Poor Air Quality To Yamuna Cleaning: List Of Challenges For New Chief Minister Of Delhi Rekha Gupta

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) picked first-time MLA Rekha Gupta to lead Delhi. She was picked unanimously with the support of all 48 MLAs. But ruling Delhi is not going to be an easy task for Rekha Gupta as several big challenges are still waiting to be answered.

The new government faces task of fulfilling election promises while managing finances and enhancing Delhi's infrastructure.

Challenges For New Delhi CM:

One of the BJP's major pledges was to provide Rs 2,500 to eligible women by March 8. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured in a campaign speech, "We have pledged to give Rs 2,500 to our sisters ... this guarantee will be completed because it is Modi's guarantee ... you will see that the BJP government will be formed In Delhi and on March 8, International Women's Day ... they (women) will start getting money in their accounts." Establishing a system for this initiative is a pressing task for the new administration.

Focus on Health and Infrastructure:

The Ayushman Bharat Scheme's swift implementation is crucial for the BJP government. The AAP government previously rejected this health insurance scheme, joining West Bengal in doing so. Implementing it would allow Delhi access to central funds for healthcare infrastructure improvements, which the Delhi High Court has highlighted as necessary.

Urban development projects stalled under the previous AAP government due to alleged bureaucratic resistance. The BJP aims to deliver tangible results quickly, leveraging its influence in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Plans include road repairs, flyovers, and addressing landfill issues. Draft Cabinet notes are being prepared for rapid execution.

Financial Management Challenges:

During AAP's tenure, financial concerns were raised by the finance department about state spending and subsidies. Despite maintaining a revenue surplus, AAP sought a Rs 10,000 crore loan before elections. The BJP plans to continue existing subsidies like free power and bus rides for women while introducing new ones.

The new administration must align with central projects like RRTS and Delhi Metro financially. It also needs to initiate efforts for more buses under the FAME scheme for electric vehicles to expand public transport options.

Environmental Commitments:

A clean Yamuna remains a significant promise from successive governments. The river's pollution was a key campaign issue, with BJP vowing action where Congress and AAP failed. Most pollutants enter as Yamuna flows through Delhi due to illegal industries and untreated sewage from unauthorised colonies.

The challenge is compounded by low water levels during non-monsoon months. Addressing these issues requires substantial effort from the new government.