In its first Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) meeting under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the BJP government has approved infrastructure projects worth Rs 40 billion, with a sharp focus on cleaning the Yamuna and building a high-security prison in Narela. Of the total outlay, Rs 3.14 billion has been earmarked for constructing 27 decentralised sewage treatment plants (STPs) and laying sewer lines across the city. The goal: stop untreated wastewater from entering the Yamuna and tackle Delhi’s growing water pollution crisis. The STPs—spread across areas like Wajidpur Thakran, Mundka, Narela, Bawana, and Tikri Kalan—will be set up in 18 months. The project includes household sewer connections, maintenance contracts, and other technical upgrades, all aimed at improving groundwater recharge and eliminating foul odours in residential pockets. The committee also cleared Rs 1 billion for setting up electric bus charging stations at multiple depots in Dwarka and ISBTs and Rs 1.48 billion for a new high-security prison in Narela. The facility, to be built over 40 acres, will house 256 inmates and eventually replace the overcrowded Tihar jail. Gupta reaffirmed the government's commitment to restoring the Yamuna, calling it “a responsibility to future generations” and instructing departments to execute the plan in mission mode with modern technology.Image source:bhaskarenglish