In a proactive move to address environmental concerns, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has greenlit the creation of a dedicated department aimed at combating pollution in the New Delhi region. During its latest meeting, the council also endorsed a ground-breaking ‘Right of Way’ policy designed to facilitate the installation of underground and above-ground telecom infrastructure in the esteemed Lutyens’ Delhi area.
Additionally, a substantial ₹169-crore initiative in collaboration with experts from IIT-Kanpur has been approved for the rejuvenation of the Kushak drain, a pivotal waterway traversing New Delhi and south Delhi. The civic body’s nod to the ₹169.57 crore Kushak drain revitalisation project underscores a commitment to addressing environmental challenges and fortifying the region’s ecological resilience. The collaboration with IIT-Kanpur signifies a strategic alliance with experts renowned for their prowess in environmental engineering and sustainable solutions.
NDMC vice-chairman Satish Upadhyay said directions have been issued to set up a dedicated department or a task force to control pollution in the New Delhi region. “We felt the need for creating a separate body to streamline the efforts for anti-pollution measures. We have also approved major anti-pollution measure in the form of a project for collection and disposal of the construction waste in the region,” he added. According to official estimates, the construction waste generation in the region varies from 25-100 tonnes per day. The civic body will spend ₹52.79 crore for collection disposal of debris for a period of five years he added.
This comprehensive approach aligns with the broader vision of mitigating pollution and enhancing the overall environmental quality of the New Delhi area. The ‘Right of Way’ policy not only streamlines the integration of telecom infrastructure but also reflects a forward-looking perspective on urban planning and technological development.
As the council takes these decisive steps, the meeting serves as a crucial milestone, especially considering the impending imposition of the model code of conduct for the upcoming general elections. The concerted efforts towards pollution control and environmental initiatives are poised to yield tangible benefits, positioning New Delhi as a leader in sustainable urban development.
