Shunned By Ministers, 'Jinxed' Delhi Bungalow To Be Disaster Management HQ

A property long surrounded by whispers of "bad luck" in Delhi's political circles could soon see a complete reset. The Delhi government is planning to turn 33 Shamnath Marg into the capital's first dedicated headquarters for the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), replacing the decades-old colonial bungalow on the site.

Top officials indicated the move is part of a broader push to put underutilised government properties to productive use, while strengthening Delhi's disaster preparedness infrastructure.

From Power Address To 'Jinxed' Tag

Built in the 1920s, the two-storey bungalow in Civil Lines once served as an official residence of the Chief Minister. Over time, however, it picked up a reputation as an "unlucky" address in political and bureaucratic circles.

Former Chief Ministers like Chaudhary Brahm Prakash and Madan Lal Khurana were associated with politically turbulent phases linked to the property.

In 2003, a minister residing there fell seriously ill and later died.

Since then, several senior leaders and top bureaucrats have reportedly declined to occupy the residence

Despite its prime location, the property has remained largely vacant for years.

What The Government Is Planning

Officials said the existing structure is proposed to be cleared to make way for a modern, purpose-built DDMA headquarters, something the authority currently does not have in Delhi.

The proposed facility is expected to include:

• A centralised command-and-control centre
• Dedicated spaces for emergency coordination
• Modern infrastructure for disaster planning and response

Sources added that consultations may be carried out during the design phase as part of the redevelopment process.

Why This Matters

Delhi currently lacks a standalone building for the DDMA, with its functions spread across offices. A dedicated headquarters is expected to improve coordination during emergencies, streamline response mechanisms and strengthen overall preparedness.

The move also aligns with the government's broader effort to unlock idle public assets and convert them into functional infrastructure.

If cleared, the transformation of 33 Shamnath Marg would mark a shift in both purpose and perception, from a property long avoided to a key hub for managing crises in the national capital.