New Delhi. The 162-year-old historic Town Hall in the heart of Chandni Chowk is all set to regain its lost glory. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is close to finalising an ambitious restoration plan for the iconic heritage structure. A detailed report for the revamp is currently being prepared by a consultant, and officials indicate that the project may begin soon.

Zonal Office May Return — Administrative Buzz Could Fill the Halls Again

The MCD is seriously considering shifting its City Sadar–Paharganj Zonal Office to the Town Hall building.
The heritage structure earlier served as the headquarters of the unified MCD from 2010 to 2021 and may once again become a major administrative hub.

Deteriorating Condition Raises Alarm

The current Sadar Office building near Hindu College is in poor condition—cracked walls, falling plaster, and limited working space have pushed the civic body to explore alternatives.

A consultant was appointed in August to assess the extent of structural repairs needed and estimate the overall cost.
The consultancy fee has been fixed at ₹18 lakh, while the upcoming DPR will include structural strengthening, full-scale renovation and an adaptive reuse plan for the entire complex.

Superficial G20 Repairs Not Enough

Ahead of last year’s G20 Summit, the corporation had undertaken whitewashing and minor repairs.
However, officials now admit that the building requires comprehensive restoration.

“The ceiling plaster in the main hall has collapsed in several areas. For safety reasons, certain sections of the building have been sealed off,” an MCD official said.

Built Between 1860–63 — A Symbol of Old Delhi’s Architectural Pride

Designed in the Indo-colonial style during the British era, Town Hall spans nearly 13,753 sq. m and holds Grade-A heritage status.
Over the years, proposals to convert it into a hotel, museum or restaurant complex have been floated, but none materialised.

Cultural Organisations Showed Interest, But Plans Stalled

MCD previously collaborated with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture on conservation and archive-related initiatives, which could not move forward.

The Ministry of Culture, too, once expressed interest in taking the structure on a 33-year lease to develop it into a world-class museum and cultural centre.
However, disagreements over revenue-sharing left the proposal in limbo.

What Lies Ahead for the Heritage Landmark?

According to officials,
“Town Hall’s heritage value cannot be ignored. Any future use of this structure must honour its historical significance while serving public interest.”

A Fresh Beginning for an Old Icon

If approved, the move could once again fill Town Hall’s corridors with official activity—files shuffling, public footfall, administrative bustle and the daily hum of civic operations.

The proposed revamp is expected to not just restore the 162-year-old landmark but also position it as a shining example of how heritage structures can be preserved while serving modern civic needs.