New Delhi

The national capital is set for a major civic makeover as the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) intensifies preparations for the India AI Impact Summit 2026, scheduled to be held in February.

Conceived as a global platform on inclusive artificial intelligence, the summit will bring together world leaders, policymakers, innovators, and AI experts, placing New Delhi at the centre of international attention.

Aiming to deliver a G20-level experience, NDMC has initiated a comprehensive civic revamp across its jurisdiction to showcase India’s technological strength, urban excellence, and hospitality. The initiatives are being undertaken under the directions of the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi, to leave a lasting impression of a modern, efficient, and welcoming capital.

The preparations focus on large-scale infrastructure upgrades, beautification, cleanliness drives, enhanced civic amenities, and seamless operational readiness. Special attention is being given to areas around Bharat Mandapam—the venue for the inaugural event on February 19—along with five-star hotels, major roundabouts, heritage buildings, gardens, and public spaces likely to be visited by international delegates.

All 41 avenue roads under NDMC’s jurisdiction have been inspected by senior officials, following which responsibilities were assigned to address gaps in preparedness. A detailed action plan has been rolled out to upgrade key road stretches connecting the airport, Bharat Mandapam, tourist hubs, and diplomatic zones. Measures include repairing potholes and footpaths, restoring damaged infrastructure, upgrading signage, repainting central verges, eliminating dark spots, and improving road safety and aesthetics.

The revamp also covers venues hosting pre-summit and bilateral engagements, such as Hyderabad House, Vigyan Bhawan, Ambedkar Bhawan, Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, major hotels, and the India Gate precinct. Roads leading to Connaught Place, Central Park, Lodhi Garden, Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi Haat, and Nehru Park are also being comprehensively upgraded.

Cleanliness and beautification form the cornerstone of the preparations. The Horticulture Department has been tasked with enhancing visual appeal through flowering and ornamental plants at prominent locations. Sculptures, fountains, and public art installations are being refurbished, while intensified sanitation measures are targeting garbage-prone areas.

NDMC has launched a large-scale deep-cleaning drive titled “Operation Clean”, covering all 14 NDMC circles, beginning with Connaught Place. High-pressure jetting machines, sanitation staff, and supervisory officers are conducting daily cleaning operations to remove accumulated dust, grease, and pollutants from corridors, footpaths, and kerbstones.

To improve air quality during the summit, NDMC is deploying smog guns, mist sprayers, and water sprinklers, along with strict enforcement against polluters. Decorative and aesthetic lighting is also being planned to enhance the city’s ambience.

As part of public engagement initiatives, Central Park at Connaught Place has been allocated to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology from February 16 to 20, where leading AI companies will host interactive stalls and demonstrations.

Operational readiness remains a key priority, with NDMC setting up a dedicated control room, deploying nodal officers, coordinating with security and traffic agencies, and intensifying measures to manage parking, logistics, and stray animals in sensitive areas.

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Through these concerted efforts, NDMC aims to not only meet but exceed the benchmarks set during the G20 Summit, presenting New Delhi as a city that reflects India’s innovation, aspirations, and global leadership as it hosts the India AI Impact Summit 2026.