Delhi orders urgent waterlogging inspections
Delhi orders intensive inspections of waterlogging hotspots after heavy rain caused flooding, demanding a report by August 31.
The Delhi government has ordered exhaustive inspections of waterlogging hotspots in areas managed by the Public Works Department (PWD). According to an official statement, a detailed report on the findings must be submitted by Monday, August 31.
This urgent directive follows a review meeting held earlier this week by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu with the PWD and Delhi Police. The order comes after heavy rainfall on August 24 and 25 led to significant waterlogging at various locations across the capital.
Focus on Recurrent Flooding Points
Delhi Traffic Police had previously identified 139 problematic locations. They reported 113 waterlogging spots during rainfall up to August 20, and a further 26 locations during the August 24 downpour. The recurrence of flooding at these sites has prompted the government's call for a focused field-level assessment.
The goal is to see if any additional short-term measures can be implemented using existing infrastructure and resources. PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh stated that inspections have already begun at several locations. Officers are examining drainage arrangements, outfall conditions, siltation, blockages, and pumping systems.
Senior officials have been assigned specific areas to inspect. The principal secretary will examine locations on Mehrauli-Badarpur Road. The special secretary will inspect sites on MG Road, Old Delhi-Gurugram Road, and the Mahipalpur Bypass.
Accountability and Preparedness
Minister Singh emphasized the need for proactive measures. "We will not wait for the next spell of rain to expose the same problem," he said. He stated that every recurring waterlogging point requires a clear assessment and a practical solution, with accountability, quick response, and continuous monitoring remaining a priority.
The minister further directed PWD officers to maintain close vigilance for the remainder of the monsoon season. In a move to ensure accountability, orders have been issued to provide jackets and raincoats bearing the PWD logo to all pump-house operators, PTO pump operators, and engineers. This is intended to make individuals easily identifiable so responsibility can be fixed in case of any laxity.
Chief engineers have been instructed to inspect locations within their jurisdictions, with particular attention on known trouble spots. The statement specifically named several recurrent flooding locations for emphasis.
The government statement noted that these inspections must be treated as urgent and time-bound. This is due to the possibility of further heavy rainfall during the remaining monsoon period, as reported by the Hindustan Times.
