New Delhi: In a bold and unannounced move, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, accompanied by NDMC Vice-Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal, conducted a surprise inspection of the Sarojini Nagar government housing complexes earlier today. The visit, aimed at reviewing the progress of the redevelopment projects and addressing public concerns, caught local officials and contractors off guard.
The inspection is part of a broader push by the central government to ensure transparency, timely completion, and quality control in infrastructure projects across the national capital. Sarojini Nagar, one of Delhi’s key redevelopment zones under the Central Government’s General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) scheme, has been under the spotlight due to delays and quality issues reported by residents and stakeholders.
Manohar Lal Khattar, who recently assumed charge of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, is clearly wasting no time in getting hands-on. The minister was seen interacting directly with workers on the ground, checking construction quality, examining sanitation facilities, and speaking to engineers about timelines.
Addressing the media after the inspection, Khattar expressed his concern over certain areas where construction appeared to be lagging. “We are committed to providing modern, safe, and well-equipped housing for our government employees. Any delay or compromise in quality is unacceptable. These projects are being monitored closely, and necessary corrective actions will be taken wherever required,” he said.
NDMC Vice-Chairman Kuljeet Singh Chahal echoed the minister’s sentiments. “Redevelopment projects like these are not just about buildings—they represent a vision for a more livable and efficient urban future. The NDMC is fully aligned with the Ministry’s objectives and will ensure that these complexes are delivered on time and meet the highest standards,” Chahal said.
During the visit, both officials inspected key amenities such as elevators, water tanks, waste management systems, and fire safety installations. Special attention was paid to the green cover and landscaping, which have been highlighted as priorities in the new urban development plans. The minister also interacted with a few residents and on-site staff to gather first-hand feedback.
Interestingly, Khattar emphasized the importance of adopting sustainable construction practices, urging builders and project managers to incorporate eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. “Urban development must be smart and sustainable. From rainwater harvesting to solar panels, these features should be non-negotiable in today’s context,” he stated.
The Sarojini Nagar redevelopment project, which includes over 6,000 residential units along with commercial and community facilities, is a major component of the government’s larger plan to modernize outdated housing colonies in central Delhi. Other locations under this redevelopment umbrella include Netaji Nagar, Nauroji Nagar, Kasturba Nagar, and Thyagraj Nagar.
As Delhi continues to evolve into a smarter, greener city, the pressure is on the government and its agencies to deliver results that match the vision. If today’s inspection is anything to go by, accountability and action seem to be the new buzzwords driving the capital’s transformation.
