Delhi nearing water catastrophe? AAP govt lock horns with bureaucracy over impending crisis

New Delhi: As Delhi stares down the barrel of a potential water crisis, a clash between the Aam Aadmi Party government and the bureaucracy unfolds in the national capital. Atishi, a minister in the Kejriwal administration, raises alarm bells, pointing fingers at the Delhi Jal Board's halted funds. Could the capital be on the brink of a severe water emergency?

Atishi, the Water Minister in the Kejriwal government, has voiced serious concerns about an imminent water crisis in Delhi. The disruption in funds allocated to the Delhi Jal Board has set the stage for a potential deepening of the water crisis, prompting Atishi to seek intervention from Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.

Atishi claims withholding of funds

At the heart of the clash is Atishi's claim that Finance Secretary Ashish C Verma has withheld funds to the Delhi Jal Board since August, allegedly on the Chief Secretary's advice. Atishi, in a letter to LG VK Saxena, demands appropriate action against Verma, holding him responsible for the impending crisis.

Atishi accuses the Delhi Jal Board of refusing funds essential for the maintenance and cleanliness required for water supply. Allegedly, this refusal has resulted in tankers declining water delivery to Delhi's slums, creating an environment ripe for an epidemic. Atishi places the blame squarely on Ashish C Verma for the unfolding situation.

In response to the crisis, Atishi claims to have sent a meeting notice at the beginning of the month, addressing the impending water crisis. As the Minister of both Water and Finance departments, she alleges that the Principal Secretary (Finance) refused the meeting, violating conduct rules.

A man-made crisis?

Atishi emphasizes the urgency of releasing funds for water and sewer-related needs, labeling the crisis as "man-made" and predicting a subsequent health crisis. She calls for the suspension of Ashish Verma and disciplinary action to avert the looming disaster.

Second installment freezed

HIghlighting the financial aspect, Atishi reveals that a budget of Rs 4,839.50 crore was allocated for the Jal Board in the 2023-24 budget estimate. While the first installment was released in May, the second, amounting to Rs 910 crore, due by October 31, remains unreleased, aggravating the water crisis.

How much water does Delhi needs?

Shedding light on Delhi's colossal water requirements which embarks at 130 crore gallons daily for a population of over two crores. With only 100 crore gallons supplied by the Water Board, the capital's water needs are precariously balanced. Insights into the city's water sources and distribution further contextualize the unfolding crisis.

With Atishi's dire warnings and accusations, the city's water supply hangs in the balance, demanding urgent intervention to avert a catastrophe.