Rs 57,000 Crore Drainage Master Plan Unveiled For Delhi: Union Minister

Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar revealed Delhi's drainage master plan on Friday.

The plan, estimated to cost approximately Rs 57,000 crore, is designed to address Delhi's drainage needs for the next three decades. (File)

New Delhi:

On Friday, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar officially presented Delhi's comprehensive drainage master plan.

This strategic plan has been crafted to accommodate the capital's drainage requirements over a 30-year period, tackling both existing issues and anticipated challenges arising from urban expansion and persistent waterlogging incidents.

"The central government will provide assistance to the state government in implementing the drainage master plan," Union Minister Khattar stated.

The initiative segments Delhi into three major drainage basins - Najafgarh, Barapullah, and Trans-Yamuna - with consultants hired to redevelop the entire drainage network at an estimated cost of Rs 57,000 crore.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that the Union government would contribute to financing the ambitious project.

"Our governance began with inspections of drainage channels and chronic waterlogging sites. We operate with excellent teamwork and don't manage from air-conditioned offices," Gupta remarked.

The chief minister criticized previous administrations for failing to address the city's sewage and drainage challenges. "They were merely interested in offering temporary solutions," she claimed.

The AAP provided no immediate response to these comments.

"Since forming our government, we have demonstrated our commitment to resolving waterlogging problems in the city. The Minto Bridge underpass is a prime example - we have successfully addressed the issue there," said BJP leader Parvesh Verma.

He described the drainage master plan as a "guarantee card" against future waterlogging in the capital.

"Until now, Delhi experienced unplanned development, which resulted in severe infrastructure problems," he noted.

"Moving forward, all drainage work in Delhi will align with this master plan," Verma added.

Criticizing former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Verma alleged, "The previous administration conducted no proper studies. They were preoccupied with constructing a Sheeshmahal and focused on their personal interests."