Delhi Government Approves Major Rs 500 Crore Grant to MCD for Cleanliness and Pollution Control
In a significant move aimed at enhancing urban cleanliness and combating pollution, the Delhi government on Friday approved a substantial one-time financial assistance of Rs 500 crore to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). This initiative represents a major push to transform the national capital into a cleaner, dust-free, and less polluted city, addressing long-standing environmental and sanitation challenges.
High-Level Meeting and Key Decisions
The crucial decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, which saw the participation of senior ministers, representatives from the civic body, and top government officials. The gathering focused on strategizing effective measures to improve Delhi's air quality and sanitation infrastructure, with the Rs 500 crore grant serving as a cornerstone of these efforts.
Utilization of Funds for Sanitation and Pollution Control
Chief Minister Gupta emphasized that the allocated funds will be primarily directed towards strengthening sanitation services and tackling dust-related pollution, which remains a significant contributor to Delhi's persistently poor air quality. A substantial portion of the Rs 500 crore grant will be utilized to clear long-pending dues of agencies engaged in waste management, thereby ensuring uninterrupted garbage collection and sanitation services across the city.
Key areas of fund allocation include:
- Bridging recurring deficits in garbage collection and transportation systems.
- Removing accumulated waste from areas that are currently underserved or not serviced at all.
- Conducting minor road repairs, such as filling potholes and carrying out patch repairs, to reduce dust pollution at its source.
Long-Term Financial Support and Infrastructure Development
In addition to the one-time grant, the Delhi government has committed to providing regular annual assistance of Rs 300 crore to the MCD in the future. This sustained financial support is designed to ensure long-term improvement in Delhi's sanitation infrastructure, fostering a more systematic and enduring approach to urban cleanliness.
Strict Financial Oversight and Modernization Efforts
Directing the corporation to ensure that the funds are not diverted to other schemes, Chief Minister Gupta stressed strict adherence to financial rules and called for regular monitoring of expenditure. Mandatory submission of progress reports and utilization certificates will be required to maintain transparency and accountability in the use of the allocated resources.
Furthermore, additional funds are being earmarked for the procurement of modern sanitation equipment. Gupta instructed the MCD to set up new waste-to-energy plants and upgrade existing facilities to enhance the city's waste processing capacity. Highlighting the importance of green waste management, she advocated for the installation of modern waste-processing machines in every assembly constituency.
Encouraging Public Participation and Sustainable Practices
The Chief Minister also underscored the need for improved systems for the segregation and collection of wet and dry waste. Such measures, she noted, will not only streamline waste management processes but also encourage greater public participation, helping to sustain the ongoing cleanliness drive and promote a culture of environmental responsibility among Delhi's residents.
This comprehensive financial package and strategic plan reflect the Delhi government's proactive approach to addressing critical urban issues, aiming to create a healthier and more livable environment for all citizens.
