Mundka is a census town and village in the West Delhi district of Delhi. It is known for its historical, industrial and infrastructural significance. The name is believed to have originated from the Sanskritword "Muṇḍa" (मुण्ड), meaning "head", with local folklore linking it to the beheading of Shishupala by Krishna, where his head allegedly fell into Shishupal or Shishuwala pond[3]. It also holds cultural importance with landmarks like the Dada Bhero Temple. Its neighbouring villages are Nangloi Jat, Bakkarwala,Tikri Kalan, Rani Khera (Delhi), Rasoolpur and Ghevra.
Mundka, a village in present-day West Delhi, holds historical significance during the British era, primarily as a rural settlement that was part of the larger administrative framework of British India. Its history during this period is intertwined with the agricultural, social, and political dynamics of the region.
Mundka was primarily an agricultural village during British Raj, with farming being the main livelihood for its residents. The fertile lands of the region were used for growing crops such as wheat, barley, and millet. The British administration introduced land revenue systems, such as the Permanent Settlement or Ryotwari system in parts of India, impacting rural areas like Mundka. Land taxes imposed on farmers often caused economic strain.The British period saw the introduction of railways and road networks across India. Mundka benefited from its proximity to Delhi, the administrative center. The development of railway lines (such as the Delhi-Rohtak line) in the vicinity connected rural areas to urban centers, influencing trade and mobility. Mundka Police Station ( now Nangloi ) was established on October 29, 1861, making it one of the earliest police stations in Delhi. This establishment followed the enactment of the Indian Police Act of 1861[7] by the British administration, which aimed to structure and regulate policing across India. The first five police stations inaugurated in Delhi under this act were Sadar Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Mehrauli, Kotwali and Mundka.[8]
Etymology and Name
The name is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word "Muṇḍa" (मुण्ड), meaning "head", with local folklore linking it to the beheading of Shishupala by Krishna, where his head allegedly fell into Shishupal Pond in Mundka. The story has been passed down through generations. It could indicate that the area held religious or mythological significance in ancient times. Mundka being named after the beheading of Shishupal by Lord Krishna, with his head falling into a pond in the area, appears to be a local oral tradition. However, there is no widely documented evidence to support this specific narrative.
Dada Bhairav (Bharo) Temple
Dada Bhairav Temple is a well-known temple in the village Dada Bhairav is regarded as the Kuladevata(ancestral deity) of the people of Mundka. Many local families have deep-rooted faith in Dada Bhairav and consider him their protector and guiding force. The temple plays a vital role in their religious and cultural traditions, with devotees offering prayers for prosperity, protection, and the well-being of their families. During the annual Bhandara (community kitchen) at Dada Bhairav Temple, free food is distributed to all devotees as part of a sacred tradition. This community feast is organized as an act of seva (selfless service), where devotees prepare and serve prasad or Prasada (blessed food) to visitors, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, receives a meal as a symbol of devotion and generosity. The temple's cultural relevance is further highlighted by its association with prominent local figures. For instance, after his electoral victory in 2025, Parvesh Verma, a notable political leader, visited his ancestral village of Mundka and offered prayers at the Dada Bhairav Temple, underscoring its importance in the community.[9]
Demographics
According to the 2011 India census,[10] Mundka had a population of 57,590. Males constituted 56% of the population and females 44%. Mundka had an average literacy rate of 78%, higher than the national average of 74.04%. Male literacy was 75%, and female literacy was 65%. At that time, 16% of the population was under six years of age. The village falls under the 8th Assembly of Delhi.
The Mundka station of Delhi Metro was inaugurated on 2 April 2010. The 15.1km (9.4mi) corridor, from Mundka to Inderlok, serves thousands of people daily. The corridor, also called the Green Line, connects Inderlok (on Dilshad Garden– Rithala line) and Kirti Nagar (on Dwarka– Noida City Centre / Vaishali line). It is 22km from Connaught place (Delhi) and 10km from Bahadurgarh (Haryana).[11][12]Mundka Industrial Area metro station, a major hub for factories and warehouses in West Delhi. The station is elevated and provides convenient access for workers and businesses in the region. It enhances connectivity to nearby areas like Nangloi, Peeragarhi, and Bahadurgarh, making commuting easier for industrial workers and visitors.
