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Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti: Introduction

The enclave of Hazrat Nizamuddin in the heart of New Delhi is a medieval village or basti (settlement) named after the highly venerated 14th century Sufi saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya. Home to a number of medieval and Mughal era tombs and monuments, the principal attraction in the Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti is the Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya, an important site of pilgrimage. The Dargah is a significant repository of the cultural heritage of Sufi philosophy and spirituality and its veneration through the vernacular poetry of Amir Khusrau and the stirring Qawwali performances. In keeping with the pluralistic Sufi traditions millions from across all faiths visit the Dargah annually.

The project components in the Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti commenced following a consultative process with the local community identifying priority areas for a series of development initiatives to improve the overall urban environment of the 700 year old basti, to enhance its cultural and social identity and offer a better quality of life to its residents.

Nizamuddin Basti: Living with heritage

Hazrat Nizamuddin Basti: Project Objectives

Urban Context
The urban village of Nizamuddin Basti, west of Humayun’s Tomb, is a compact, self-contained district with a high count of landmark structures dating to the Mughal and pre-Mughal periods. Shrines, mausoleums and baoli (step well) in Nizamuddin are located within relatively short distances of one another and are well integrated with a vibrant community centred around the dargah of the 14th century Sufi Saint Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya.

Project Components
The project aims to restore the status of Nizamuddin Basti in its historical, spiritual, and artistic and religious context. The rehabilitation of civic spaces, improved amenities and infrastructure like streets, parks and public toilets will provide a healthier and better living environment for the residents and visitors. Interventions in education, healthcare, environment and livelihood will augment the socio-economic development of the area. Under the project, greater employment opportunities for women and youth are being generated through enhanced education and vocational training facilities. The project seeks to integrate conservation, socio-economic development and urban and environmental development objectives in consultation with the local community.

The project seeks to integrate conservation, socio-economic development and urban and environmental development objectives in consultation with the local community.

Evolving and Demand Based Interventions
The core project components have been identified in consultation with the local residents and intended project beneficiaries. The project plan has identified interventions under each component based on demands articulated during consultations with local residents and needs identified through baselines, sector specific studies. Indicative time frame for various interventions, expected outcomes, budget estimates, source of funds are being prepared on an annual basis taking into consideration the evolving scenario and need based requirements. These plans are discussed with the intended beneficiaries, local community, MCD functionaries and at the meetings of constituted Project Committee.