June 10, 2021
Initiatives to increase public transport use include increasing the State’s bus fleet and creating public parking spaces.
EV charging stations, as well as designated spots for walking and cycling are to be included in the new land plan.
Existing schemes like the electric vehicle policy and premium bus scheme have been further leveraged in the Master Plan document.
Pollution, water shortage and improper use of public space are the key issues faced by the national capital.
The Master Plan also contains provisions to devote spaces for walking and cycling, leveraging existing flagship policies such as the premium bus scheme, public information system for buses, and the electric vehicle policy. Road expansions, multimodal transport systems, improving inter-city connectivity, increasing bus fleet, and promoting large-scale use of clear energy are part of the action items outlined. If implemented successfully, the plan will endeavour to transform Delhi into a ‘People’s city’ that will look to preserve cultural heritage in addition to redefining land use and setting high standards for sustainability.
The Master Plan of Delhi has come a long way from its initial focus on demarcating spaces for residential and commercial purposes as well as curbing the growth of unauthorised colonies. However, gaps have been reported in the on-ground implementation of the existing Master Plan. Experts point out that the city faces issues of water shortage, air pollution, as well as unplanned development that threatens both spatial and environmental integrity. Vehicular pollution and stubble burning are key contributors to pollution in the city and will require to be addressed in a strategic manner. In that context, the Master Plan 2041 has been praised for its environmental focus and incentive to take on ‘land pooling’ initiatives.
The Economic Survey of Delhi 2020-21 has identified the infrastructure sector as the key to enhancing economic growth within the city. Strong public infrastructure bears a significant correlation with macroeconomic stability, better recovery from the impact of the pandemic and ease in planning the future of the State.