Delhi Chief Minister Unveils ₹1,03,700 Crore Budget Focused on Infrastructure and Environment
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has announced a budget of ₹1,03,700 crore, highlighting a strong focus on environmental sustainability and infrastructure development. The budget allocates significant funds for public works, urban development, and safety measures, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents. With a commitment to a 'Green Budget,' Gupta emphasizes the importance of balancing development with ecological considerations. This ambitious financial plan also addresses pressing issues such as water supply and fire safety, showcasing the government's proactive approach to urban challenges. Explore the full details of this comprehensive budget and its implications for Delhi's future.
Mar 24, 2026, 13:33 IST
Delhi's Ambitious Budget Announcement
On Tuesday, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented a budget of ₹1,03,700 crore in the Delhi Assembly, emphasizing environmental protection alongside a significant increase in infrastructure spending and record allocations for key sectors. Gupta described the budget as a forward-looking plan, noting that Delhi now ranks third among Indian states in terms of per capita income, while also defending the extensive expenditures made by her government.
Key Highlights of the Budget
Gupta stated that last year, a historic budget of ₹1 lakh crore was introduced, and this year, she is presenting a budget of ₹1,03,700 crore. A major focus of this budget is on the environment, with 21% of the total allocation designated as a 'Green Budget.' She emphasized that every policy and plan is being evaluated from an environmental perspective, aiming to strike a balance between development and ecological sustainability. This approach aligns with the Prime Minister's 4S framework - Speed, Skill, Strength, and Scale.
Infrastructure Investments
The budget allocates ₹5,921 crore to the Public Works Department (PWD) for infrastructure, while ₹7,887 crore is earmarked for urban development and housing projects. Gupta highlighted the goal of ensuring safe roads, climate corridors, and improved connectivity. Additionally, ₹3,942 crore has been allocated for the electricity department, with a separate ₹200 crore set aside for the removal of overhead power lines. The Chief Minister also announced ₹300 crore for the development of areas across the Yamuna and ₹787 crore for the Delhi Village Development Board.
Dust-Free Roads and Industrial Development
To promote dust-free roads, ₹1,352 crore has been allocated for the complete resurfacing of 750 kilometers of roads. Furthermore, ₹160 crore has been set aside for the development of industrial areas, marking the first allocation for non-conforming zones, which refer to urban or industrial areas not compliant with existing master plans or zoning regulations. Additionally, ₹454 crore has been allocated for the Najafgarh drain, and ₹350 crore for the Member of Legislative Assembly Local Area Development Scheme (MLALADS).
Future Projects and Safety Measures
For the financial year 2025-26, ₹151 crore has been allocated to extend the Modi Mill flyover to Kalakaji and Savitri Cinema intersection, with the total project cost estimated at ₹371 crore. The Delhi government will also construct an integrated secretariat and residential complex for its employees. Addressing the recent Palam fire incident, Gupta noted that narrow lanes and unauthorized colonies hinder firefighting efforts, leading to an allocation of ₹674 crore to strengthen fire safety infrastructure. To tackle water-related issues, the Delhi Jal Board has been allocated ₹9,000 crore, along with ₹475 crore for the Chandrawal water treatment plant to reduce the need for residents to queue for water tankers.