Delhi PWD Launches Major Beautification Drive Ahead of AI Impact Summit
In preparation for the upcoming Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit, the Public Works Department (PWD) of Delhi has initiated a comprehensive citywide beautification and infrastructure revamp project. This initiative, estimated to cost around Rs 1 crore, aims to enhance the city's appearance to welcome foreign delegates and their families attending the summit.
Focus on Key Areas and Traffic Islands
As part of this ambitious project, the PWD is planning to beautify two traffic islands located near the Hyatt hotel on the Ring Road in Southwest Delhi. This area is strategically chosen as some foreign delegates are expected to stay at this hotel during the summit. The stretch also serves as a crucial connection to the Airport Road via Dhaula Kuan, making it a high-visibility zone for visitors.
Officials have revealed that the beautification efforts will include the installation of two nine-feet tall lion sculptures and two musical fountains along this stretch. These additions are designed to create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment for the international guests.
Comprehensive Road and Infrastructure Upgrades
The PWD's plans extend beyond the traffic islands to include major roads across the city. Key areas to be beautified are those connecting to the airport, Bharat Mandapam (the summit venue in Pragati Maidan), Hyderabad House, prominent tourist spots, and popular markets that delegates are likely to visit. This holistic approach ensures that delegates experience a seamless and visually appealing journey throughout their stay.
To achieve these goals, the department has floated tenders to carry out the necessary work. The scope of the project includes:
- Fixing potholes and damaged central verges
- Replacing missing signage
- Removing dark spots to improve lighting
- Enhancing footpaths for better pedestrian access
- Ensuring all fountains are clean, functional, and aesthetically lit
Revamping Tourist Locations and Historical Sites
In addition to the areas around the summit venue, the PWD will also revamp roads leading to prominent tourist and historical locations in Delhi. These include:
- Qutub Minar
- Lal Quila (Red Fort)
- Humayun's Tomb
- Connaught Place
- Central Park
- Delhi Haat
- Mehrauli Archaeological Park
This effort aims to showcase Delhi's rich cultural heritage to the international delegates, providing them with a memorable experience beyond the summit itself.
Building on G20 Summit Standards
The Delhi government has directed the PWD and other civic agencies to ensure that the arrangements for the AI Impact Summit surpass the standards achieved during the G20 Summit in 2023. During that event, Delhi underwent a similar revamp, which included the installation of lion statues, Shivling-shaped fountains, elephant sculptures, and large fountains near the IGI Airport and outside Bharat Mandapam.
Last month, Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma held a high-level meeting with representatives from various civic agencies and departments, including the PWD, Tourism, New Delhi Municipal Council, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and Delhi Development Authority. The meeting focused on coordinating preparations to welcome dignitaries for the summit, emphasizing the importance of a unified and efficient approach.
Summit Details and Public Engagement
The Artificial Intelligence Impact Summit is scheduled to be held from February 15 to 20, 2026, with Bharat Mandapam selected as the venue for the main inauguration on February 19. Pre-main event activities and related bilateral engagements will be held at both Bharat Mandapam and Hyderabad House. Additionally, a public event is proposed to be held from February 15 at Central Park, allowing broader community involvement in the summit's festivities.
This beautification project not only aims to impress foreign delegates but also to leave a lasting legacy of improved urban infrastructure for Delhi's residents. By combining aesthetic enhancements with practical repairs, the PWD is setting a new benchmark for city preparedness during international events.
