As the winter chill settles over Delhi, the political arena is ablaze with all major parties gearing up for the assembly elections due in early 2025. With the city facing serious challenges, the election holds the promise of a new dawn. This election brings a pivotal opportunity and chance for Delhi to rise above its current state of disarray and reclaim its stature as a world-class city.
Constitutionally, Delhi has always been a unique hybrid entity, with threads of power shared between the Central and state governments. This dual structure demands cooperation and coordination to ensure effective administration and progress. The next leader must cast aside the theatrics of helplessness and embrace collaboration, working hand in hand with the Central government, not for political gain but for the dreams and aspirations of the people living in Delhi.
Every year, Delhi is caught in a predictable pattern of seasonal struggles. During summer, water shortages plague the city, while the rains inevitably cause widespread flooding. Water-logging brings with it a spike in diseases such as malaria and dengue, which strains the health care system. When the monsoon recedes, the water crisis reemerges, only to be followed by the choking smog of winter pollution.
These recurring problems demand more than temporary fixes. It is time for the new government to adopt a proactive and planned approach to break the cycle of inefficiency and improve the quality of life in Delhi. Starting desilting and drain maintenance a few months before the monsoon can help efficiently channel rainwater into water harvesting system and support lake revival projects. The harvested rainwater provides a local source of fresh water for the dry summer months next year. Likewise, timely measures to prevent mosquito breeding can help keep malaria and dengue in check. Regulating construction and industrial activities, along with timely steps to prevent garbage burning, will help minimise the impact of pollution during winters.
Effective use of technology has the potential to revolutionise governance and enhance the quality of life for citizens. Using mobile apps and digital platforms to connect people directly with essential services will ensure prompt redressal of problems, and thereby make administration more responsive. Use of integrated cameras and drones can provide cutting-edge security solutions. With AI-powered algorithms, traffic management systems can help ease congestion by adjusting signal timings in real time. Smart systems can monitor air quality, water levels and waste accumulation, so as to trigger automated actions for cleaning and maintenance. The future of governance lies in embracing technology for creating a more connected, responsive and efficient society.
The incoming government must urgently invest in new infrastructure development to meet growing demands. New hospitals and health care centres must be built to ensure that every citizen has access to quality medical care. Investing in modern schools is crucial for providing children with a strong foundation for their future. Delhi needs new roads, water treatment plans, waste management facilities and a robust drainage system. Parks and green spaces must also be prioritised for providing the people a respite from the urban chaos. These crucial infrastructure developments form the foundation of a vibrant, progressive, healthy and sustainable city.
Delhi needs hands that work and not just voices that shout. A leader who is willing to care and a government grounded in actions. The time for words has passed; now is the time to rise!
Bansuri Swaraj is the Lok Sabha member from New Delhi.