New Delhi, Jan 18 (IANS) Generating energy by converting mechanical stress of cars into electricity or renovating major heritage buildings into heritage hotels! The unique ideas do not belong to some high-profile science wizards but are the brainwaves of school kids here, who are proposing a face-lift for 'Dilli ki shan' Chandni Chowk!

At a competition 'Designing future cities' organised Monday by the Ministry of Science and Technology and software provider Bentley, students of Delhi suggested through models on how to decongest the walled city of Chandni Chowk.

'Our model proposes generating energy by converting mechanical stress of the cars on the road into electricity. We need to put certain crystals during the construction of the road, which will help generate energy from the friction of the motor vehicles wheels,' said Neha Ahooja, a student.

'We have also proposed in our concept that all major heritage buildings be converted into heritage hotels. Streetscaping and putting electric cables under ground and introducing electric rickshaws are some of our other solutions to make Chandni Chowk sustainable,' another student Shruti Sahrawat told IANS.

The model developed by Neha, Shruti and two of their friends of Amity International School in Saket was awarded first prize at the event.

Agrim Singh, another member of the team, said that they have also proposed to introduce heritage walks in the walled city -- a symbol of the Mughal era and known for the famous Jama Masjid -- but which is now in a state of despair.

'We have redrawn Chandni Chowk for 2020 and beyond. There are museums, parks, residential complexes and eco-friendly and sustainable transport systems. The aim was to retain the heritage charm while modernizing it,' Agrim explained.

He said they have proposed cycle tours for tourists and installation of solar panels for eco-friendly energy generation.

Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal, who had initiated this innovative competition during his previous stint as science minister, said: 'Such competitions help students to become innovative. Authorities involved in developing the walled city can also have a look at the model.'

'We want future cities as sustainable cities and students can help the country develop in this line,' said Sibal, who also represents Chandni Chowk in the Lok Sabha.