Delhi’s map set for big redraw: Two new districts to be added, Shahdara may be dissolved

The administrative setup of the national capital is set to witness a big change soon, as the Delhi government is preparing to approve the creation of two new districts. At present, the national capital has 11 districts, but once this proposal is cleared, the number will increase to 13.

According to the officials, this step is being taken to strengthen governance, reduce the workload on existing districts, and make public service delivery more efficient.

The senior officials explained that dividing the city into more districts will help in smoother administration and better coordination between departments, News18 reported.

Since each district will cover a smaller area, it will be easier for officers to manage day-to-day issues. This will ensure that citizens’ grievances are addressed more quickly.

Another important aspect of the move is that district magistrates (DMs) in Delhi will get powers similar to their counterparts in other states. At present, there are some differences in the level of authority enjoyed by Delhi’s district officers, and this restructuring aims to correct those gaps.

With the addition of two new districts, the boundaries of several existing ones are expected to change. According to the News18 report, one Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) zone may be converted into a new district. At the same time, Shahdara district might be removed altogether. Adjustments in the boundaries and names of South-East Delhi and Outer Delhi are also being considered as part of this exercise.

The government said citizens will be the biggest beneficiaries of the new arrangement. Smaller districts would mean closer supervision, faster file movement, and more effective monitoring. Importantly, residents will now be able to approach the District Magistrate directly to register complaints, reducing bureaucratic delays. Officials believe this will reduce disputes over jurisdiction and end confusion between different departments.

Once the restructuring takes place, all key offices in the area, including the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of the MCD zone, as well as officers from the Delhi Jal Board, Public Works Department, Social Welfare Department, and other agencies, will function under the supervision of the District Magistrate. Officials said this model would make coordination seamless and simplify processes for citizens.

Though the final details of the new districts have not yet been made public, News18 reported that work on redrawing Delhi’s administrative map has already started.