In a move to prepare for the monsoon season, Delhi’s Irrigation and Flood Control Minister, Parvesh Sahib Singh, conducted an inspection of desilting work at the Delhi Gate drain and the Barapulla drain. The ongoing efforts to address waterlogging in the capital before the rains were emphasized during the visit. Desilting progress at the Delhi Gate drain has exceeded 70%, with more than 21,000 metric tonnes of silt already removed.
The Minister noted the rapid pace of work, with visible deployment of machinery and manpower on the ground. He highlighted that the desilting process is not just about cleaning drains but also about rectifying years of neglect to ensure Delhi’s readiness for the upcoming monsoon. At the Barapulla drain, desilting work is close to 78% completion, with over 31,000 metric tonnes of silt cleared.
A significant development is the opening up of the Delhi Gate drain, which had been covered with slabs for about four decades. This move allows for thorough cleaning and restoration of its capacity, addressing the long-standing issue of waterlogging in the vicinity. The Minister shared that nearly half of the identified 77 drains have undergone desilting, with more than 14 lakh metric tonnes of silt removed so far.
Reviewing the progress of the Irrigation & Flood Control Department (IFCD) drains, the Minister disclosed that the department has completed almost 50% of the desilting work, aiming to remove 28 lakh metric tonnes of silt within the set timelines. The focus remains on early initiation, urgent execution, and timely completion of desilting activities. The advancements at Barapulla and Delhi Gate drains are expected to alleviate waterlogging issues in areas like Daryaganj, Jama Masjid, Feroz Shah Road, ITO, South Extension, and Okhla during the monsoon.
Emphasizing the importance of closely monitoring this year’s desilting operations throughout the monsoon, the Minister highlighted the accountability at all levels to prevent delays and ensure quality work.
