Artisans hit by Dilli Haat fire to get Rs 5 lakh each, free stalls for 6 months

Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra has announced a relief and rehabilitation package for the artisans affected by the recent fire at Dilli Haat INA. The blaze, which broke out on the evening of April 30, gutted 24 artisan stalls, leaving many craftsmen without a source of livelihood.

Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra confirmed that a total relief package of Rs 1.20 crore will soon be disbursed among the 24 affected artisans. He stated that the approval for the Rs 5 lakh compensation per artisan—earlier committed by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta—has been granted, and the total amount will be released accordingly.

In addition to financial aid, the Delhi government has also announced logistical support as part of the rehabilitation plan. Mishra informed that the 24 artisans will be allotted stalls at Dilli Haat INA free of cost for a period of six months, from July 1 to December 31, 2025. The allotment of stalls will be done through a lottery process.

“Our government is committed to safeguarding the interests of artisans and providing them with the necessary support,” Mishra said.

Meanwhile, the minister also highlighted preparations for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra. He said the Rekha Gupta-led Delhi government has taken several steps to ensure a smooth experience for devotees. These include Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the accounts of Kanwar Yatra committees—eliminating middlemen—along with 1,200 units of free electricity for Kanwar camps and a 25 per cent reduction in the electricity security deposit.

Also Read: Why Dilli Haat remains a must-visit Delhi landmark after 30 years

Additionally, a ‘single-window’ system has been established to streamline the process for obtaining permissions to install Kanwar camps. “The devotees will be given a grand welcome in Delhi,” Mishra said, adding that these steps reflect the government’s commitment to facilitating religious events while ensuring transparency and efficiency.

(With inputs from PTI)