‘Optimum utilisation of Delhi’s water resources needed to address crisis’

The situation of water supply is not expected to improve in Delhi anytime soon as renovation of Munak Canal is still underway. Experts have pointed out that even though the dependence of Delhi on water requirement from other states may not end completely, it can certainly be reduced to a great extent, if the city uses its water resources properly.

Himanshu Thakkar of South Asia Network on Dams, River and People (SANDRP) says: “There is no dearth of water resources in Delhi. However, we are not utilising it fully.”  Thakkar provided examples of degradation of the Yamuna, encroachment of its floodplains and non treatment of sewage water to cite the factors in which the city has used its water resources carelessly.”  Delhi generates about 800 million gallon per day which can be effectively utilised and brought to beneficial use. Thakkar also mentions that enough water bodies can be created from the Yamuna that if replenished well can be used in time of crisis.

Manoj Mishra of Yamuna Jiye Abhiyan also pointed out that enough effort has not been done to create water bodies like lakes, ponds from Yamuna. “The government must work on its commitment using Yamuna well and create water bodies out of it.” Experts observed that the water crisis faced in the city should now make the citizens realise the importance of the Yamuna and prevent it from further degradation. 

Amita Bhaduri from India Water Portal says: “Time has come when we must put decentralised water supply in place and colony-level treatment of waste water must be implemented. There must be a setting up of dual pipe system that involves separate pipes for drinking and domestic usage which would in turn help a great deal in cleaning up of the Yamuna.”

The experts pointed out that current must result in the government machinery to prepare for future in regards for treating its water resources.