How does the layout of New Delhi differ from the streets of Old Delhi?

The layout of Delhi is characterized by a distinct contrast between the historical patterns of Old Delhi and the planned, colonial-era design of New Delhi.1

Old Delhi

The street network of Old Delhi reflects the defense requirements of an earlier era. Its layout is defined by:1
* Irregularity: Most streets are irregular in their direction, length, and width.1
* Intricate Matrix: The area consists of narrow, winding paths, alleys, culs-de-sac, and byways.1
* Accessibility: Due to this dense, complex structure, much of Old Delhi is accessible primarily to pedestrian traffic.1
* Historical Gates: The city remains largely confined within the walls of the 17th-century capital, Shahjahanabad, with several original gates still standing.2

New Delhi

In contrast, New Delhi was designed in the early 20th century as a spacious administrative center. Its layout features:1
* Order and Openness: The plan emphasizes a sense of order, characterized by wide, straight avenues lined with double rows of trees.1
* Geometric Design: The city follows a garden-city pattern based on hexagons and a diagonal road network.3
* Central Axis: The city is anchored by the broad central avenue known as the Kartavya Path, which connects major government landmarks.1