NDMC Intensifies Preparations for Upcoming AI Summit in New Delhi
In a comprehensive review ahead of the highly anticipated AI Summit, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) conducted an extensive assessment of all operational and aesthetic preparations on Saturday. The summit, scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam from February 16 to 20, is expected to attract a diverse array of international delegates, policymakers, and industry leaders from across the globe.
Integrated Command and Control Centre to Oversee Summit Operations
The council's Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) will play a pivotal role in coordinating with Delhi Traffic Police and other agencies to monitor VIP movements, identify potential congestion points, and prevent traffic snarls throughout the event. NDMC vice-chairman Kuljeet Chahal emphasized that the civic body is working in strict alignment with the summit's theme, Sarvajan Hitaya, Sarvajan Sukhaya, which translates to welfare and happiness for all.
After a detailed inspection of the control room, Chahal revealed, "A total of 333 NDMC, 183 Delhi Police, and 214 PWD CCTV cameras are fully integrated with the ICCC for round-the-clock surveillance across Lutyens' Delhi. Additionally, a dedicated traffic hotline has been established to ensure smooth vehicular movement."
Enhanced Surveillance and Sanitation Measures
Senior Delhi Police officers, including Joint Commissioner Deepak Purohit of the New Delhi Range, along with NDMC officials, outlined the key highlights of the event preparations. Chahal further explained that the extensive CCTV network will not only monitor traffic but also oversee various NDMC services and civic operations to enable prompt resolution of issues.
To guarantee the effectiveness of all sanitation and service vehicles, they will be meticulously tracked using GPS technology. The infrastructure includes:
- 959 RFID-enabled bins
- 10 jetting machines
- 12 mechanical road sweepers
- 8 anti-smog guns
- 14 water tankers
Each vehicle's route, distance, and activity will be continuously monitored to ensure bins are cleaned regularly and vehicles adhere to dedicated routes. Alerts will be automatically generated if any vehicle exits NDMC limits.
Targeted Waste Management and Environmental Monitoring
At least 99 hotspots have been identified at hotels, markets, and high-footfall areas, where garbage collection will occur multiple times daily. These sites are strategically located along delegate routes, as they may visit these markets during the summit.
For environmental safety, 20 air quality sensors have been installed throughout the area. These sensors will monitor six to eight parameters and generate immediate alerts in case of any abnormalities, ensuring a healthy atmosphere for all attendees.
Centralized Complaint Resolution and Beautification Initiatives
All complaints received through the NDMC 311 app, phone calls, and websites will be centrally monitored at the ICCC and automatically routed to the concerned officials, with real-time status updates provided. Chahal confirmed that 24×7 staffing has been deployed at the ICCC to address and mitigate complaints in a time-bound manner.
Simultaneously, a large-scale beautification drive is in full swing, featuring:
- Over 15,000 decorative plants
- 4,000 hanging baskets
- 15 floral boards showcasing AI-themed logos
- 23 floral fountains
A tulip festival is also scheduled at Shanti Path during the summit, adding to the aesthetic appeal.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Artistic Installations
All 41 major roads are undergoing significant upgrades, including new signage, road markings, footpaths, street lighting, and safety devices. Prominent buildings and junctions are being illuminated to enhance visibility and security.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi is installing seven modern art pieces, which include works by local artists and AI-created installations. Notable installations include:
- A fully operational fountain at a revamped traffic island outside Nizamuddin Basti, next to the Lodhi Road flyover.
- A butterfly-themed, illuminated modern art installation outside gate no. 4 of Bharat Mandapam.
- A data column-designed structure on Bhairon Marg, accompanied by additional sculptures in the vicinity.
Art installations have also been placed at a park near Shanti Van traffic junction, the traffic island at Delhi Gate opposite gate no. 5 of Dr Ambedkar Stadium, and the traffic island near the MCD parking at the Sunder Nursery entrance.
An official stated, "Public walls outside Lodhi Road Crematorium are being painted and illuminated, while other locations will be covered by Sunday." These efforts collectively aim to create a seamless and visually appealing environment for the international event.
