Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled plans on Monday to develop 10 “Namo Van” green zones across the capital to enhance forest cover and address the city’s persistent air pollution challenges.
CM Rekha Gupta announces 10 projects to combat air pollution
Speaking at the ‘Aadhar Infra Confluence 2025’ hosted by Panchjanya, CM Rekha Gupta outlined her government’s comprehensive environmental strategy alongside broader development goals for the capital.
“This year, we started planting 70 lakh saplings. We will also develop 10 dense wooded areas as ‘Namo Van’,” she announced, detailing her administration’s urban infrastructure initiatives.
Anti-Pollution Measures in Delhi
The CM emphasized her government’s multi-pronged approach to air quality improvement since taking office six years ago. She noted that her administration inherited numerous “legacy” issues from previous governments and responded with unprecedented environmental measures.
For the first time in Delhi’s history, her government introduced a comprehensive dust mitigation plan. “One thousand water sprinklers are being deployed across the city, and it has been made mandatory for all high-rises to have smog guns,” she stated.
The government is also transitioning the entire public transport fleet to electric vehicles while developing an updated EV policy. Additionally, officials are working on addressing wood burning by security guards during winter months, a practice contributing to seasonal air pollution.
Infrastructure Development
Gupta highlighted significant progress in flood management, particularly regarding the Yamuna River. “As a result of the government’s efforts, the floodwater of the Yamuna this year did not spread beyond its floodplains,” she reported.
The administration focused on desilting major drainage systems, removing 25,000 metric tonnes of silt from the Barapulla and Shahdara drains while addressing critical waterlogging points citywide. These efforts prevented major flooding in residential areas during monsoon season.
Urban Challenges
Despite progress, Rekha Gupta acknowledged substantial challenges facing Delhi’s urban development. Nearly 700 slum clusters lack proper sewer connections and water supply, while 1,800 unauthorized colonies force residents to endure substandard living conditions.
Her government’s priorities include strengthening basic infrastructure through comprehensive sewer lines and water pipelines across all city areas, alongside improved roads, transportation facilities, healthcare, and education access.
The Chief Minister positioned her administration’s vision as transforming Delhi into a hub for education, tourism, IT, and healthcare while maintaining environmental sustainability and job creation.
