Environment – Delhi’s 2026–27 Budget Prioritises Clean Air and Green Growth
Environment – Delhi’s latest budget for the financial year 2026–27 places a strong emphasis on environmental protection, with a significant portion of funds directed toward reducing pollution and improving overall urban sustainability. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta introduced what has been described as a “green-focused” financial plan, allocating a notable share of the total expenditure to eco-friendly initiatives across multiple sectors.
Major Share Directed Toward Environmental Goals
Out of the total budget outlay of Rs 1,03,700 crore, approximately Rs 22,236 crore has been reserved for green projects. This accounts for over one-fifth of the entire budget, indicating a clear shift in governance priorities toward environmental concerns. The funding will be implemented through 17 different departments, each assigned specific responsibilities to ensure coordinated execution.
According to the government, all departmental expenditures will now be evaluated based on their environmental impact. This approach aims to integrate sustainability into everyday governance rather than treating it as a separate agenda.
Yamuna Clean-Up and Water Infrastructure Lead Allocations
A substantial portion of the green budget has been assigned to improving water quality and infrastructure. The Delhi Jal Board has received the largest allocation, amounting to Rs 6,485 crore. This funding will primarily support efforts to clean the Yamuna River and expand water treatment capacity across the city.
Officials believe that strengthening water infrastructure is essential not only for public health but also for long-term environmental balance. The move is expected to accelerate ongoing projects aimed at reducing untreated waste discharge into the river.
Push for Cleaner Public Transport
The Transport Department has been allocated Rs 4,758 crore to expand the fleet of electric buses and improve sustainable mobility. This investment reflects the government’s intent to reduce vehicular emissions, which remain a major contributor to air pollution in the capital.
By increasing the number of electric buses and enhancing public transport systems, authorities aim to encourage residents to shift away from private vehicles, thereby lowering overall pollution levels.
Infrastructure Development to Address Dust Pollution
The Public Works Department has been granted Rs 3,350 crore to focus on dust control measures and the development of green infrastructure. Construction-related dust has long been identified as a significant source of air pollution in Delhi, and targeted interventions are expected to mitigate its impact.
In addition, the Planning Department will oversee project design and coordination with an allocation of Rs 2,350 crore, ensuring that green initiatives are implemented efficiently and without overlap.
Support for Renewable Energy and Urban Development
The Power Department has been allotted Rs 1,410 crore to promote solar energy and other renewable sources. This includes incentives for cleaner energy adoption and improvements in energy efficiency across public systems.
Meanwhile, the Urban Development Department, along with the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board, will receive a combined Rs 2,273 crore. These funds will be used for urban renewal projects that incorporate environmentally sustainable practices.
Focus on Conservation, Education, and Rural Growth
Several smaller but important allocations have also been made under a dedicated Green Fund. The Environment Department will receive Rs 558 crore for pollution control initiatives, while the Irrigation and Flood Control Department has been given Rs 305 crore for water conservation efforts.
The Forest Department has been allocated Rs 181 crore to support afforestation and wildlife conservation programs. In addition, Rs 100 crore has been set aside for environmental initiatives in schools, highlighting the role of education in promoting sustainability.
Rural development will also benefit, with Rs 258 crore allocated to encourage environmentally friendly practices in non-urban areas.
Broader Sectoral Contributions to Sustainability
Other departments have received targeted funding to address specific environmental challenges. The Industries Department will use Rs 42 crore to tackle industrial pollution, while the Health Department has been allotted Rs 31 crore to improve environmental conditions in healthcare facilities.
Further allocations include Rs 23 crore for disaster management under the Revenue Department, Rs 7 crore for green skill development, and Rs 2 crore for environmental research in higher education institutions.
Overall, the budget outlines a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach to tackling pollution and promoting sustainable development in Delhi.