Key projects in Capital affected by election period restrictions
New Delhi: The election period model code of conduct in New Delhi is set to delay several key infrastructure projects, as activities under both state and central government departments face slowdowns. Numerous infrastructure projects critical to the city’s development are now on hold, awaiting the conclusion of the election period before moving forward. Notable works that will be affected include the Okhla sewage treatment plant, road repairs, parking facilities, water treatment initiatives, and the redevelopment of the Shivaji Bus Terminal.
One of the most significant delays is the Okhla sewage treatment plant, which is 98 per cent complete and jointly funded by both the central and state governments. The plant, capable of processing 124 million gallons of wastewater per day, has already faced a year-long delay. Despite nearing completion, its inauguration will now be postponed due to the code of conduct.
Plans to develop a corridor near Indira Gandhi International Airport and to construct a major children’s home in Alipur under the women and child development department will also be put on hold until after the elections. Similarly, a proposed scheme to settle water bill disputes, which would have offered waivers to consumers with inflated water bills, can only be launched once the elections are concluded.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has long struggled with delays in multi-level parking projects at key locations, including Rajendra Place, Rani Bagh, Shastri Park, and Idgah. In an attempt to advance the projects, MCD hired a consultant to prepare a detailed project report and tender documents. However, no decision on the consultant has been made, effectively stalling progress on these crucial projects.
Additionally, the redevelopment of the Shivaji Bus Terminal, initiated six years ago by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), will experience further delays.
While a revised plan was recently proposed, the project, which aims to transform the terminal into a commercial complex with modern amenities, has yet to be finalized or begun. The NDMC had planned to re-invite tenders to incorporate international standards into the design, but the code of conduct has further slowed this process.
Similarly, the NDMC’s plan to create a 9-kilometer cycling route between New Moti Bagh and South Block-Udyog Bhawan, which had already received budget approval, will
now be delayed.
Final approvals were pending from the planning and finance departments, but work cannot commence until after the election period concludes. The project, estimated to cost Rs 11 crore, will also be postponed.
