The Delhi government’s power department has proposed a large-scale redevelopment of the defunct Rajghat Thermal Power Plant, drawing inspiration from global redevelopment projects such as New York’s High
Line, London’s Battersea Power Station, Germany’s Zollverein Coal Mine and Toronto’s Distillery District.
The plan aims to transform the 28-acre site, which has remained unused for over a decade, into a vibrant hub for nightlife and recreation, featuring cafes, concerts, cultural events, and leisure facilities.
According to officials, the proposal is currently at the planning stage. Once finalised, it will be placed before the Cabinet for approval and financial sanction, following which a detailed project report will be prepared. The department studied redevelopment models from India and abroad to shape the proposal, The Indian Express reported.
Cafes, Concerts, Culture: Big Redevelopment Plan For Defunct Plant
Delhi Power Minister Ashish Sood said the city lacks dedicated nightlife spaces and that redeveloping the Rajghat site could boost tourism, generate revenue and reduce energy consumption by repurposing existing infrastructure. Officials said the location, situated in the heart of the city, offers significant potential for developing a night economy.
The proposal includes developing a promenade along the Yamuna with solar-powered LED lighting, benches made from recycled materials and solar-charged pedal boats to ensure zero-emission operations. Inspired by London’s Battersea Power Station, plans also include a modular open-air plaza near the plant’s chimney, with a stage and tiered seating for 500 to 1,000 people, capable of hosting concerts, theatre performances and cultural events, the report stated.
Weekly entertainment programmes such as stand-up comedy, Sufi and Qawwali evenings, Bollywood dance nights and DJ events have been proposed, along with a “Delhi Nights” initiative in collaboration with Delhi Tourism. This would include ticketed entry and VIP zones, with prices ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 500, aimed at promoting night tourism.
Museum Planned In Proposed Project
The plan also proposes converting part of the plant into a museum showcasing Delhi’s power history or freedom fighters using augmented reality, touch screens and holographic displays, inspired by Germany’s Zollverein site. The museum could remain open late into the night and host school visits, with a nominal entry fee.
Additional features outlined in the proposal include rooftop cafés, night markets, VR gaming and laser tag zones, escape rooms, mini-golf, go-karting facilities, a 5D museum and a 50-metre skydeck. Officials said 70 per cent of the land belongs to the Delhi government, with the remaining under the Delhi Development Authority.
The redevelopment is intended to cater to all age groups, with affordable entry fees and combo passes. Hospitality chains may be brought in on 10-year lease agreements, with the government retaining a 40 per cent revenue share. Officials added that if the proposal gets approval, the Delhi government may urge the Delhi Metro to run its trains until 1 am.
