‘Water Crisis in Delhi: Over 2 crore residents left without drinking water, L-G urges Kejriwal for action’
New Delhi, April 16 (IANS) – Delhi Lieutenant Governor (L-G) V.K. Saxena has expressed concern over the lack of drinking water supply in the national capital, as more than two crore people are reportedly deprived of access to clean water. In a letter to Chief Minister Arvid Kejriwal, the L-G highlighted the failure of the Delhi government’s policies in ensuring water supply to the citizens.
According to the L-G, the Economic Survey 2023-24 revealed alarming facts about the water shortage in Delhi. Despite a marginal increase in water treatment capacity from 906 MGD to 946 MGD over the last decade, the population surged by 15 percent, leading to an overall shortfall of about 290 MGD in water supply. The L-G also raised concerns about the mismanagement of groundwater extraction in the city.
The L-G pointed out that 7 percent of households in Delhi, equivalent to 20 lakh people, still do not receive piped water supply. He also highlighted the substantial debt burden of Rs 73,000 crores on the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) due to financial mismanagement. The L-G acknowledged the challenges in communicating directly with the Chief Minister but emphasized the urgency of addressing the water crisis in Delhi.
The L-G criticized the Delhi government for scapegoating officials and failing to take responsibility for the water supply crisis. He cited the Finance Minister Atishi’s acknowledgement of the government’s inefficiency over the past decade, as indicated in a recent note. The L-G highlighted the significant increase in the percentage of “unaccounted for water” in Delhi, which has worsened over the years due to neglect and mismanagement.
In comparison to other cities like Singapore, Chennai, Mumbai, and Pune, Delhi’s water management system lags behind significantly, with a high percentage of water losses and inefficiencies. The L-G emphasized the need for immediate action to address the water supply challenges in Delhi and called for accountability and effective management to ensure access to clean drinking water for all residents.
