Delhi CM approves Rs 3,700 cr for MCD

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced special financial assistance of Rs 3,700 crore for the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to strengthen civic infrastructure and essential public services across the national Capital.

Proposals worth around Rs 1,330 crore have been prepared for the financial year 2026-27 for paving and development of roads under the MCD’s jurisdiction. These include roads with a width of less than 60 feet, which fall under the Corporation. The fund was released to strengthen road infrastructure, sanitation systems, municipal schools and civic facilities across the city. A major component of the assistance focuses on road infrastructure. The projects cover the construction, repair and strengthening of nearly 1,000 kilometres of roads.

In a parallel effort to modernise sanitation, the Government has approved a long-term project worth around Rs 2,300 crore under a 10-year Operational Expenditure (OPEX) model. The initiative aims to improve cleaning systems and reduce dust and waste on city roads.

The move is aimed at making the national Capital cleaner, more developed and pollution-free. The chief minister said the support reflects the Government’s commitment to empowering local bodies and promoting decentralised governance. Allocations have also been made under the Chief Minister’s Development Fund (CMDF).

The Government expects this to help curb dust pollution, especially during the post-monsoon months of October and November when pollution levels in Delhi usually rise. The Chief Minister has directed officials to ensure that all major road improvement works are completed by September 30, 2026. She asked departments to fast-track administrative procedures and ensure transparency in the tendering process. She also stressed the need for advance planning so that projects are completed on time.

Under the project, 70 additional mechanical road sweeping machines will be deployed. These will operate along with existing machines to increase cleaning coverage. In addition, 1,000 electric litter pickers will be introduced to make sanitation work more efficient and environmentally friendly. The CM described the initiative as a sustainable step towards pollution control.

In the education sector, an additional Rs 50 crore has been approved for the upgradation of MCD primary schools. The funds will be used to improve school infrastructure, upgrade sanitation facilities and modernise classrooms. The aim is to create a better learning environment for students studying in municipal schools.

Another Rs 50 crore has been allocated for the repair and upgradation of community buildings managed by the MCD. Nearly 298 such buildings, mostly located in smaller colonies, are used by economically weaker sections for weddings and social events. The Government said improving these facilities is essential for supporting local communities.

CM unveils Rs 1,075 crore projects in East Delhi

New Delhi: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 1,075 crore in East Delhi. The infrastructure push aimed at easing traffic congestion and tackling chronic waterlogging in the Trans-Yamuna region.

The projects, launched at Ramlila Ground in Vivek Vihar, will be executed by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department. Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Harsh Malhotra was present at the event along with several MLAs and senior leaders from East Delhi.

A key component of the package is the strengthening and improvement of 236 roads at an estimated cost of Rs 782 crore. The works are expected to improve traffic flow and ensure safer and smoother commuting for residents. In addition, five-foot overbridges will be constructed at a cost of around Rs 21 crore to enhance pedestrian safety. Under the Irrigation and Flood Control Department, projects worth approximately Rs 272 crore will be undertaken. These include reconstruction of 10 drains, improvement of three drains, construction of 24 boundary walls, and development of 18 roads and bridges. The Government said these works will significantly improve rainwater drainage and reduce waterlogging in vulnerable areas.

The CM said strong infrastructure is essential for balanced development in Delhi. She said residents of the Trans-Yamuna region had long awaited proper development of roads, lanes, and drainage systems. “The foundation-laying of projects worth nearly Rs 1,075 crore is a historic step towards ending that prolonged wait,” she said, adding that the Government is committed to ensuring equitable development across the city.

Taking a swipe at previous Governments, the CM said that if basic issues such as broken roads, open drains, and inadequate public facilities persist after years in power, it reflects administrative failure. She said her government believes in delivering results rather than engaging in politics. “No part of Delhi will remain deprived of development,” she said, emphasising that bridging the divide between the two banks of the Yamuna remains a priority.

The CM said the Government has adopted a new work culture focused on regular monitoring, time-bound implementation, and transparency. She directed officials to ensure that all projects are completed within stipulated timelines and adhere to high-quality standards.