The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is expediting the Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan, launched in December 2023 by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, to enhance infrastructure in nearly 200 urbanized villages. With a dedicated budget of INR 407 crore, the project focuses on roads, drainage systems, and streetlights, benefiting areas like Najafgarh, Narela, South Delhi, and West Delhi. Despite initial election-related delays, 28 projects have commenced, primarily in Najafgarh. The initiative aims to improve quality of life for millions of residents, with 349 projects approved by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and an overarching goal of creating a more connected city.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is accelerating efforts to complete hundreds of projects aimed at improving basic infrastructure in these areas. This initiative, called the Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan, was launched in December 2023 by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena with an ambitious goal of improving nearly 200 urbanized villages.
The project focuses on three key areas: roads, drainage systems, and streetlights. A total of 349 projects have been approved by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) with a dedicated budget of INR 407 crore. These projects will benefit villages across Najafgarh, Narela, South Delhi, and West Delhi zones, home to millions of residents.
While initial delays due to elections impacted the project rollout, work has now begun on 28 projects. These initial projects primarily focus on road and drainage improvements in Najafgarh. Additional projects are expected to be awarded soon, with a focus on completing the remaining 341 projects as quickly as possible.
The initiative will address specific needs in various zones. For example, 16 projects in West Delhi will focus on strengthening roads in areas like Basai Darapur (population: approx. 15,000), Phirni Road, Madipur village (population: approx. 30,000), and Chowkandi Nagar. Additionally, drainage improvements are planned for Bali Nagar, Rattan Park, and Madipur village.
Residents in East Delhi, particularly those in Khajoori Khas, will also see improvements in drainage systems and road construction or renovation.
Many villages have long struggled with inadequate street lighting. The Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan aims to address this by installing new lights and improving existing systems. In Narela zone, at least 14 projects have been identified, including installations in Kanjhawala village (population: approx. 200,000), Nangal Thakran village, and Sultanpur Dabas. Similarly, 32 projects are planned for Najafgarh zone to eliminate dark spots in areas like Bamnoli village and Kapashera ward.
The Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan is a significant investment in the future of Delhi. By improving basic infrastructure in villages, the initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for millions of residents and create a more vibrant and connected city overall. The project is part of a larger INR 800 crore effort by DDA to rejuvenate nearly 200 urbanized villages in the capital. This broader initiative will also address other critical areas like livelihoods, healthcare, and proper land use.