NDMC aims for 100% solar energy adaptation

Following the Delhi Assembly elections, the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) held its first council meeting, unveiling major initiatives aimed at improving civic infrastructure and promoting sustainability. Key among them is the goal of achieving 100% solar energy adoption by 2026, providing subsidies and installing solar panels on rooftops. Other significant measures include night sweeping, rainwater harvesting, anti-encroachment drives, and comprehensive CCTV surveillance across the NDMC area.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) held on Tuesday, 11 March, its first post-election meeting, focusing on several key civic initiatives. A major highlight was the announcement of a goal to achieve 100% solar energy adoption by 2026. NDMC Vice Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal stated that the civic body would match central government subsidies to promote solar usage.

Among other initiatives, night sweeping—first implemented in Khan Market—has been expanded to five additional areas. Chahal warned that strict action would be taken against agencies failing to meet contractual obligations, and a committee will be formed to identify and address operational loopholes.

The council also reviewed the Summer Action Plan, which includes rainwater harvesting to mitigate waterlogging, a persistent issue in the capital. Additionally, NDMC will launch a rigorous anti-encroachment drive and enhance CCTV surveillance throughout the NDMC area. New machines will be procured to address waterlogging, and efforts are underway to procure electricity at reduced rates to lower high power bills.

Anil Valmiki, an NDMC council member, stressed the importance of employee welfare, confirming that staff concerns would be addressed in every meeting. 

NDMC also plans to install 9,000 new water connections across 34 clusters, benefiting approximately 47,000 residents within six months.

The council comprises a chairman, official and non-official members, including nominated members by the Ministry of Home Affairs, and elected representatives such as the New Delhi MP, MLA, and Delhi Cantonment MLA. After the elections MP Bansuri Swaraj, who is also a member of the NDMC, administered the oath to newly elected NDMC members—New Delhi MLA Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma (BJP) and Delhi Cantonment MLA Virender Singh Kadian (AAP).