Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has mandated the completion of INR 364 crore worth of projects under the Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan by August. This initiative involves 416 projects, primarily managed by the DDA, focused on improving rural infrastructure including community centers, crematoriums, roads, and sports facilities. Saxena emphasized strict quality control, with District Magistrates overseeing progress and requiring photographic evidence for reports. Additionally, contractors must provide a five-year warranty on their work. The initiative also includes significant upgrades to crematoriums to ensure environmentally friendly practices and dignified services.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has mandated the completion of ongoing projects worth over INR 364 crore under the ambitious Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan by August this year. This decision came following a comprehensive review meeting held with key agencies including the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) department, and the Public Works Department (PWD).
The Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan, launched on March 11 by Union Home Minister Amit Shah alongside then Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri and L-G Saxena, encompasses 416 projects aimed at rural development. The bulk of these projects are being executed by the DDA, with the remainder overseen by other agencies.
The projects under this initiative include the construction and renovation of community centers, village chaupals, crematoriums, panchayat ghars, sports infrastructure, road repairs, and illumination of dark spots. Notably, 37 crematoriums are undergoing renovation to meet the demands of local residents.
L-G Saxena has emphasized the need for strict monitoring to avoid any delays or compromises in quality. District Magistrates (DMs) are tasked with the personal oversight of project progress and quality. To ensure transparency and accountability, all projects will be listed on a web portal for fortnightly e-monitoring, supported by before and after photographs or video evidence. Contractors are required to provide a five-year warranty on completed works, and any substandard work must be redone at no additional cost.
A significant aspect of the directive focuses on upgrading cremation grounds. L-G Saxena has instructed officials to explore the feasibility of installing electric and gas-based furnaces to curb the cutting of trees for wood. The construction and renovation of these facilities aim to ensure dignified last rites and include provisions for public amenities such as seating spaces. The maintenance of these grounds will involve local residents and NGOs, with the planting of flowering trees along the boundaries to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
The review revealed that work estimates amounting to INR 418 crore have already been sanctioned, with nearly INR 540 crore still available for further projects. L-G Saxena has directed agencies to revisit villages, consult residents, and identify potential new projects, including dispensaries, libraries, roads, drainage systems, and water bodies.
The directive from L-G Saxena underscores a rigorous approach to rural development under the Dilli Gramodaya Abhiyan. With a clear focus on timely completion, quality assurance, and community involvement, these projects aim to significantly enhance the infrastructure and quality of life in Delhi's villages.
This move is expected to bring substantial improvements to rural areas, reflecting the administration's commitment to comprehensive and sustainable development.