Delhi Government Allocates ₹700 Crore for Slum Development and Rehabilitation

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The Delhi government has announced a ₹700 crore allocation dedicated to the redevelopment of slum settlements in the capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed the decision during a visit to the Faatak Wali Jhuggi near the Shalimar Bagh railway crossing, where she addressed concerns over an upcoming eviction due to a planned railway expansion project.

The chief minister assured residents that no eligible slum dweller would be displaced without proper housing arrangements in place. She emphasized the government’s commitment to rehabilitation, stating that dignified relocation will be ensured for all who qualify under official guidelines.

Gupta criticized the previous state administrations, accusing them of decades of neglect toward slum communities. She said past leaders used slum dwellers merely as a vote bank without delivering meaningful development or permanent housing solutions. In contrast, she highlighted her administration’s focus on infrastructure upgrades and long-term planning.

The ₹700 crore fund, to be managed by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), will be used for constructing essential facilities such as toilets, drainage systems, bathing areas for women, and pathways in slum clusters. The plan also includes improving access to clean drinking water, parks, and sanitation.

Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood supported the chief minister’s remarks and added that the fund allocation is the first of its kind in decades. He noted that vacant homes built under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana will be refurbished and used to house eligible families.

Officials said a comprehensive survey of slum dwellers in the affected area was conducted in 2020, but the previous government did not take any action. The current administration is now working with Indian Railways and other central agencies to ensure that all rehabilitation steps are followed before any eviction takes place.

The chief minister also called out opposition parties for spreading misinformation among slum residents and attempting to create unrest. She reaffirmed her government’s intent to provide both security and better living conditions to those in need.

The redevelopment initiative marks a significant move toward improving the quality of life for thousands of families living in informal settlements across Delhi.