A city within city: Delhi Cantonment has grown into a bustling enclave but retains its old charm

DELHI Cantonment, once an isolated area away from the hustle and bustle of Delhi, has slowly being surrounded by the civilian population. However, the area still manages to retain its old charm.

- PRABHAT SHUKLA

Established in 1914 by the British, the Delhi Cantonment, like similar installations, was strategically located away from the city centre. Initially serving primarily military functions, it gradually evolved into a bustling enclave attracting civilians who provided various services to the soldiers. Today, it stands as a 'category I' cantonment, boasting a civilian population exceeding 50,000.

The cantonment encompasses schools, hospitals, air bases, the Army's Delhi area headquarters, the Directorate of General Defence Estates, and the Controller General of Defence Accounts.