Preparing for the World Stage
When international leaders gather, the host city is as much a part of the conversation as the policy discussions. With the BRICS Summit scheduled for September 12-13, the NDMC is leaving nothing to chance. The comprehensive civic plan aims to present
New Delhi as a clean, green, and world-class capital, ensuring that urban services and aesthetics meet the highest international standards for the delegates and visitors. This effort is not just about a temporary facelift; it's a demonstration of India's urban management capabilities, drawing on lessons from previous large-scale events like the G20 Summit to deliver a seamless experience. The goal is to showcase a city that is efficient, beautiful, and ready for the global spotlight.
Round-the-Clock Sanitation Drive
The centerpiece of the plan is an intensive, 24/7 sanitation drive scheduled to run from September 9 to 14. To achieve this, the NDMC will deploy additional sanitation staff and special night-duty teams. The cleaning operations will be extensive, utilizing a fleet of mechanical road sweepers, scrubbers, and other specialized equipment for deep cleaning. To manage waste effectively during the summit period, temporary dustbins and mobile toilets will be installed at strategic locations. The plan also includes measures to remove stray animals from key areas to ensure safety and tidiness. This round-the-clock effort is designed to maintain impeccable cleanliness across the city’s high-traffic zones.
A City in Bloom: Beautification and Greening
Beyond just cleanliness, the NDMC's plan emphasizes aesthetics and greening. To enhance the city's visual appeal, the council has identified numerous locations for special attention. The plan includes the installation of floral boards at 15 locations, nine flower fountains, and the special beautification and decorative illumination of 17 major roundabouts. The horticulture department is tasked with a wide-ranging mandate that includes planting seasonal flowers, extensive landscaping, greening barren or brown patches, and maintaining green corridors along major roads. Pruning of shrubs and the placement of decorative planters will also contribute to giving prominent public spaces a well-manicured and vibrant appearance.
Infrastructure and Zonal Monitoring
To ensure a smooth experience for both residents and dignitaries, the NDMC has prioritized infrastructure maintenance. A key part of the strategy involves 41 major roads, which have been organized into 14 distinct circles. Each circle is assigned a dedicated nodal officer responsible for conducting daily inspections and ensuring any issues are resolved swiftly. Their responsibilities include overseeing the repair of potholes and footpaths, maintaining railings and road signage, and clearing any construction debris. Furthermore, enforcement teams will be active in removing unauthorized hoardings and regulating street vending to keep routes clear and orderly. This structured approach ensures that every critical area receives consistent attention.
A Coordinated Effort for a Lasting Impact
This ambitious project is not the work of the NDMC alone. Success hinges on close coordination with a variety of stakeholders. The council is working with the Ministry of External Affairs, Delhi Police, and other government agencies to manage traffic, security, and public spaces effectively. Importantly, the plan also involves collaboration with resident welfare associations (RWAs), market traders' associations, and hotels to maintain cleanliness and civic discipline. The public health department will also play a crucial role, with medical teams and ambulances on standby, intensified inspections of food establishments, and robust mosquito-control measures. This multi-pronged, collaborative strategy is designed to ensure the summit's success while also building a framework for sustained civic improvement.