Railway Connectivity (Indian Railways)
Mundka railway station, located in Delhi, was built during the British era as part of the Delhi-Rohtak railway line. The Delhi-Rohtak railway line was established in the late 19th century, around 1876–1884, under the British Indian Railways. Mundka station primarily served as a small stop for local trains and freight transport. Later, with urban expansion, it became part of the Delhi Suburban Railway network. Now, Mundka Railway Station, designated by the station code MQC, is situated in the West Delhi district of Delhi, India. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Northern Railway zone of Indian Railways. It has Double Electric-Line Track.This station has two platforms and offers basic amenities like a waiting room and ticket counters.[13]
Road Connectivity
Mundka enjoys good road connectivity with major parts of Delhi and Haryana. The presence of National Highway 9 (India) and Outer Ring Road makes it a well-connected locality for industrial and residential purposes. NH-9 (Rohtak Road), previously known as NH-10, is a vital highway that runs through Mundka. It connects Delhi to Rohtak, Hisar, and other parts of Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan. This road is a key route for freight transportation and daily commuters. The Outer Ring Road, also part of NH-48, is one of the most critical roads in Delhi. It provides seamless connectivity from Mundka to other parts of Delhi such as Punjabi Bagh, Pitampura, and Dhaula Kuan. The upcoming Dwarka Expressway and Urban Extension Road-II[14] will enhance connectivity to Dwarka, Gurugram, and IGI Airport. With upcoming road development projects, commuting from Mundka is expected to become even more efficient in the future.
Bus Connectivity ( DTC )
Mundka has strong bus connectivity with various parts of Delhi and neighboring areas like Bahadurgarh, Nangloi, Peeragarhi, Punjabi Bagh, Dwarka, and Connaught Place. Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and private buses operate regularly, ensuring easy and affordable travel for commuters.
114STL
Mundka - New Delhi Railway Station
Nangloi, Peeragarhi, Punjabi Bagh
123
Mundka - Uttam Nagar Terminal
Nangloi, Paschim Vihar, Janakpuri
123A
Mundka - Najafgarh
Tikri Kalan, Dwarka Mor
969
Mundka - Rohini Sector 22
Peeragarhi, Mangolpuri, Sultanpuri
RTP
Mundka - Bahadurgarh
Tikri Kalan, Ashoda, Haryana Border
920
Mundka - ISBT Kashmere Gate
Karol Bagh, Red Fort, Mori Gate
TMS (Ring Road Bus)
Circular Route around Delhi
Outer Ring Road, Dhaula Kuan, AIIMS
Most of these buses run every 15-30 minutes, ensuring convenient transport.
Drainage
Mundka, like many parts of West Delhi, struggles with poor drainage and waterlogging issues, especially during the monsoon season.[15] Rapid industrialization and construction have led to encroachment on natural drainage paths. Many areas still lack a well-connected drainage network, leading to water stagnation. Garbage dumping and lack of regular cleaning cause drains to overflow during rains. Waterlogging on Roads( NH 9 ) often get flooded, making commuting difficult particularly along the Rohtak Road stretch between Nangloi Metro Station and Tikri Border. This section has been notorious for severe waterlogging and traffic congestion, adversely affecting daily commuters and residents in areas like Nangloi, Mundka, Ghevra, and Tikri.[16]
Mundka Fire Tragedy
The 2022 Delhi fire was a devastating incident that took place on May 13, 2022, in a four-story commercial building near Mundka metro station in West Delhi, India. The fire, which is believed to have been caused by a Short circuit, originated on the first floor, where a CCTV and router manufacturing company was operating. The flames spread rapidly, trapping workers and office employees inside the building, leading to a significant loss of life and injuries.[17]
Casualties and Rescue Operations
At least 27 people lost their lives, while more than 12 others were injured. Many of the victims were women employees who were unable to escape due to the absence of emergency exits. Over 50 people were rescued, and multiple fire tenders were deployed to control the blaze. The intensity of the fire and the presence of flammable materials inside the building made rescue efforts challenging.[18]
Safety Violations and Negligence
Investigations revealed serious violations of fire safety norms. The building did not have proper fire exits or a fire safety clearance from authorities. It had only one staircase, which made it difficult for people to evacuate. The owners of the company operating on the first floor, Harish and Varun Goel, were arrested for alleged negligence and violation of safety norms. The building owner, was also detained for renting out space without obtaining the necessary fire safety approvals.[19]
Government Response and Aftermath
Following the tragedy, the Delhi government ordered a detailed investigation and announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. The incident raised serious concerns about fire safety regulations and building code violations in Delhi’s commercial areas. Authorities also launched an inspection drive to identify and shut down similar unsafe establishments.[20]
The Mundka fire tragedy served as a grim reminder of the importance of enforcing strict fire safety norms and regular inspections in industrial and commercial buildings to prevent such disasters in the future.
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