New Delhi’s water supply encountered a setback as the Chandrawal water treatment plant experienced pump failures due to rainwater backflow, impacting several north Delhi areas. According to a notice issued by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), heavy rain on June 26 led to flooding in the clear water pump house, causing a major fault and complete cessation of pumping operations. As a result, evening water supply from Chandrawal WW-II was disrupted, with continued effects expected on June 29.
DJB reported a total production of 928 million gallons per day (MGD) from all treatment plants and tubewells, highlighting underproduction at facilities including Wazirabad, Chandrawal, Okhla, and Bawana. These plants collectively provide approximately 25% of Delhi’s drinking water supply. In response to recurrent operational challenges, DJB officials noted the approval of a proposal for implementing smart pumps at water treatment plants to enhance flood resilience. This initiative follows past incidents, including a shutdown in July 2023 due to flooding, prompting the Delhi government to prioritize safety measures and contingency plans. The recent malfunction underscores the critical need for infrastructure upgrades and proactive maintenance strategies to mitigate disruptions in essential services. As DJB works towards restoring normalcy in water supply operations, stakeholders are urged to expedite the implementation of flood-proofing measures to safeguard against future contingencies and ensure uninterrupted service delivery to residents across the capital.
