The Delhi government has unveiled a significant proposal to fast-track the construction and upgrade of school infrastructure across the capital. To overcome delays, the administration plans to bring central public sector undertakings (PSUs) like NBCC and NPCC on board to execute projects, supplementing the existing Public Works Department (PWD).
Addressing Overburdened Agencies and Urgent Repairs
A cabinet note prepared by the Directorate of Education (DoE) highlighted a critical bottleneck: the current executing agencies are stretched too thin. By adding more capable agencies, the government aims to significantly speed up the pace of work. This move is crucial for the timely delivery of new school buildings, additional classrooms, repair works, and sports facilities.
The need for this acceleration is stark. Out of 799 government school buildings in Delhi, a substantial 284 operate in double shifts. The government has a clear plan to convert all these double-shift schools into single-shift institutions by creating the necessary additional infrastructure, with detailed planning already underway.
Furthermore, the DoE has identified widespread structural and safety issues. At least 16 schools currently function from tin or makeshift structures. In numerous others, facilities like guardrooms, halls, and toilet blocks are in a dilapidated state, often requiring complete reconstruction. Official data from the 2025 budget session in the Vidhan Sabha revealed that 129 schools need urgent repairs.
Ambitious Targets: New Schools and CM Shri Upgrades
A cornerstone of the infrastructure push is the establishment of 75 CM Shri schools. The cabinet has already approved this project, which involves major repairs, renovation, beautification, and technological refurbishment of existing schools to elevate their standard.
Alongside upgrades, the DoE is also planning a steady expansion. The blueprint includes the construction of 10 new schools every year, with a target of completing 50 new schools by 2029.
Significant Budgetary Allocation and Next Steps
The scale of this proposed expansion is reflected in the budgetary allocations. Currently, the DoE spends between Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 1,200 crore annually on civil works. This includes dedicated funds for additional classrooms (Rs 300 crore), ordinary repairs (Rs 100 crore), and the CM Shri Schools project (Rs 295 crore). Officials estimate this expenditure will see a substantial rise over the next four years as these ambitious projects take off.
The proposal to involve central PSUs is now moving forward. Officials confirmed that an in-principle approval has been obtained from the Education Minister to seek willingness from these public sector giants. The formal proposal will soon be presented at a cabinet meeting for final approval, marking a new phase in Delhi's school infrastructure development.
