Delhi CM Introduces Advanced Amphibious Excavators for Drain Cleaning
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 13 (NationPress) - On Friday, Delhi's Chief Minister Rekha Gupta unveiled advanced amphibious excavators (both long boom and short boom models) at the Badusarai Bridge, Najafgarh Drain, and Pankha Road Drain, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the city's drainage cleaning efforts.
These innovative machines are set to drastically accelerate desilting activities, facilitate garbage removal, and eliminate water hyacinth from the drains, as per an official statement. This initiative is anticipated to bolster the drainage capacity and mitigate waterlogging issues during the monsoon.
The Chief Minister emphasized the Delhi government's commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology for effective drain cleaning and for revitalizing the Yamuna River.
The launch event was graced by Delhi Cabinet Ministers Parvesh Sahib Singh and Ashish Sood, alongside senior officials from related departments.
CM Gupta highlighted that the Najafgarh Drain is the largest in Delhi, responsible for transporting approximately 75% of the silt from the city's drainage system.
She remarked that the task of removing the significant silt build-up had previously been deemed extremely challenging.
However, with these modern floating machines now in use, the task has become manageable. These machines can directly access the center of the drain to extract silt, thus speeding up the removal of long-standing sludge.
Estimates suggest that over 10 million metric tonnes of silt have accumulated in the Najafgarh Drain.
The newly introduced amphibious machines will tackle this substantial accumulation. The Delhi government is also planning to acquire additional amphibious equipment.
Previously, one machine had been procured, and on Friday, four more were inaugurated. The remaining units will be delivered to the department shortly.
In addition, the Chief Minister stated that the Delhi government is now conducting desilting operations year-round, rather than confining them to the pre-monsoon period. This proactive approach aims to more effectively combat waterlogging during the rainy season.