Delhi's New Drainage Master Plan to Be Unveiled by Union Minister Khattar on Friday

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar will unveil a new drainage master plan for Delhi, designed to tackle urbanisation challenges and waterlogging issues over the next 30 years.

The Delhi government's new drainage master plan, aimed at tackling the city's urbanisation challenges, will be launched by Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on Friday. This plan is designed to address the capital's drainage needs for the next 30 years, focusing on current issues and future demands due to rapid urban growth and frequent waterlogging.

Originally developed in 1976 when Delhi's population was 60 lakh, the previous drainage plan is now outdated. Rapid urbanisation has increased the built-up area, affecting the runoff coefficient and causing overflow in the existing system. The new plan aims to resolve these issues effectively.

Drainage Network and Implementation

Delhi's drainage network spans approximately 3740.31 kilometres, managed by eight different civic agencies and departments. To implement the new master plan citywide, an interdepartmental committee will be formed, comprising officers from all relevant departments, according to officials.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has divided the city into three basins: Najafgarh Basin, Barapullah Basin, and Trans-Yamuna Basin. Consultants have been hired to redesign the drainage network within these areas to enhance efficiency and capacity.

Enhancing Drainage Capacity

The current drainage system can manage up to 50 mm of rainfall per day. The new plan aims to double this capacity, ensuring better handling of heavy rains. Officials noted that advanced tools were used by consultants to prepare the project report for this master plan.

The strategy involves integrating existing drains with water bodies, wetlands, and green parks. This approach seeks to utilise current infrastructure while improving residents' quality of life. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma will also attend the unveiling event.

The master plan will be introduced as part of the government's Sewa Pakhwada initiatives. This comprehensive approach is expected to significantly improve Delhi's drainage system, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term urbanisation impacts.

With inputs from PTI