In response to the Supreme Court's scrutiny over tanker mafias and water wastage, Delhi Water Minister Atishi emphasised that while tackling illegal water tankers is necessary, it won't completely resolve Delhi's water shortage.
She highlighted that only a small fraction of Delhi's water supply, about 4-5 million gallons per day (MGD), is managed by tankers, and eliminating the so-called 'tanker mafia' would barely make a dent in the overall problem.
Atishi explained that the core issue lies in the inadequate water supply reaching Delhi, particularly from key sources like the Wazirabad barrage and the Munak canal.
The AAP government has implemented various measures to manage the crisis, but these efforts are insufficient without receiving the city's rightful share of water from these sources.
Inspecting the water distribution network near Akshardham, Atishi underscored the importance of maintaining and checking pipelines for leaks to prevent water wastage. She directed senior officers to patrol the pipelines alongside Jal Board staff to ensure no water is wasted during these critical times.
"We have a large network of 1,000 tankers making multiple trips daily, yet they only account for 4-5 MGD out of the total water produced in Delhi. Stopping illegal tankers can save some water, but it will not bridge the gap of 40 MGD," Atishi stated.
She further stressed that a significant reduction in tanker numbers by government officers since January has exacerbated the problem, leading to an increase in private tankers.
Atishi called on Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to take stringent action against the officers responsible for the reduction in tanker numbers, despite repeated orders to increase them. She demanded an inquiry into their actions and suggested their suspension until the investigation is complete.
The Supreme Court, on Wednesday, raised serious concerns about the ongoing water crisis and the role of tanker mafias in the national capital. A bench comprising Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra and Justice Prasanna B Varale questioned the Delhi government about the steps taken to combat these issues. The Court warned that if the Delhi government fails to act against the tanker mafias, it will direct the Delhi police to intervene.
In recent weeks, Delhi has been grappling with a severe water shortage, which has significantly disrupted daily life. This crisis has been caused by a combination of reduced water levels in the Yamuna River and technical malfunctions at crucial water treatment facilities. The resulting disruption has left many areas with little to no water supply, forcing residents to depend heavily on water tankers and borewells.
The Delhi government continues to navigate these challenges, striving to ensure an adequate water supply for its residents while addressing the systemic issues contributing to the shortage. The Supreme Court's intervention highlights the urgency and severity of the situation, prompting immediate and decisive action from the authorities.
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