In preparation for the high-profile AI Impact Summit scheduled for February 2026, Delhi's municipal bodies have rolled out an extensive city beautification and infrastructure upgrade plan. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) are targeting key roads, markets, hotels, and tourist spots around the summit venues for a major facelift.
G20-Inspired Preparations Take Shape
The civic agencies, following directives from a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma, are modeling their efforts on the standards set during the G20 Summit. The focus areas are comprehensive, covering security, traffic management, cleanliness, road conditions, signage, lighting, and managing stray animals. Officials from both agencies have already conducted ground surveys to identify necessary improvements.
The main inaugural event is slated for February 19, 2026, at the Bharat Mandapam. Given the international spotlight, the MCD, as the country's largest civic body, has committed to ensuring all municipal services and aesthetics in its jurisdiction meet global standards for the event's duration from February 15 to 20.
NDMC's Action Plan: Deadlines and Deep Cleaning
The NDMC has moved swiftly into action mode. An official stated that all 41 avenue roads under its jurisdiction were inspected last week by department heads alongside the chairman. Following this audit, responsibilities have been assigned with a strict deadline to address all identified gaps by January 31, 2026.
Initial steps are already visible. A deep-cleaning drive was executed in Connaught Place on Saturday, with plans to repeat it regularly. The council is also engaging directly with market associations, including those from Khan Market and Connaught Place, to secure their cooperation in maintaining cleanliness. Special attention is being given to areas with a high concentration of hotels to enhance their surroundings aesthetically.
Beautification and Venue Allocation
The beautification plan is detailed and ambitious. The horticulture department has been instructed to place more flowering plants across the city. Decorative lighting will be installed in 16 circles, accompanied by floral boards. In a move reminiscent of the G20 preparations, trees along all major avenue roads will be illuminated.
Furthermore, the NDMC has allocated Central Park from February 16 to 20 to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. This space will be used by AI companies to set up exhibition stalls and will remain open to the public during the summit period.
Other critical measures include:
- Coordination with power distribution companies to remove overhead cables near monuments.
- Revamping areas around public sculptures and fountains.
- Strengthening cleanliness measures at garbage-vulnerable points.
- Removing encroachments under flyovers and along major roads.
- Ensuring maintenance of roads and footpaths and improving street lighting.
The concerted effort by Delhi's civic authorities underscores the city's commitment to hosting a world-class event that showcases not only advancements in Artificial Intelligence but also a capital city that is clean, beautiful, and efficiently managed.
