Delhi Budget 2025-26: Major focus on boosting road transport, metro rail and waterways

Key Highlights of the Budget:

• Public Transport Revamp: A substantial ₹12,952 crore has been allocated to upgrade Delhi's public transport system, representing a 38% increase from the previous fiscal year. This includes plans to expand the city’s electric bus fleet to over 5,000 buses by FY2025- 26, contributing to cleaner and greener transportation.

• Delhi Metro Phase IV: ₹2,929.66 crore has been allocated to initiate work on the Delhi Metro’s Phase IV corridors, including routes like Lajpat Nagar-Saket, Inderlok-Indraprastha, and Rithala-Bawana-Narela-Nathupur. This project aims to expand Delhi’s metro network, enhancing connectivity across the capital.

• Infrastructure Boost: With a major push toward infrastructure development, the budget doubles capital expenditure to ₹28,000 crore. Funds will be directed toward key sectors like roads, sewer systems, water supply, and urban connectivity.

• Road & Bridge Development: A dedicated sum of ₹3,843 crore will be invested in improving roads and bridges throughout Delhi, ensuring smoother commutes for its residents.

• Smart Travel Scheme for Women: A new initiative for women commuters includes a free smart card for public transport buses, offering unlimited travel. This measure aims to eliminate corruption linked to ticketing systems and increase efficiency by digitizing the entire transport process.

• NCR Connectivity: The budget also allocates ₹1,000 crore to improve connectivity between Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR), further integrating Delhi with neighboring areas.

5,000 New Electric Buses for a Greener Delhi

In the budget, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also announced significant measures to make Delhi environmentally clean. The government plans to introduce over 5,000 new electric buses on Delhi’s roads by 2025-26. Currently, Delhi has 12,952 buses, of which 2,152 are electric. According to the Delhi Transport Ministry, adding these new buses will increase the total number to 17,952, with 7,152 being electric. The Transport Minister stated, "Our goal is to make Delhi pollution-free. Electric buses will not only reduce pollution but also provide passengers with an affordable and comfortable travel experience." These new buses will feature modern amenities like GPS, CCTV, and comfortable seating for an enhanced passenger experience.

Addressing the previous administration's shortcomings, CM Gupta criticized the AAP government for leaving behind a ₹6,000 crore liability toward the Centre for Phase IV of the Delhi Metro, which the current government is committed to clearing. Gupta emphasized that this new budget lays the groundwork for a progressive, well-connected, and sustainable Delhi, with a strong focus on improving public transport, reducing pollution, and enhancing the city's infrastructure.

“This budget is not just about numbers, but about making Delhi a city that works better for everyone,” said CM Rekha Gupta. "Our focus is on creating a future where transport is accessible, reliable, and efficient for all Delhiites."

With strategic investments across key sectors, the 2025-26 budget establishes the foundation for a more modern and resilient Delhi, equipped to meet the growing demands of its population while fostering sustainable growth.