Plans afoot to give Delhi a makeover

The Centre, in order to ensure that Delhi does not suffer due to lack of an elected government, has drawn up a comprehensive plan to beautify the national capital.

The Centre, in order to ensure that Delhi does not suffer due to lack of an elected government, has drawn up a comprehensive plan to beautify the national capital.

Union urban development minister M Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday held a meeting with various stakeholders to discuss and work out the modalities of the beautification plan.

According to a senior official, the Delhi government has been asked to launch a cleanliness and beautification drive and monitor the work being done by the municipal corporations.

The official stated that Naidu emphasised on the need for concerted efforts to ensure a ‘clean and green’ Delhi to enhance the quality of life of residents.

“In the meeting, the minister pointed out that the general public perception of management of public places and utilities is very poor. That thought needs to be changed through a special drive,” said a ministry official.

Right from sprucing up the city, to cleaning of roads, to demolition, construction waste and encroachments being removed to drains being cleaned, the city will witness a major beautification drive. Officials further said that a Clean India Week will also be launched from September 25 and October 2.

In the meeting it was also discussed that the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) will undertake a tree plantation drive and improve streetscape through improved signages, street lighting, street furniture and public conveniences, besides revival of 59 water bodies and building of toilets on BOT (build-operate-transfer) basis in parks and public areas.

“The minister has also asked the Delhi government to evolve a strategy to address the issues relating to beggars, rag pickers, homeless and the migrants,” added the official.

Sources said that the lieutenant governor held a meeting on Tuesday, asking all the corporations and departments to draw up a plan of action and involve public representatives too. “Two committees will be constituted - one under the chairmanship of the chief secretary and another one at the legislative level. It will also involve the area councillors and the MLAs. A major publicity awareness campaign will also be launched to sensitise people about keeping the city clean,” said a senior Delhi government official.

Sources further said that apart from creating awareness, Delhi government has also been asked to notify sanitation bylaws to penalise people who litter in public spaces.