GS1The Indian Express · Editorial
The long goodbye to Shahjahanabad
Editorial on conserving Old Delhi’s layered urban heritage amid redevelopment pressure
SP
Samachar Pathshala Desk
Published 16 Jul 2026 · 1 min
Key takeaways
- Old Delhi is losing its historic identity under redevelopment, changing urban form, and commercial pressure.
- Shahjahanabad is the historic walled city of Delhi and remains a living heritage settlement.
The Indian Express editorial argues that Shahjahanabad, also known as Old Delhi, is losing its historic identity under pressure from redevelopment, changing urban form, and commercialisation. Old Delhi is a living heritage city whose architecture, culture, and social life are being eroded by modern interventions.
Why this is relevant for UPSC
The UPSC angle
GS1GS2GS3Essay
Heritage conservation versus redevelopment in historic cities
UPSC can frame Shahjahanabad as a case study in balancing urban renewal, heritage conservation, and livability. The issue links static themes such as cultural heritage, town planning, and the protection of living historic settlements.
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