Delhi plans to step up funding for upkeep of parks and gardens

RWAs, NGOs and societies may get up to 100% grant

Maintenance support proposed to rise from ₹2.55 lakh to ₹3.8 lakh per acre

One-time assistance for new parks and upgrades also set to increase

Strengthening Delhi’s green cover a top priority: CM Rekha Gupta

New Delhi, May 2026 : Under the leadership of Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, the Delhi Government is considering comprehensive revisions to the financial assistance provided for parks and gardens, with the aim of further strengthening and expanding the capital’s green cover while encouraging community participation. The proposed increase in the financial aid, disbursed through the Delhi Parks and Gardens Society to Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and registered societies, seeks to enhance the quality, maintenance, and long-term preservation of the city’s green spaces. The Chief Minister stated that this initiative by the Delhi Government will not only expand the green cover within the capital but also aid in pollution control and lead to a positive improvement in the overall urban environment.

Maintenance support likely to see a significant hike

Acknowledging rising costs and higher labour wages, the government has proposed increasing annual maintenance assistance from ₹2.55 lakh per acre to ₹3.8 lakh per acre. This, officials say, will help ensure better cleanliness, irrigation and preservation of greenery.

Shift to 100% government funding

The existing 90:10 cost-sharing model is set to be scrapped, with the government proposing to fully fund eligible projects. Under the current system, organisations contribute 10% of the total cost, which has often discouraged smaller groups with limited resources from participating. The proposed shift to 100% funding is expected to widen participation and allow more RWAs and local bodies to take part without financial constraints, leading to better upkeep and development of a larger number of parks.

Boost for development of new parks

The government also plans to raise one-time financial assistance for the development of new parks from ₹1 lakh per acre to ₹2.9 lakh per acre. The move is seen as significant in the face of rapid urbanisation, especially for newly developed colonies and densely populated areas where green spaces are limited.

Well-planned parks not only enhance a city’s visual appeal but also have a direct impact on residents’ physical and mental well-being, the Chief Minister said. In a city grappling with rising temperatures, pollution and a fast-paced lifestyle, parks offer clean air, a sense of calm and opportunities for community interaction.

Additional support for upgrading existing parks

The government is also considering one-time grants for improving existing parks. Based on requests from RWAs and societies, assistance of up to ₹2.5 lakh per acre may be provided for facilities such as display boards, dustbins and UPVC irrigation pipelines. Officials believe these measures will make parks cleaner, better organised and more sustainable, while also improving access to quality public green spaces and strengthening ecological balance.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said building a robust and sustainable green network remains a key priority for the government. She emphasised that long-term upkeep of public spaces is only possible with active community involvement. The proposed measures are designed to empower RWAs and local organisations to take greater responsibility in maintaining neighbourhood parks. The initiative, she added, aligns with the vision of a ‘Viksit Delhi’, where modern infrastructure goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability and improved quality of life.