New Delhi: In a significant Republic Day gesture, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally engaged with residents of jhuggi jhopri (JJ) clusters, inauguring a comprehensive suite of infrastructure projects collectively valued at approximately Rs 327 crore. The initiative, aimed at substantially improving the living conditions of these communities, was launched from the Chief Minister's House, marking a pivotal moment in urban development efforts.
A Commitment to Transformative Development
Addressing a gathering that included JJ residents, officials, and dignitaries, CM Gupta articulated a clear vision. She asserted that the Delhi government is operating with an unwavering commitment to elevate the quality of life for individuals residing in JJ clusters. In a pointed critique, Gupta contrasted her administration's approach with that of previous governments, which she accused of treating JJ residents merely as vote banks, thereby perpetuating an environment characterized by fear and systemic neglect.
"The present government considers the struggles of the poor as its own," Gupta emphasized, underscoring a philosophy of shared responsibility and empathy. She highlighted the indispensable contribution of workers from these settlements to Delhi's growth, noting their vital role in building the city's infrastructure. The government's core objective, she stressed, is to ensure that developmental benefits effectively reach the last mile, leaving no citizen behind.
Project Details and Implementation Status
The approved projects encompass two major components designed to address critical infrastructure gaps:
- Public Convenience Complexes: A substantial allocation of Rs 225 crore has been sanctioned for 476 individual works under this scheme. Progress is already underway, with 214 projects valued at Rs 81 crore having been successfully awarded for execution.
- Cement-Concrete Work: An additional Rs 102 crore has been approved for 254 projects focused on cement-concrete improvements. From this pool, 172 works worth Rs 63 crore have already been awarded, indicating active momentum on the ground.
Of the total sanctioned amount of Rs 327 crore, work contracts worth Rs 144 crore have already been disbursed, demonstrating a proactive approach to implementation. The Chief Minister's Office (CMO) noted that the program was distinguished by the active participation of numerous women from the JJ clusters, reflecting inclusive engagement.
Symbolic Gestures and Distinguished Attendance
The event was graced by the presence of key figures, including Cabinet Minister Ashish Sood, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, and CEO of the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), Rupesh Thakur, alongside several other senior officials and dignitaries. In a move that personalized the occasion, CM Gupta extended personal invitations to JJ cluster representatives to participate in the program.
"The CM personally invited JJ cluster representatives to participate in the programme and ate lunch with them," her office added, highlighting a gesture of solidarity and direct connection with the community. This act symbolized a break from past practices and reinforced the government's stated commitment to inclusive governance and tangible, people-centric development.
