Wed Aug 20 20:19:07 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) is repurposing 122 underutilized community halls into vocational training centers for youth and women, scheduled daily from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. This decision was made during the MCD’s Standing Committee meeting, which also approved solid waste management projects for Najafgarh. Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding garbage management, water drainage, stray dogs, school infrastructure, and staff shortages, particularly the lack of Urdu teachers. The MCD Commissioner acknowledged waste collection issues due to expiring contracts, while the chairperson addressed maintenance, building approvals, and swimming pool inspections.

**News Article:**

**Delhi to Transform Underutilized Community Halls into Vocational Training Centers**

**New Delhi, August 21, 2025** – The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) announced yesterday that it will convert 122 underutilized community halls and centers across the city into vocational training hubs aimed at empowering local youth and women. The initiative, greenlit during Wednesday’s MCD Standing Committee meeting, will offer daily sessions from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., providing opportunities for skill development and employment prospects.

The decision is part of a broader effort to revitalize public spaces and address local needs. The Standing Committee also approved two new solid waste management projects for Najafgarh, funded by the central government’s Urban Development Fund.

However, the meeting wasn’t without its challenges. Several members voiced concerns about pressing civic issues. BJP Councillor Rajpal Singh threatened resignation over persistent garbage accumulation in his ward, citing a lack of accountability from waste collection agencies. In response, MCD Commissioner Ashwini Kumar explained that expiring waste management contracts were contributing to the problem and that short-term contracts have been renewed to maintain services while new agreements are finalized.

AAP Councillor Rafia Mahir highlighted the deteriorating condition of MCD school buildings and a critical shortage of Urdu teachers, some schools not having hired Urdu teachers for 14 years.

MCD Chairperson Satya Sharma addressed the concerns, directing officials to improve public toilet maintenance, ensure transparent building approvals, and conduct regular inspections of swimming pools. The MCD aims to balance development initiatives with addressing urgent civic needs and ensuring the well-being of Delhi’s residents.

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