Delhi Opens 40-Year Covered Drain in Major Pre-Monsoon Desilting Push

The visit highlighted both the scale and seriousness of efforts underway to tackle waterlogging in the capital before the onset of rains, said an official statement.​

The Minister said that desilting at the Delhi Gate drain has already crossed 70 per cent, with over 21,000 metric tonnes of silt removed so far.​

"The work is progressing at a fast pace, with visible on-ground deployment of machinery and manpower," he said.​

"This is not just about cleaning drains; it is about correcting years of neglect and ensuring that Delhi is prepared before the rains arrive. The Delhi Gate drain, which remained covered for nearly 40 years, is now finally being opened and cleaned properly. This will make a real difference on the ground," he said.​

He said at the Barapulla drain, desilting work is nearing 78 per cent completion, with more than 31,000 metric tonnes of silt cleared.​

In a major development, the Delhi Gate drain, which had remained covered with slabs for nearly 40 years, is now being opened up for thorough cleaning.​

For decades, the covered structure had severely restricted proper desilting, contributing to repeated waterlogging in nearby areas. ​

For the first time in 40 years, slabs are being dismantled to allow complete access to the drain, enabling deep cleaning and restoring its carrying capacity, the statement said.​

Reviewing the overall progress of Irrigation & Flood Control Department (IFCD) drains, the Minister informed that out of 77 identified drains, nearly 50 per cent desilting has already been completed, with more than 14 lakh metric tonnes of silt removed so far. ​

The department has set a target of 28 lakh metric tonnes, and work is being carried out continuously to meet this goal within timelines.​

Parvesh Sahib Singh said, "Our focus is clear: start early, work with urgency, and complete desilting on time. The progress at Barapulla and Delhi Gate shows that work is happening seriously, not just on paper. With both these drains being strengthened, areas like Daryaganj, Jama Masjid, Feroz Shah Road, ITO, South Extension, and Okhla are expected to get significant relief from waterlogging this monsoon."​

The Minister emphasised that desilting work across the rains this year is being closely monitored with accountability at every level to avoid delays and ensure quality execution.​

- IANS