The BJP-led Delhi government is reportedly having second thoughts about continuing with the city’s expensive streetscaping scheme. The initiative, launched with the goal of giving the capital a world-class urban facelift, is now at risk of being scrapped as financial pressure mounts.
The Vision: From Grey to Green
The original plan focused on transforming over 500 km of Delhi’s roads. Features like tree-lined walkways, stone-tiled footpaths, dedicated cycle tracks, mood lighting, and modern bus shelters were intended to improve not just the appearance, but also the functionality of major city roads.
Urban designers and planners were brought in to help the city shed its cluttered, chaotic image in favor of a cleaner, pedestrian-friendly environment.
Cost Explosion
However, what began as a ₹500-crore project has spiraled into something much bigger and costlier. As of early 2025, revised estimates suggest that continuing the work under the current plan could cost over ₹1,200 crore—more than double the original estimate.
Officials in the BJP say that with the post-pandemic economy still recovering and Delhi’s civic budget stretched thin, it’s simply not feasible to pour more money into cosmetic upgrades.
A senior party functionary noted, “The cost-benefit ratio is not adding up. We have to prioritize essentials like sewage, housing, and hospitals over decorative pavements.”
Project Execution: Glitches and Delays
Several stretches of the project have been criticized for poor quality execution and delays. In areas like Ring Road and Dwarka, sections were dug up multiple times due to a lack of coordination between PWD, telecom, and utility services.
A 2024 audit report from the Delhi State Finance Commission described the project’s planning as “ambitious but fragmented.” It noted that 40% of the redesigned walkways were either incomplete or already damaged.
Public and Expert Opinions
Architect and urban policy analyst Anuj Bhatia criticized the implementation. “You can’t import urban design models from Europe and copy-paste them in Indian cities without tailoring them to our needs. Delhi’s biggest issues—heat, dust, encroachment—weren’t considered deeply in these designs.”
On the other hand, local resident groups and cycling activists have expressed disappointment at the news of the project being potentially shelved. “Finally, we were getting cycle lanes and usable sidewalks. If this is scrapped, it sends the message that pedestrian needs aren’t a priority,” said Neha Tyagi, a social activist.
Environmental Setbacks
The Delhi High Court has recently intervened after complaints from green groups about the felling of trees and poor waste disposal on project sites. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has also questioned the lack of environmental impact studies for such widespread urban changes.
Political Ripple Effects
As elections approach, the decision to pause or scrap the project could have political consequences. Critics say the BJP is attempting to distance itself from projects associated with the AAP, which originally initiated the beautification under the Delhi government.
In response, BJP leaders insist the move is based solely on economic prudence and not political rivalry.
Alternatives Under Consideration
Rather than continuing the current model, sources say the BJP government is considering more cost-effective, decentralized solutions. These could include smart signage, solar street lighting, localized footpath repairs, and green belt restoration—measures that require lower investment but deliver immediate public value.
Conclusion
The streetscaping project that once promised to transform Delhi’s urban landscape now teeters on the edge. As the BJP weighs its financial priorities, Delhiites are left wondering whether their city’s facelift will ever be completed—or if it will remain a half-finished dream.
