minister Rekha Gupta to the ghat area, where officials were asked to prepare a comprehensive plan to revitalise the heritage stretch.During the inspection, both LG and CM reviewed the development of ghats, green zones, walking trails and biodiversity areas, and assessed the deployment of modern machinery for cleaning operations.It was noted that while Vasudev Ghat, developed by the DDA, was an eco-friendly public space, Yamuna Bazar Ghat needed further development. LG and CM said that while Vasudev Ghat — along with restored sites such as Asita, Baansera and the Yamuna Biodiversity Park — emerged as a sustainable public space, attracting thousands of visitors, several other ghats remained underdeveloped.Officials were directed to strengthen riverbank development, sanitation and infrastructure, with special emphasis on floodplain restoration, greenways, wetland conservation and biodiversity enhancement.