New Delhi Engages Consultant To Combat Massive Water Leakage Crisis
In New Delhi, with over half of its water supply currently unaccounted for, the city administration has engaged a consultant to comprehensively address the problem and significantly reduce the alarming water loss rate.Officials report a staggering 58% water wastage in transmission, substantially higher than the national average of around 20%. The appointed consultant is tasked not only with identifying the root causes behind this extensive leakage but also with proposing robust measures to strengthen the entire water distribution network and enhance critical infrastructure, aiming to increase domestic water connections and ensure potable water supply to every household.
According to data from the local water utility, Delhi’s extensive 15,600-kilometer water supply network, which serves 21.5 million consumers, suffers considerable losses because 2,800 kilometers of it are over three decades old.Despite covering approximately 93.5% of the city, the number of connections stands at only 2.9 million.The consultant will analyze three prior reports from 2003, 2011, and 2021 to formulate a cohesive strategy for network reinforcement, develop consolidated schemes for increasing water connections, and improve the billing system. A pilot project to strengthen the distribution network has already commenced in Northeast Delhi.
The city administration has also sought assistance from the central government to further reduce non-revenue water percentages and systematically increase connections, alongside evaluating groundwater as an additional source to augment potable water supply. Discussions have been held with central ministries for this purpose. Furthermore, a project management unit will be engaged to monitor large-scale water and sewage treatment capacity augmentation projects, with a request for proposals expected soon. The water utility is also actively recruiting engineers and officers, including retired personnel on a contractual basis, to bolster its workforce.
This comprehensive strategy underscores the city’s commitment to sustainable water management and equitable supply for its growing population. By tackling leaks, upgrading infrastructure, and strengthening human resources, the administration aims to build a more resilient water network, ensuring every household receives consistent, potable water and fostering long-term urban sustainability.
