MCD Budget 2024-25: Garbage management to dominate allocation, workers’ compensation at risk

The AAP-led Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) appears poised to prioritize garbage management in its upcoming 2024-25 budget, aiming to tackle the pervasive issue of overflowing landfill sites throughout the city.

Last March, Delhi’s Chief Minister pledged to eliminate the towering mounds of garbage within the year, a commitment that has garnered significant attention.

Another key electoral promise was ensuring timely payment of salaries to MCD employees, a demand long voiced by disgruntled staff members. However, fulfilling this pledge may prove challenging as a substantial portion of the proposed Rs 1,500 crore allocation for workers’ salaries is earmarked for other expenses.

In a recent special House meeting convened to discuss the impending budget, AAP councillors put forth motions proposing the diversion of Rs 500 crore towards garbage management initiatives for the fiscal year 2024-25.

This move has sparked criticism from the opposition BJP, accusing the corporation of misappropriating funds allocated for essential tasks such as road maintenance, park upkeep, educational initiatives, and healthcare expenses.

The final budget for 2024-25 is scheduled to be announced on Thursday, with anticipation running high regarding the allocation of resources.

Prior to the 2022 MCD elections, Kejriwal’s campaign included ten pledges, among them the clearance of landfill sites burdened by millions of tons of accumulated waste. Other commitments focused on combating corruption within the MCD, streamlining trade licensing procedures, improving infrastructure such as roadways, and ensuring fair treatment for contractual employees.

Estimates for the 2024-25 budget indicate a proposed increase in funds allocated for garbage management, achieved by reallocating resources from other budgetary items to expedite progress towards the stated objectives.

It is asserted that redirecting these funds, particularly to the discretionary fund overseen by Mayor Shelly Oberoi, will enhance her financial authority and facilitate the execution of key initiatives.

(With PTI inputs)