New Delhi: The Delhi government has approved a major infrastructure upgrade project to replace existing street lighting with smart LED systems across the capital. The ₹473.24 crore initiative aims to modernize street lighting, improve public safety, and significantly reduce electricity consumption.
The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, marking a key step under the city’s budget 2026–27 commitments.
96,000 Street Lights to Be Replaced with Smart LED System
Under the project, nearly 96,000 existing street lights across Public Works Department (PWD) roads will be replaced with smart LED lights.
At present, the network includes around:
- 45,000 high-pressure sodium vapor (HPSV) lights
- 51,000 existing LED lights
- Over 51,160 lighting poles
The new system will unify the entire network under energy-efficient smart LED technology.
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Centralised Command and Control Centre for Real-Time Monitoring
A key feature of the project will be the establishment of a Centralised Command and Control Centre (CCC), which will enable real-time monitoring of all street lights across Delhi.
The system will allow authorities to:
- Detect faults instantly
- Remotely control street lights
- Adjust brightness levels up to 90%
- Improve maintenance response time
Officials said this upgrade will eliminate long-standing issues of delayed repairs and uneven lighting across the city.
Enhanced Safety and Elimination of Dark Spots
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the existing street lighting system has several limitations, including lack of real-time monitoring and frequent dark spots in several areas.
The new smart LED system is expected to:
- Eliminate dark spots across major roads
- Improve women’s safety at night
- Reduce road accidents
- Ensure uniform lighting quality across the city
The initiative aims to make Delhi’s streets safer and more energy efficient.
₹25 Crore Annual Electricity Savings Expected
The government estimates that the new LED-based lighting system will result in annual electricity savings of approximately ₹25 crore.
Officials highlighted that over a five-year period, the project will significantly reduce power expenditure compared to the existing system, making it a cost-effective long-term investment.
5,000 Additional Poles to Strengthen Coverage
To improve coverage in uncovered and developing areas, the project also includes the installation of 5,000 additional street light poles.
This expansion will ensure better illumination in newly developed zones and high-traffic areas across the city.
Project to Be Completed by Diwali
The Chief Minister said the government aims to complete the entire project by Diwali, ensuring that Delhi is fully illuminated during the festive season.
PWD Minister Pravesh Sahib Singh also suggested giving the project a dedicated name, a proposal that received approval from the Chief Minister during the meeting.
Step Toward a Smart and Energy-Efficient Delhi
Officials said the initiative is part of the government’s broader vision to transform Delhi into a safer, smarter, and energy-efficient capital through modern infrastructure upgrades and technology-driven governance.
