
For the First Time, Centre, State & MCD Have a Common Goal: Delhi CM
In a surprising turn of events, Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has expressed optimism about the city’s development, citing a newfound sense of cooperation among the Centre, State, and Municipal Corporation (MCD). In an interview with the Indian Express, CM Gupta emphasized that for the first time, the three entities are working together towards a common goal, a phenomenon she believes is crucial for Delhi’s growth.
Gupta’s comments come at a time when Delhi is grappling with several pressing issues, including pollution, infrastructure development, and governance. The city has long been plagued by partisan politics, with the Centre and State governments frequently at odds over issues such as the appointment of Lieutenant Governors, funding, and policy decisions. However, it appears that the tide is changing, and CM Gupta is optimistic about the prospects for cooperation.
“For the first time, there’s a positive vibe where the Centre, State, and municipal corporation are working together with a common goal,” CM Gupta said. “Previous governments only focused on fighting…with the Lieutenant Governor, the PM, the administration, courts [and] police.” Her remarks suggest that the constant infighting and bickering have finally given way to a more collaborative approach.
The Delhi CM attributed the shift in attitude to the realisation that Delhi’s growth is dependent on a harmonious relationship between the Centre, State, and MCD. She believes that people have come to understand that a “double-engine government” – a term coined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to describe the BJP’s control over both the Centre and a state government – is essential for Delhi’s progress.
Gupta’s comments have sparked hope among Delhi’s residents, who have long suffered from the city’s poor infrastructure, air and water pollution, and inadequate public services. The MCD, responsible for providing essential services such as waste management, sewage, and street lighting, has been plagued by corruption, inefficiency, and lack of resources. However, with the Centre and State governments working together, there is a sense that things can finally start to change.
One of the most pressing issues facing Delhi is pollution, which has become a major health concern in recent years. The city’s air quality is notoriously poor, with high levels of particulate matter (PM) and other pollutants causing respiratory problems and other health issues. The Centre, State, and MCD have launched several initiatives to combat pollution, including the odd-even car rationing scheme, increased public transportation, and the promotion of electric vehicles.
However, despite these efforts, Delhi’s pollution levels remain unacceptably high. CM Gupta has acknowledged the scale of the problem, saying that the city needs a “holistic approach” to tackle pollution. She has called for greater cooperation between the Centre, State, and MCD to develop a comprehensive plan to address pollution, including the creation of green corridors, increased tree planting, and the promotion of clean energy.
Gupta has also emphasized the need for greater investment in Delhi’s infrastructure, including its transportation network, public services, and healthcare facilities. She has called for the Centre and State governments to work together to develop a comprehensive plan for the city’s development, including the creation of new housing and employment opportunities.
The Delhi CM’s comments have been welcomed by the BJP, which has long argued that a “double-engine government” is essential for the city’s growth. AAP leader Kejriwal has also welcomed the development, saying that it is a “big step forward” for Delhi.
While CM Gupta’s optimism is undoubtedly welcome, there are still many challenges ahead for Delhi. The city faces significant infrastructure and governance challenges, and it will require sustained effort and cooperation from the Centre, State, and MCD to address these issues.
However, CM Gupta’s comments suggest that a new era of cooperation is underway in Delhi. For the first time, the Centre, State, and MCD appear to be working together towards a common goal, a development that could have significant benefits for the city’s residents.
As Delhi moves forward, it is crucial that the Centre, State, and MCD maintain this cooperative approach. Only by working together can Delhi’s residents expect to see real progress on issues such as pollution, infrastructure development, and governance.
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