“Delhi’s CM Street Light Scheme 2.0 launched to illuminate 3.7 lakh streetlights, enhance safety, and reduce energy consumption. The initiative includes LED upgrades, smart lighting systems, and real-time monitoring to address dark spots. Aimed at improving public safety, particularly for women, the scheme targets completion by 2026, transforming Delhi’s nighttime landscape.”
Delhi Launches Ambitious Street Light Scheme 2.0 for Safer, Brighter Nights
The Delhi government has rolled out the Chief Minister’s Street Light Scheme 2.0, a transformative initiative to overhaul the city’s street lighting infrastructure. Announced on July 3, 2025, by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the scheme aims to illuminate approximately 3.7 lakh streetlights across the capital, prioritizing energy efficiency and public safety. The project builds on the earlier phase, which faced criticism for inconsistent implementation, and introduces advanced technology to ensure reliable lighting.
Under the new scheme, traditional sodium-vapor lights will be replaced with energy-efficient LED fixtures, expected to reduce power consumption by 40%. The government has allocated ₹500 crore for the project, with plans to cover all municipal wards by mid-2026. A key feature is the integration of smart lighting systems, allowing real-time monitoring and remote control to address outages promptly. This technology will enable authorities to detect and fix dark spots within hours, a significant improvement over manual reporting systems.
The initiative places a strong emphasis on enhancing safety, particularly for women and children, in poorly lit areas. According to Delhi Police data from 2024, over 30% of nighttime crimes in the city occurred in areas with inadequate lighting. The government aims to eliminate these dark zones, with priority given to high-traffic areas, residential neighborhoods, and public transport hubs. “This scheme is not just about lights; it’s about empowering our citizens to feel secure at all hours,” Chief Minister Gupta said during the launch event in New Delhi.
The project also incorporates eco-friendly measures, aligning with Delhi’s sustainability goals. The LED lights are expected to reduce carbon emissions by 15,000 tonnes annually, contributing to the city’s fight against climate change. Additionally, the scheme includes a maintenance framework, with private agencies contracted for regular upkeep to ensure long-term functionality.
Local residents have welcomed the initiative, though some remain skeptical due to delays in previous infrastructure projects. “The idea is great, but we need to see consistent execution,” said Priya Sharma, a resident of Rohini. The government has assured transparency, with a dedicated portal for citizens to report lighting issues and track progress.
The scheme is part of a broader push to modernize Delhi’s infrastructure, following recent efforts to improve road networks and public transport. While the project has garnered support from urban planners, opposition parties have questioned its funding and timeline, calling for stricter oversight to prevent cost overruns. The Delhi government, however, remains optimistic, citing the success of pilot projects in areas like Dwarka and Karol Bagh, where LED installations have already improved visibility and reduced energy costs.
As the rollout begins, the focus will be on swift implementation and addressing logistical challenges in densely populated areas. With safety and sustainability at its core, the CM Street Light Scheme 2.0 promises to light up Delhi’s nights, making the capital a safer and more vibrant city.
Disclaimer: This article is based on news reports, government announcements, and publicly available data as of July 3, 2025. Information is sourced from reliable media outlets and official statements. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels for the latest updates.