Kalkaji Assembly constituency in South Delhi, despite its affluence, faces challenges like traffic congestion, poor sanitation, and neglected civic infrastructure ahead of the February 5 polls.
Represented by outgoing Chief Minister Atishi, who is seeking re-election, the constituency will see a high-stakes contest with BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri and Congress' Alka Lamba also vying for the seat. While voters appreciate the Delhi government's health and education initiatives, they demand better attention to civic issues such as potholes, garbage, and drainage problems.
Kalkaji includes diverse areas like Maharani Bagh, East of Kailash, and Govindpuri. The constituency is home to key landmarks such as the Kalkaji Mandir, Lotus Temple, and ISKCON Temple. However, while some areas remain well-maintained, others suffer from poor infrastructure, especially the roads and sewage systems.
Residents complain about overflowing drains, potholes, and a lack of sanitation services. Traffic snarls, especially during festivals, exacerbate the problems, making commuting difficult. Despite these concerns, many residents remain hopeful, citing the Aam Aadmi Party's focus on health and education as a positive.
Atishi won the seat in 2020 with a margin of 11,393 votes, defeating BJP's Dharambir Singh. This time, she faces a strong challenge from Bidhuri, a former MP and a seasoned MLA. The Delhi elections will take place on February 5, and the results will be announced on February 8.