A Summit of Global Significance
Hosting the BRICS summit is a major diplomatic event for India, which holds the group's chairmanship for 2026. The bloc, which includes major emerging economies like Brazil, Russia, China, and South Africa, along with newer members, represents a significant
portion of the world's population and GDP. The summit theme, “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” underscores India's goal to foster collaboration on a global scale. For New Delhi, this means not only organizing high-level meetings but also ensuring the city itself reflects this message of competence and readiness. This event is an opportunity to project an image of a clean, efficient, and modern capital, making the physical preparations a matter of national prestige.
The Multi-Agency Makeover
The massive civic overhaul is a coordinated effort involving multiple bodies. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) is leading a comprehensive preparedness plan focused on seamless urban services and enhanced aesthetics. It is working in close coordination with the Delhi government, the Ministry of External Affairs, and other central agencies to ensure smooth arrangements. Delhi's Lieutenant Governor, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, has directed all stakeholders to ensure robust security, smooth traffic management, and civic upkeep. To manage the extensive work, the NDMC has divided 41 major roads into 14 circles, each with a dedicated nodal officer responsible for daily inspections and prompt issue resolution. A 24x7 command and control centre will monitor services in real time using CCTV surveillance and field reports.
From Potholes to Floral Fountains
The preparations on the ground are extensive and visible. Infrastructure maintenance, including the repair of potholes and footpaths, is a top priority. The beautification drive is even more ambitious. The NDMC's plan includes landscaping, planting seasonal flowers, and installing floral boards and fountains at key locations, including 17 roundabouts designated for special treatment. A round-the-clock sanitation plan will be in effect from September 9 to 14, involving mechanical road sweepers, additional sanitation staff, and special night-duty teams. Special enforcement drives are also planned to remove illegal hoardings, manage unregulated street vending, and ensure smooth traffic flow on VIP routes. To create public awareness, BRICS-related branding will be displayed on over 150 digital screens across the NDMC area.
More Than Just a Temporary Facelift?
For Delhi's residents, the intense focus on civic amenities raises a familiar question: will the improvements last? The flurry of activity is a welcome sight for many who navigate the city's streets daily. The freshly paved roads, clean public spaces, and enhanced greenery are tangible benefits. However, there's also a healthy dose of skepticism born from past experiences with large events, where beautification efforts often proved temporary. The hope is that the systems being put in place, such as the 24x7 monitoring and coordinated multi-agency efforts, will become a new standard for urban management rather than a one-off exercise. The NDMC has also appealed to Resident Welfare Associations and market associations to participate in the cleanliness drives, suggesting a desire for a more sustained, community-involved approach to civic upkeep.
