New Delhi: A major urban development plan has been approved for the Delhi-NCR region, involving the creation of four new greenfield cities and expansion of the Namo Bharat rail network to improve regional connectivity and reduce congestion.
The decisions were taken in a meeting of the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) chaired by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.
Four Greenfield Cities Planned Under NCR Plan 2041
The proposed cities will be developed under the NCR Regional Plan 2041, focusing on sustainable and planned urban growth.
Key highlights include:
- Development of four new greenfield cities across NCR states
- Utilisation of vacant and undeveloped land for new urban hubs
- Investment support of around ₹5,000 crore
- States have been asked to submit development proposals
- Future planning also includes a “sub-city” in outer Delhi
Officials clarified that these “Namo cities” will be designed as modern urban centers with integrated infrastructure and long-term planning.
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Major Expansion of Namo Bharat Rail Network
To ease traffic congestion and improve regional connectivity, the government has proposed a significant expansion of the Namo Bharat network.
Planned developments include:
- Connecting four major cities in each NCR state through the rapid rail system
- Strengthening integration between metro and regional transport networks
- An estimated investment of around ₹5,000 crore
The expansion aims to provide faster, more efficient travel options across the rapidly growing NCR region.
Strict Action on Old Vehicles to Curb Pollution
A key environmental decision taken in the meeting focuses on reducing air pollution in NCR.
The plan includes:
- Phasing out BS-1, BS-2, and BS-3 category vehicles
- Sending old vehicles for scrapping under a structured policy
- Promoting adoption of BS-6 compliant vehicles
- Officials stated that nearly 40% of pollution is caused by old vehicles
The government is preparing a new policy framework to implement the transition in a phased manner.
Forest Areas Will Not Be Disturbed
The Union Minister emphasized that no compromise will be made on existing forest areas during infrastructure development.
This assurance was given to ensure that urban expansion and environmental protection proceed in balance.
Integrated Urban and Transport Development Vision
The NCRPB meeting highlighted a long-term vision of:
- Planned urban expansion through greenfield cities
- Strong regional connectivity via Namo Bharat corridors
- Cleaner air through stricter vehicle emission policies
- Sustainable land use without disturbing forest zones
The initiative is expected to reshape the future growth pattern of the National Capital Region.
The combined plan for greenfield city development, transport expansion, and pollution control marks a significant step toward transforming NCR into a more sustainable and connected urban region under the NCR Plan 2041 framework.
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