Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has unveiled a long-term vision to strengthen the capital’s power infrastructure for the next five decades. The plan includes undergrounding electricity wires in Old Delhi, investing in modern grids, and supporting electric vehicle adoption, with projects worth ₹160 crore already underway.
In a significant announcement, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized that Delhi’s power sector is being future-proofed to meet rising demand and technological shifts over the next 50 years. Speaking at Chandni Chowk, she inaugurated the project to shift overhead electricity wires underground, a move aimed at enhancing safety, aesthetics, and reliability.
Key Highlights
-
Undergrounding of electricity wires across 28 roads and streets in Old Delhi, including Kucha Mahajani, Bhagirath Palace, Jama Masjid Road, and Nai Sadak, at a cost of ₹160 crore
-
The project will be executed in phases during night hours to minimize disruption to daily life and traffic movement
-
Introduction of advanced initiatives such as a GIS grid in Mandoli and four battery energy storage systems across Delhi to ensure uninterrupted supply and support renewable integration
-
Focus on electric vehicle adoption, which is expected to significantly increase power demand in the coming years
-
The government’s vision aligns with heritage preservation, as removing overhanging wires will restore the visual appeal of historic areas like Chandni Chowk
-
Enhanced safety measures for residents and businesses, reducing risks of electrical hazards from exposed overhead cables
Gupta highlighted that these measures are not just immediate upgrades but part of a comprehensive strategy to prepare Delhi’s energy ecosystem for the next half-century. With EV adoption, renewable integration, and modernized grids, the capital is positioning itself as a model for sustainable urban power management.
Sources: CNBCTV18, The Hindu, Times of India, ThePrint