Under the supervision of Lieutenant Governor T.S. Sandhu, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has finished desilting stormwater drains in the East, South, and North Zones, with a significant increase in dust removal exceeding 70%. The Narela, Rohini, and Dwarka Zones are nearing completion of the desilting process, as per an official statement. The DDA, led by the Lieutenant Governor, undertook this mission to bolster the city’s drainage infrastructure in preparation for the monsoon season and to enhance its ability to manage heavy rainfall effectively.
The Lieutenant Governor, also serving as the Chairman of DDA, has been actively overseeing the progress of desilting operations to prevent inconvenience to Delhi residents during heavy rains. The DDA, in alignment with his directives, has expedited on-ground activities and maintained regular progress monitoring. To streamline implementation, Delhi was divided into six operational zones, namely East, South, North, Narela, Rohini, and Dwarka, enabling focused planning and timely execution of the desilting works.
This year’s desilting efforts have showcased the DDA’s increased capacity and improved planning, with over 57,000 metric tons of silt already removed compared to around 33,380 metric tons in the previous year. The proactive desilting before the peak monsoon period is anticipated to enhance the stormwater drainage network’s capacity and ensure smoother rainwater flow. As part of its flood management strategy, the DDA has set up a Central Flood Control Room and zone-specific flood control rooms, along with a 24×7 helpline for waterlogging complaints and mobile pumping units at vulnerable spots for swift water removal.
In addition to desilting, the DDA has implemented preventive measures at waterlogging-prone sites by cleaning drains, reinforcing drainage infrastructure, installing pumping systems, and collaborating closely with other government bodies when necessary. Timely disposal of desilted material and continuous monitoring of vulnerable areas have further boosted the city’s readiness for the monsoon, aiming to enhance drainage efficiency, reduce waterlogging incidents, and ensure smoother traffic flow during the rainy season.
