Kejriwal Vows to Address Sewer Problems in Delhi Post-Elections

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Commitment to sewer repairs if elected.
- Focus on unauthorized colonies.
- Past achievements in sewer line installations.
- Response to criticism from rival parties.
- Importance of clean water supply.
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) AAP National Convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal declared on Saturday that if his party secures victory in the upcoming February 5 Assembly elections, they will undertake a comprehensive initiative to repair old sewer systems and install new ones on a ‘war footing’.
In a video directed to the electorate, Kejriwal revealed that he frequently encounters complaints regarding sewer systems while engaging with city residents.
“Should you experience issues with overflowing sewers or deteriorating sewer lines, there's no need for concern. Once our administration is in place, we will prioritize replacing outdated sewer lines swiftly to alleviate your troubles,” stated Kejriwal.
The former Chief Minister also pointed out the developmental projects and sewer line installations executed by the AAP government in the 1,792 unauthorized colonies.
Kejriwal recalled that during the establishment of the AAP government in 2015, they inherited numerous challenges, including the significant problem of clogged sewers.
“There was a prohibition on executing any developmental work in the 1,792 unauthorized colonies in Delhi, due to restrictions imposed by the Supreme Court, yet we managed to overcome all obstacles to initiate development in these areas,” he remarked.
Previously, these colonies lacked sewer lines, resulting in waste flowing into open drains, which forced residents to endure unbearable living conditions.
The former Chief Minister asserted that over the past decade, the AAP administration has successfully installed sewer lines in all unauthorized colonies, although some still require additional work.
“Currently, we are in the process of connecting homes in many of these colonies to the newly laid sewer lines,” Kejriwal noted.
In regions with existing sewer infrastructure, issues such as waste mixing with tap water, sewer overflow, leaks, and blockages have become frequent due to the age and deterioration of the lines, some of which have even collapsed, added Kejriwal.
“Soon, we will replace sewer lines and ensure they are cleaned in your colony, resolving related issues,” he promised.
Kejriwal’s video message is particularly relevant as the rival BJP and Congress have criticized the AAP government regarding issues like sewer overflow and contaminated water.
BJP National President and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda mentioned at an election rally in Uttam Nagar on Thursday that in 2023-24, nearly 20,000 incidents of diarrhea and jaundice were reported due to tainted water supplies.
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8.