CM Rekha unveils action plan to tackle pressing urban challenges in city

In a sweeping review of Delhi’s civic infrastructure and safety mechanisms, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday unveiled a concrete action plan to address some of the Capital’s most pressing urban challenges. Chairing a high-level meeting at the Delhi secretariat, CM Gupta set firm timelines for resolving long-standing issues such as dark spots, traffic bottlenecks, shelter home oversight, waterlogging and air pollution, with a clear message to the officials—ground-level results must replace paper-based planning.

Among the key announcements was the plan to eliminate 4,000 identified dark spots across the city, a move aimed at enhancing safety, particularly for women and children. Faulty lights at nearly 1,900 locations will be repaired within 10 days, and junior engineers will conduct routine inspections to ensure their functionality. Areas with poor mobile network coverage have also been flagged for urgent attention.

The government also aims to unclog 233 major traffic congestion points, with directives issued to the Delhi Police, PWD and Transport Department to fast-track solutions. Of the 123 points under the PWD’s charge, 41 have already been cleared and the rest are expected to be addressed by June.

In a push for better welfare of the homeless, CM Gupta instructed DMs and SDMs to carry out regular inspection of shelter homes and verify the identity of residents. Delhi Police will also monitor these facilities continuously. The government has pledged to ensure dignified living conditions in these shelters, including sanitation, food, potable water, healthcare and safety.

Waterlogging issues, a recurring problem during Delhi’s monsoon, have also been targeted. The authorities have been directed to resolve issues at 445 vulnerable locations within 15 days, with agencies like the PWD, MCD and NDMC asked to coordinate.

To strengthen law enforcement, the Forensic Science Laboratory will be expanded and recruitment for vacant posts expedited. Meanwhile, a citywide crackdown on polluting vehicles will begin soon, targeting diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15.

In a move to promote citizen engagement, Jan Samitis (public committees) will be formed at police station and district levels to collect feedback and suggestions from the public.

Speaking to media agencies, CM Gupta also announced that the government will soon introduce a transparent, foolproof excise policy. Incorporating using best practices from other states, the policy will focus on boosting revenue without social disruption—addressing the gaps left by the scrapped 2021-22 excise policy of the previous AAP regime.

Delhi