DDA accelerates desilting of storm water drains ahead of monsoon; 70% work completed
New Delhi, June 9
Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, who has been personally monitoring the desilting operations being undertaken by various agencies, especially the Delhi Development Authority, was informed that an extensive desilting drive of storm water drains under DDA's jurisdiction has been undertaken to ensure monsoon preparedness and minimize the risk of waterlogging across the city.
According to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the desilting work was initiated well in advance as per the directions of the LG, with the objective of ensuring smooth drainage of rainwater, preventing flooding of roads, reducing traffic congestion, maintaining hygiene, and improving the overall upkeep of public infrastructure during the monsoon season in the national capital.
As part of this drive, the DDA is carrying out desilting of 69 kilometres of stormwater drains in Narela and 192 kilometres of stormwater drains in Dwarka. The work involves the removal of accumulated silt, debris, vegetation, and other obstructions that hinder the free flow of rainwater.
The desilting operations are progressing in a mission mode, and approximately 70 per cent of the work has already been completed. LG has directed that the remaining work be completed by 15 June 2026, before the onset of the monsoon, the release said.
The release stated that regular inspections and monitoring are being carried out by DDA officials to ensure timely completion and adherence to quality standards. The initiative is expected to significantly improve drainage efficiency, reduce instances of waterlogging, and facilitate smoother traffic movement during the rainy season.
Lieutenant Governor had earlier instructed that, to ensure that people in the national capital do not face the waterlogging issue, the DDA must undertake a comprehensive desilting exercise in a mission mode.
The Delhi Development Authority remains committed to strengthening urban infrastructure and ensuring that all necessary measures are in place to provide a safe, clean and convenient environment for the residents of Delhi during the monsoon season, the release added.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Dwarka resident here. The drains near Sector 6 have been clogged for years. Let's hope this time the desilting actually works and doesn't just become a photo-op. Actions speak louder than words.
Good to see Delhi taking monsoon preparedness seriously. The 15 June deadline is smart – gives a buffer before the heavy rains. Hope other cities learn from this approach.
Mission mode sounds good but what about the drains under MCD and PWD? DDA alone can't solve Delhi's waterlogging. Need coordination between all agencies. Still, chalo, positive step hai.
Every year we hear the same story. Let's see if this time the drains actually work. In Narela, the situation gets really bad near the industrial areas. Keeping fingers crossed but cautiously optimistic. 🙂
Impressive scale – 261 km of drains across Narela and Dwarka. The real test will be during heavy downpours. Regular maintenance after this is equally important.
Good initiative but what about the encroachments on drains? Desilting is only half the battle. If people keep dumping garbage, it'll get clogged again. Need public awareness and strict fines.
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