Delhi Government Advances Plans for New Prisons to Decongest Tihar

Updated: May 22, 2025 16:06

Image Source : The Indian Express

The Delhi government has initiated discussions with multiple land-owning agencies to secure land for new prison facilities, aiming to alleviate overcrowding at Tihar Jail. The move follows Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s budget announcement outlining a new scheme to shift the existing Tihar complex to alternative locations.

Key Developments in the Prison Expansion Plan

Land Acquisition Efforts: Officials from the Home Department have begun meetings with agencies such as the Land and Development Office, Revenue Department, and Delhi Development Authority to identify suitable land for new prison complexes.
Site Visits: Authorities will conduct inspections at Tihar Jail to assess current conditions and explore immediate decongestion measures while new facilities are developed.
Overcrowding Concerns: Tihar Jail, one of India’s largest prison complexes, currently houses over 12,945 inmates—more than double its official capacity of 5,200.

New High-Security Prison in Narela

Construction Plans: The government has initiated the tendering process for a high-security prison in Narela, designed to accommodate high-risk inmates.
Architectural Design: The facility will draw inspiration from the historic Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, ensuring enhanced security measures.
Funding Allocation: The Centre has committed ₹100 crore for the project, with an additional ₹40 crore to be provided by the Delhi government.

Future Expansion and Strategic Goals

Additional Prison Complexes: Beyond Narela, the government is exploring other locations for new prison facilities, with discussions already underway.
Long-Term Vision: The initiative aims to modernize Delhi’s correctional infrastructure, improving inmate management and rehabilitation programs.
Implementation Timeline: Authorities are targeting a 21-month completion period for the Narela prison, with plans to relocate 250-300 high-risk inmates upon its readiness.

Future Outlook

The Delhi government’s proactive approach to prison expansion underscores its commitment to addressing overcrowding and enhancing security. As discussions progress, stakeholders will monitor developments to ensure efficient execution of the proposed initiatives.

Source: Hindustan Times, Delhi Government Home Department, Economic Times.

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