Delhi Gears Up for International Summits: Aesthetic Overhaul on the Cards

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is taking major steps to prepare for two upcoming international summits, initiating an operation to relocate homeless individuals. The agency is coordinating with multiple entities, including the Delhi Police, Public Works Department (PWD), and Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), to shift people residing under flyovers and on footpaths to shelter homes.

According to a communication dated May 4, the exercise is in preparation for the India-Africa Forum Summit 2026 and the International Big Cats Alliance Summit, set to take place at the Bharat Mandapam from May 28 to June 1. The letter cites sanitation issues and compromised aesthetics as reasons for the relocation and highlights the presence of heads of state and international representatives during the events.

A comprehensive effort is underway to improve city presentation, with special focus on key roads and public spaces that connect to summit venues, markets, hotels, and heritage sites. The MCD has mandated that all beautification and sanitation tasks be completed in advance. Agencies are instructed to ensure these areas remain clean and re-encroachment does not occur.

(With inputs from agencies.)