Delhi is in the throes of a water crisis that has sparked widespread consternation among its citizens. Desperate for each drop, residents are protesting with empty vessels across the city. Long queues form for water tankers, a sight unbeknownst to Delhi just years prior. The government has convened an emergency meeting in response to the escalating situation.
In Vasant Vihar's Kusumpur Pahari, people bear the scorching sun to line up for water. With most men at work, women shoulder the burden of securing water for their households. Some locals even queue up overnight, such is their plight.
Protests have erupted in numerous localities, where people, driven to despair by the lack of water, have taken to the streets against the Delhi government. Women, particularly tasked with water collection, have symbolically smashed pots in defiance.
Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj noted that both the Wazirabad and Okhla plants are operating below capacity. Delhi produces 1000 million gallons per day (MGD) but needs around 1250 MGD. He suggests reviewing decisions made 30 years ago to adequately meet Delhi's water needs today.
Water Minister inspects UGR sites
Delhi's Water Minister Atishi previously inspected three Underground Reservoirs (UGRs) and the IP Estate Tanker Filling Station. Directing officials, she emphasized the need to prevent water wastage and mandated immediate dispatch of water tankers to the most desperately in need areas.
Source: aajtak
Fines imposed to curb water wastage in Delhi
Amidst the crisis, the AAP government has resolved to deploy 200 teams to prevent water wastage. Patrols will visit various districts from 8 AM, fining those found wasting water, targeting illegal connections, and penalizing wasteful practices like car washing and overflow from household water tanks. Stern measures have also been announced against those using domestic water supplies for construction or commercial purposes.
BJP holds AAP accountable for water crisis
The BJP blames the AAP government for Delhi's water woes. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva asserts the government failed to take preemptive action, leading to widespread problems from Sangam Vihar to Bawana and from Kondli to Bijwasan. The current administration's lack of foresight has left residents struggling for basic needs.
