Audit and Community Engagement Could Enhance Delhi’s Water Conditions: Report

Key Takeaways

Independent audits of water quality are crucial.
Community involvement can increase accountability.
Investment in upgrading water infrastructure is essential.
Regular updates on major projects are necessary to rebuild trust.
Voters must demand actionable solutions from leaders.

New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) In order to tackle the issues surrounding Delhi’s contaminated water supply, it is imperative that the upcoming government conducts an independent audit of water quality and infrastructure projects to restore public confidence, stated a report titled “Citizen’s Guide – Decoding Delhi's Water Woes 2025” on Friday.

This report, created by experts focused on public welfare, underscored the challenges faced by residents of Delhi in obtaining clean tap water and suggested that community engagement could apply pressure on politicians for sustainable enhancements in water treatment and supply systems.

“The Delhi government should promote and reward community participation in monitoring water quality through local water quality committees or mobile applications, enabling citizens to report issues that can be promptly addressed,” the report noted.

This grassroots participation can compel politicians, regardless of their party affiliations, to respond to the needs of their constituents, as highlighted in the report.

“Voters must demand accountability from their elected officials regarding their commitments. As Delhi approaches another election season, it is essential for voters to ask pertinent questions and require actionable solutions from their leaders,” the report emphasized.

Regarding the challenge posed by an outdated water distribution network in the city, the report recommended that the Delhi government invest in upgrading and maintaining the city’s water infrastructure, particularly its treatment facilities, pipelines, and sewage systems.

“To restore public trust, regular updates on significant initiatives, such as the Yamuna cleaning project, should be made public,” the report advised.

According to the Delhi Economic Survey 2022-23, the total daily drinking water requirement for NCT-Delhi stands at approximately 1,260 million gallons per day (MGD). The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) manages to supply around 943 MGD, with nearly half of the water sourced from DJB treatment plants and pumping stations being lost due to leaks and theft.

Additionally, roughly 25% of the city's population lacks access to piped water due to insufficient provisions in unauthorized or unplanned colonies.