Facing mounting expenses and growing skepticism, the Bharatiya Janata Party is reportedly contemplating shelving Delhi’s expansive streetscaping initiative. The decision comes amid increasing pressure to prioritize critical infrastructure over visual beautification.
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The streetscaping project was introduced with lofty goals—to reduce congestion, encourage walking and cycling, and beautify city roads. It promised smooth pedestrian paths, vibrant greenery, and improved traffic flow. Pilot zones saw upgraded drainage, artistic benches, and decorative lampposts, leading to initial optimism.
Where It Stumbled
Problems began when phase-wise costs began to inflate. Initial per-kilometer estimates were around ₹10–15 crore. Today, estimates in some areas touch ₹30 crore due to material cost hikes, labor shortages, and repeated design alterations.
BJP insiders say that while the vision was commendable, it was out of sync with financial reality. “The problem wasn’t the intention—it was the execution. We didn’t factor in long-term maintenance, nor did we evaluate whether these upgrades truly served the majority of people,” a senior PWD official admitted.
Maintenance Woes
Even in areas where streetscaping is complete, upkeep remains poor. Decorative tiles have come loose, LED lighting is non-functional in stretches, and garbage has accumulated in green zones. Critics have questioned the sustainability of such high-maintenance features in a city where municipal budgets are already tight.
The Delhi Urban Welfare Association released a report stating that 67% of newly designed spaces lacked proper cleaning or lighting within six months of completion.
Political Friction
This move has triggered a fresh war of words between the BJP and the AAP. AAP leaders accuse the BJP of backtracking on a project they once supported. “This is just political vindictiveness. If we can build smart cities elsewhere, why not in Delhi?” questioned Deputy CM Manish Sisodia in a recent press statement.
BJP leaders counter that they are being fiscally responsible. “We have to choose between beautification and providing drinking water. We’re not against smart development, but we have to be smart with our money first,” said BJP MP Parvesh Verma.
Citizen Impact
Residents of areas like Karol Bagh, where streetscaping led to road narrowing, have voiced concerns about traffic snarls. Many say the changes didn’t bring enough value for the inconvenience caused.
Meanwhile, youth and environmental groups have urged the government to consider hybrid models—combining aesthetics with utility, rather than scrapping the entire plan.
Looking Forward
Sources close to the Delhi government suggest a revised version of the project could be launched later this year—focused more on utility-based upgrades than large-scale aesthetic overhauls. This version would reportedly cost half as much and be tailored to each neighborhood’s specific needs.
Conclusion
As Delhi balances its urban aspirations with economic realities, the streetscaping project finds itself caught in the crossfire of politics, public opinion, and practicality. The BJP’s final decision may reshape not just roads, but also the city’s future development strategy.
