Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has unveiled the ambitious Delhi Master Plan 2047 (MPD 2047), proposing a transformative vision for the capital's urban development. The plan introduces concepts such as round-the-clock city zones, a massive expansion of the metro network, and updated development norms for various areas.
24-Hour City Vision & New Development Rules
A key highlight of MPD 2047 is the proposal to establish '24-hour city' zones. These areas are designed to operate around the clock, supported by continuous transportation services, with a particular emphasis on metro connectivity. This initiative aims to foster a dynamic urban environment, encouraging economic activity and social engagement at all hours.
The plan also introduces specific provisions for low-density development zones. These include mandates for wider internal roads, measuring 18 meters in width, and master trunk roads with a 45-meter Right of Way (ROW). To manage congestion effectively, open spaces will be required along plots situated on both sides of 15-to-18-meter internal roads.
Regarding land use in these low-density zones, farmhouses will not be permitted on plots smaller than 2.5 acres. A framework for plots carved out in these zones ensures that owners receive Transferable Development Rights (TDR) and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) entitlements based on a standard 2.5-acre benchmark, even if their plot is smaller.
Infrastructure Expansion & Housing Targets
Delhi's public transport infrastructure is set for a significant overhaul. The city's metro network, currently spanning approximately 416 km, is projected to expand to an impressive 695 km by 2047. Beyond the metro, the public transport system will be bolstered with an increased fleet of buses and the addition of six new Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridors.
To accommodate a projected population of 3.20 crore (32 million) by 2047, the plan includes provisions for 30-40 lakh (3-4 million) new flats. The Transit Oriented Development Policy will play a crucial role in promoting affordable housing solutions, leveraging development around transport hubs.
Economic Growth & Environmental Protection
MPD 2047 aims to stimulate economic growth by removing building height restrictions in most areas, with exceptions for certain designated locations. It also formally recognizes new economy sectors, including data centers, co-working spaces, and cloud kitchens, integrating them into urban planning frameworks.
Environmental protection remains a core focus. The plan outlines measures to safeguard critical ecological zones, with approximately 180 square kilometers of the Yamuna floodplains and the Ridge area designated for protection amidst ongoing development. This ensures that Delhi's growth is balanced with ecological preservation.
Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, at a joint press conference with Delhi Lieutenant Governor T S Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, emphasized that the Master Plan 2047 is aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. It transitions urban planning from a regulatory approach to a development-focused framework, designed to encourage investment, foster innovation, and create new job opportunities, making Delhi a world-class, inclusive, and economically vibrant city.