In a proactive measure to combat illegal water extraction along the Munak Canal stretch from Bawana JJ Colony to Gopal Cow Shelter, Delhi Police have intensified their vigilance with a multi-pronged approach involving foot patrols, motorbikes, and SUV deployments. The Munak Canal, typically a hub of recreational activity during summer afternoons, has drawn attention due to concerns over unauthorized water extraction by the so-called ‘tanker mafia’. Recent reports indicated surreptitious water pumping activities, prompting a heightened police presence aimed at curbing such illicit practices.
Under the directive of lieutenant governor VK Saxena, Delhi Police have bolstered their surveillance efforts, significantly increasing personnel deployment for round-the-clock monitoring along the canal. This strategic move aims not only to deter illegal water lifting but also to address broader concerns surrounding water supply politics between Delhi and Haryana.
“The objective is clear: to prevent illegal water extraction by unauthorized entities,” remarked a senior police official overseeing the operation. “Our intensified presence has already yielded results, with no sightings of tankers along the canal during recent patrols.” Despite local testimonies citing recent instances of tanker activity, authorities remain steadfast in their efforts, emphasizing the need for stringent enforcement to safeguard essential water resources. Residents, while acknowledging past incidents, underscored the persistent challenge posed by unauthorized water extraction points and makeshift routes utilized by tanker operators.
At strategic checkpoints near Bawana JJ Colony and the cow shelter, police units remain vigilant, maintaining a visible presence to deter any potential resurgence of illegal activities. “The modus operandi of the tanker mafia often involves drawing water from underground borewells, leading to contamination concerns,” noted another police official stationed at the canal.
The initiative underscores a proactive approach by law enforcement agencies to address environmental and infrastructural challenges associated with water management in urban settings. By leveraging targeted patrols and community engagement, Delhi Police aim to reinforce regulatory compliance and mitigate risks associated with unauthorized water extraction practices. The crackdown along the Munak Canal exemplifies a concerted effort to uphold regulatory standards and protect vital water resources essential for both residential needs and broader socio-economic stability in the region.
