The Delhi Government conducted an emergency meeting in the city today regarding the waterlogging issue due to the heavy rainfall. The meeting was chaired by Delhi Water Minister Atishi, Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, Environment Minister Gopal Rai and Civil Supplies Minister Imran Hussain.
Briefing the media after the meeting, Delhi Water Minister Atishi said that Delhi has received more rainfall than the capacity of the drains which led to waterlogging at several places. However, she noted that as soon as rain subsided the water level went down.
Talking about the mitigation strategies discussed during the meeting, Urban Development Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj said that a 24 into seven emergency control room is being set up at the Public Works Department (PWD) headquarters. He said that all the departments including PWD, Municipal Corporation of Delhi and Irrigation and Flood Control Department have been asked to check their pumps and report any defect.
Mr. Bhardwaj noted that all departments are to prepare a quick response team. The Chief Secretaries have been told to review the list of all vulnerable areas in the city. He said that due to lack of strong water drains, DJB has been asked to use recycler machines for eleven zones and contractual labour for sewer cleaning.
