Before building higher, Delhi must strengthen the city beneath its buildings

Delhi's Master Plan for 2047 seeks to accommodate an additional 3.2 crore inhabitants and construct 40 lakh more homes through redevelopment and higher-density construction around public transportation. The redevelopment threshold has been reduced, enabling regeneration at a smaller scale. Certain areas have been designated for 24-hour activity, and a Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority is being proposed.

However, higher density also means more residents, vehicles, sewage, waste, and greater demand for resources. To prevent congestion, planning must consider the hinterland's ability to support new residents and visitors.

While the plan describes itself as "infrastructure-led," its water projections show considerable uncertainty. Potable-water demand is estimated to reach 1,600 MGD by 2047, while only about 1,000 MGD is currently available. The proposed augmentation of 401 MGD would still leave a gap of 199 MGD, with 275 MGD expected from large-scale projects dependent on interstate cooperation. The drainage plan is also unclear, with multiple references to different plans being prepared.

The plan prioritizes the regeneration of unauthorised colonies, which is a necessary and humane approach. However, many existing structures lack proper safety safeguards. Higher FAR must be accompanied by credible safety audits, emergency access, open spaces, and upgraded networks. Unauthorised colonies have proliferated over the last 60 years, and without clear responsibility for prevention, stricter enforcement may not be effective.

The plan also recognizes the need for green-blue infrastructure, parks, and walking and cycling paths, but sets no clear standard for access to usable neighbourhood green space.