In the wake of heavy rains in Delhi, Flood Control Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh defended the city’s drainage system while criticizing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) for allegedly misleading the public about waterlogging issues. Following a week of rainfall, which resulted in traffic disruptions and reports of standing water in various localities, Singh emphasized that the temporary water accumulation should not be mischaracterized as waterlogging.
“The natural drainage process takes time, contingent upon the system’s capacity,” Singh explained. “Waterlogging occurs when water stagnates for four to five hours after rainfall has ceased. In most areas, our drainage infrastructure is functioning effectively.” He also highlighted the Delhi government’s proactive measures during the monsoon season, asserting that systems implemented since the administration took charge are successfully operating.
In stark contrast, AAP leaders demanded urgent government action, calling for a special Assembly session to address issues regarding the desilting of drains. AAP member Sanjeev Jha criticized the government’s claims, stating that many drains remain blocked. “In just a few monsoon showers, the government’s four engines of administration have drowned. They have utterly failed to manage waterlogging in Delhi,” Jha asserted at a press conference while presenting videos showing flooded streets in areas such as Shalimar Bagh, which is home to Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Jha further alleged that water remained stagnant for two to three hours post-rainfall. “Promises of a waterlogging-free monsoon were made, but the reality is stark for Delhi’s residents,” he added, also noting that nearly 40% of the Public Works Department’s drains, along with 30% of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi’s, have not been desilted. He argued that a special Assembly session would facilitate transparency on these critical issues.
Singh took to the water, inspecting the Yamuna River at Palla, the entry point to Delhi from Haryana. He noted that the river’s water appeared clean in Palla but turned muddy as it flowed into the capital. “Our goal is to maintain the river’s cleanliness within the city, mirroring its quality at the entry point,” he stated. Singh mentioned that water samples have been taken for testing and that a meeting with relevant officials was held to mitigate potential flood risks from the Yamuna this year.
The ongoing discourse between the government and AAP reflects deeper tensions over urban management and infrastructure readiness during the monsoon season. As Delhi grapples with these challenges, both parties continue to exchange accusations, with public perception sharply divided.
With the rainy season still underway, residents are left watching closely how the government will respond to infrastructure demands and whether the city’s systems will improve to prevent further waterlogging incidents. As the debate rages, residents hope for practical solutions that will enhance the city’s flood resiliency and overall drainage capacity.
This ongoing dialogue underscores the need for efficient urban planning and regular maintenance of drainage systems in Delhi, as the city navigates the complexities of monsoon rains.
Published – July 14, 2025
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/drainage-systems-in-most-of-delhi-working-fine-parvesh/article69808221.ece
Category : Delhi
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Publish Date: 2025-07-14 01:38:00
