In response to recent severe waterlogging incidents across the city, including critical underpasses, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has issued stringent instructions to mitigate future occurrences. The directives come in the wake of a tragic incident last Friday where a 60-year-old man drowned at the flooded Sarita Vihar underpass. The DDA has mandated its zones to ensure the operational readiness of water pumps at subways and underpasses, with personnel deployed around the clock.
A DDA official highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “On Friday, heavy waterlogging, reaching depths of up to 5 feet, occurred at the Sarita Vihar underpass, which is extensive and mostly uncovered. Immediately following the flooding, seven pumps were installed. We also initiated the desilting of all sump pits. We expect to complete the pump cleaning exercise by July 6, significantly reducing the likelihood of prolonged waterlogging.”According to a post by the Delhi Traffic Police on X, the underpass was reopened for traffic on Sunday night after the water levels receded. The DDA’s instructions emphasise maintaining a steady supply of fuel and electricity to the pumps. Additionally, repair and maintenance teams are directed to conduct regular inspections and promptly address any rain-induced road damage, particularly near underpasses.
“All engineering zones have been instructed to take all precautionary and preventive measures. They must be prepared with equipment and manpower to handle such situations. All officials on leave were recalled, and no breaks will be granted in the upcoming months,” the official added. Furthermore, the landscape and horticulture departments have been tasked with monitoring the Yamuna’s water levels and implementing measures to prevent waterlogging. Last year, flooding severely affected the river banks. To prevent the clogging of stormwater drain exits, the DDA has ordered the desilting and removal of floating debris from the surface.On Tuesday, Mayor Shelly Oberoi inspected the Kushak drain to assess its condition. During the inspection, officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) reported that encroachments in the area had resulted in the absence of approach roads, complicating desilting operations. “Encroachments along the banks significantly impede maintenance work, particularly desilting. The lack of proper approach roads prevents machinery from reaching all parts of the drain. Despite these obstacles, efforts have been made to desilt the drain wherever possible,” an official noted.The mayor stressed the importance of finding a permanent solution to ensure the proper upkeep and maintenance of the Kushak drain. This recent string of waterlogging incidents has underscored the critical need for a robust and proactive approach to urban infrastructure maintenance and disaster management in Delhi.
