Most Delhi localities to get DJB piped water supply by 2010

New Delhi, Jan 16 (UNI) Most of the localities in Delhi would be connected with DJB drinking water pipeline with the commencement of Commonwealth Games, the Delhi resident welfare associations (RWAs) were informed today.

During a meeting held between the associations and Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit at the Delhi secretariat this evening, the RWAs were told that 500 low floor DTC buses would ply on the Delhi roads by July, 2008 and AC low floor buses would also be available within the next few months.

Issues relating to water, electricity, transport, MCD and Bhagidari Movement were discussed during the four-hour long interaction held by the Chief Minister with 200 representatives of the RWAs Federation and Joint Front.

Topmost officers of various Departments were also present.

Speaking at the meeting, CEO of Delhi Jal Board also informed RWAs that most of the localities in Delhi would be connected with DJB drinking water pipeline with the commencement of the Commonwealth Games.

He further said the DJB would be able to supply additional 45 MGD drinking water by July, 2008 and Sonia Vihar Water Treatment Plant would also function upto its maximum capacity of 140 MGD.

The DTC CMD Ansu Prakash said 500 low floor DTC buses would ply on the roads by July, 2008 and AC low floor buses would also be available within few months. A mass recruitment drive is also on to recruit 10,000 drivers. Comprehensive facelift is being given to all DTC bus shelters.

The Power Secretary stated that all the three Distcoms would remain in contact with RWAs and Government would consider bringing these companies under the purview of RTI.

It would also be ensured that no sincere, honest and law-abiding customer faces harassment.

At the meeting, the representatives of RWAs presented number of suggestions which included provision of playgrounds for children, pruning of trees, parking problems and formal legal status for their RWAs. There was no such complaint about supply of water and electricity though there was little resentment about functioning of Distcoms.

Ms Dikshit said the feedback received from RWA representatives would prove to be crucial in making better public utility services.

A separate meeting of various senior officers would be convened to chalk out a plan of action on suggestions and difficulties submitted by the RWAs.

She added that office bearers under the Bhagidari movement have immensely contributed in changing picture of Delhi and making the city-government transparent and accountable.

Delhi was the first state to implement the Right to Information Act. There has been a sea-change in supply of electricity and water in Delhi during the last few years.

Heads of various Departments while responding to suggestions and difficulties submitted by the RWAs assured that their voice would get due importance.

The Forest and Environment Secretary informed that there would be no hassle in pruning of those trees which are becoming threat to life and property. Senior officers have been instructed about this.

Addl CP, Delhi Traffic Police, while taking up parking problem, stated that efforts will be done to construct underground parking and aesthetically developed parks over them.

He further stated that problem of congestion due to parking of school buses on roads would also be addressed.

Pr Secretary to CM clarified that maximum financial limit of developmental works under My Delhi I Care Fund would not virtually be allowed to become speed breaker.

He exhorted people to utilize the RTI Act with due care and alertness.

He further stated that video conferencing of the Chief Minister would be revived soon.

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