What DUAC is Imagining Delhi


The DUAC showcased ideas, possibilities and proposals  initiated by the Task Forces  in a major exhibition of work in progress, entitled Imagining Delhi Catalogue. The exhibition was organized through TVB School of Habitat Studies. The Indian Institute of Architects, and the Association of Metropolitan Development Authorities also contributed in many ways. The exhibition commenced at the India Habitat Centre from 25th April 2006.

The Exhibition themes were presented in a way as to be easily understood by non-architects emphasizing how both small and more ambitious interventions could help make the city a more humane one. It emerged as almost self-evident that Delhi has the capacity to grow out of its own DNA, the genetic material of its culture, society, history and urban fabric, and that it is not  necessary to emulate unsustainable models developed in other countries. Delhi has its own natural heritage, its rich collection of built form, and vibrant populations with great entrepreneurial skill.


The 72 panels of the Exhibition illustrated and explained specific possibilities connected with  the following themes :-

  1. Open Space
  2. Water
  3. Built Form
  4. Moving around the City
  5. Streets for Everyone
  6. Bringing the City together
  7. Participation

The dignitaries who were present at the inaugural function at India Habitat Centre  included Shri S. Jaipal Reddy, Minister for Urban Development, Shri B.L. Joshi, Lt. Governor of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister and Shri Anil Baijal, Secretary (Urban Development), Ministry of Urban Development.

Issues concerning the Capital were discussed in a series of seminars each evening during the Exhibition. These sessions attracted large and enthusiastic audiences including  a considerable number of students from the schools of architecture in Delhi.

  1. Bringing the City Together
  2. Delhi’s Landscape
  3. Transforming the Built Environment : Case of Central Delhi
  4. Making Heritage Work
  5. Water for Delhi
  6. The future of Delhi’s Transport
  7. The other Half of Delhi : the case of East Delhi
  8. Streets for Everyone
  9. Public Participation
  10. What Constitutes Delhi’s Genius ?

These programmes suggested the feasibility of a constructive tripartite relationship between professionals, government bodies and citizens to chalk out a sustainable future for Delhi. The Commission proposes to follow up the schemes recommended in the Exhibition, and the process of interaction with citizens, and is confident that it will receive the support of the concerned agencies.