The Delhi government is actively pursuing a significant upgrade to the city's road infrastructure and has requested ₹950 crore from the Central Road Fund (CRF) to facilitate this ambitious project. The initiative aims to strengthen approximately 415 kilometers of roads under the jurisdiction of the Public Works Department (PWD).
Public Works Department Minister Parvesh Verma emphasized the critical need for this revitalization, highlighting that many of these roads have been in disrepair for as long as eight years, suffering from potholes and surface damage. He noted that despite the availability of central assistance for such projects, previous administrations had not utilized these funds. The current administration's proactive approach signifies a renewed focus on public infrastructure and a commitment to addressing long-standing deficits.
The planned road improvements go beyond simple resurfacing, representing a comprehensive strategy for urban infrastructure management. The PWD intends to "completely change the face of the city's roads" through comprehensive tenders that combine the repair of roads, footpaths, and drains into single contracts. This streamlined approach is designed to eliminate the inefficiencies of fragmented projects, where different contractors previously worked on separate components sequentially.
These comprehensive tenders will also require contractors to be responsible for regular maintenance for three to five years. This will ensure long-term quality and reduce the frequency of repairs, optimizing the use of resources.
In April 2025, the Delhi government sought proposals from all departments for funding from the Centre for capital projects. The Planning Department is the nodal department to streamline the process. The government plans to implement infrastructure projects with the support of the central government through funds available under Central Roads Funds (CRF) and Urban Development Funds (UDF). The BJP government will seek ₹4,128 crore under Centrally Sponsored Schemes and ₹7,348 crore under grants-in-aid from the Centre. The government also plans to seek financial assistance of ₹2,000 crore from the Centre to bring Delhi's water and sewage infrastructure in line with international standards.