Stating that the quality of roads in the Capital will soon witness a sea change, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Saturday announced that her government will expedite renovation and refurbishment of all 647 roads transferred from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi.
Inaugurating a double-storey Balmiki Chaupal at Inderpuri in New Delhi, Ms. Dikshit said the work will provide a network of strengthened colony roads.
“The MCDs were not at all interested in the maintenance and upkeep of these roads. This was causing difficulties not only to the residents but also to the Delhi Transport Corporation, which had to withdraw its modern buses from many localities. Delhi being the Capital and a city where people from other countries visit must have a network of reliable and longer lasting roads,” she added.
Pointing out that her government had sanctioned Rs.1,800 crore for development of 647 roads having width of 60 feet and more, she said these roads were crucial as they connect a large number of colonies, villages and other important roads.
Keeping in mind the water scarcity in the city, the Chief Minister announced that a model underground reservoir costing Rs.60 lakh will be constructed.
Admitting that residents of resettlement colonies have been awaiting ownership rights for the past four decades, Ms. Dikshit said: “The wait is over now. They are bound to get their due right.”
The Balmiki Chaupal, constructed by the Department of Irrigation and Flood Control at a cost of Rs.46 lakh, will have a hall and a room on each floor. The new chaupal will be able to provide a better place for social gatherings and family functions.