New Delhi: Constructing skywalks at two traffic junctions, revamping two markets, upgrading infrastructure in slum clusters, developing world-class public toilets and ensuring 24×7 water supply are among the focus projects in the New Delhi Municipal Council budget for 2025-26.
Presenting his first budget after taking charge last month, NDMC chairman Keshav Chandra announced no increase in property tax for the new fiscal. While pointing out that 24×7 water supply in one area was at an advanced stage, Chandra said skywalks would be constructed for pedestrian convenience and safety at Gate No.1 of AIIMS on Aurobindo Marg and at Gate No 5 of Delhi High Court on Sher Shah Road.
“A project for the development of the roundabout opposite the new Parliament building is in process and will be completed in FY 2025-26. Upgrading all existing public and community toilets with eco-friendly features is also proposed. We also have a plan for constructing public toilets of international standard at Khan Market and Sarojini Nagar Market,” said Chandra.
The redevelopment of two markets — Prithviraj Market and Akbar Bhavan Market —are also on the anvil.
The budget envisages the establishment of a project monitoring cell and the implementation of a Jan Vishwas Scheme to reduce regulatory compliance burden and decriminalisation under the NDMC Act, 1994. “Various violations under the NDMC Act invite severe penalties and punishments. We aim to minimise punishment to ease business,” said an official.
The budget proposed artificial intelligence to address issues such as mosquito-borne diseases (dengue, malaria, chikungunya), waterlogging and unexpected power faults. “Sites from where complaints about mosquito breeding and waterlogging are repeatedly received will be captured through AI and action will be taken,” said NDMC vice-chairman Kuljeet Chahal.
Other proposals include installing mist sprayers on electrical poles, expanding night-cleaning operations across Lutyens’ Delhi commercial areas and public spaces.
The proposals also focus on achieving complete renewable energy utilisation by May 2026 and setting up an innovation laboratory for students. “Under the PM-Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme, consultation with TERI is in progress to assess the possibility of rooftop solar installations on govt and private buildings. This is meant to reduce power bills for the poor and middle class,” said Chandra.
Under the concept of vikas bhi, virasat bhi, NDMC proposes to build creative hubs for artists and performers and hold monthly cultural festivals with ambassadors of G-20 countries. “While the work on setting up the Veerangna Museum at the restored Gole Market Heritage Building is in progress, planning is under way for upgrading adjoining areas and to complete the project in 2025-26,” said Chahal.
For the safety of women and other passengers, NDMC has initiated a Safe City Project in collaboration with Delhi Police with shared CCTV feeds. The work for laying the lease line is at the awarding stage and additional lights are being installed.
The budget briefly highlighted the projects taken up in previous years and efforts made to ensure progress on them, such as the parking area management plan, rehabilitation of sewer lines, Shivaji Stadium and revamping green areas.
