From sanitation and water supply to waste management and drainage, Delhi’s civic issues paint a picture of systemic neglect. The larger failures in governance and infrastructure remain glaringly evident.
Our national capital holds the unique distinction where successive governments led by the BJP, Congress, and AAP have failed to provide basic civic amenities to the people
As the February 2025 Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, civic issues across the city have come under the spotlight, revealing a glaring gap between political promises and ground realities. From improper sanitation in VIP areas to water contamination in the outskirts, the city’s residents continue to struggle with challenges that compromise their health, safety, and quality of life. Despite some noteworthy initiatives like Mohalla Clinics, systemic problems in waste management, drainage, and water supply continue to persist, leaving voters increasingly frustrated.
Slum dwellers in this constituency face the brunt of poor waste management, with garbage often dumped indiscriminately and left unattended for days.
In almost one third of the city, there has been an ambitious project to provide sewerage and potable water facilities. However, to no avail as most roads in unauthorised parts of Delhi are still dug up or awaiting water and sewerage connection. Years after sewer lines were laid, they remain non-operational, forcing locals to rely on unsafe methods for waste disposal. Adding to the woes are poorly maintained roads riddled with potholes, making everyday commutes hazardous.
Opposition parties have been quick to criticize the AAP government as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Jal Board and Public Works Department are all directly controlled by the Delhi government. Both the Congress and BJP are expected to highlight these issues as they seek to sway voters ahead of the 5 February polling.
Whether voters decide to make civic mismanagement a key issue, however, will only become clear on 8 February, the day the results will be declared.
