Delhi is facing a significant water crisis due to a reduction in water release from Haryana via the Munak Canal. Delhi Minister Atishi has taken steps to address this emergency by seeking an urgent meeting with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who is the central government's representative in Delhi.Â
Here are the key points regarding the situation and Atishi's response:
### Water Supply Issues
- **Expected vs. Actual Water Release:** Delhi is supposed to receive 1,050 cusecs of water daily from the Munak Canal through the CLC and DSB sub-canals. However, the supply has dwindled to 840 cusecs.
- **Impact on Water Treatment Plants:** Seven water treatment plants in Delhi rely on the water from this canal. The reduced supply threatens to worsen the water situation across the city within 1-2 days.
- **Evaporation Losses:** During summer, there is a typical loss of about 59-60 cusecs due to evaporation. With only 840 cusecs reaching Delhi, it indicates Haryana's insufficient release of water.
### Atishi's Actions
- **Emergency Meeting Request:** Atishi has requested an emergency meeting with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena to discuss and resolve the crisis.
- **Direct Appeal to the Central Government:** By addressing the Lieutenant Governor, Atishi seeks to involve the central government in resolving the issue promptly.
- **Site Visits:** Atishi visited the sub-canals of the Munak canal in Bawana to assess the situation on the ground.
### Background and Broader Context
- **Supreme Court Involvement:** The Supreme Court has acknowledged the severity of Delhi's water crisis, describing it as an "existential problem" and directing Himachal Pradesh to release surplus water to Delhi and Haryana to facilitate its flow.
- **Current Water Shortages:** Some areas in Delhi, such as Chanakyapuri, are already experiencing acute water shortages, leading residents to take extreme measures like climbing on water tankers to get their share.
- **Haryana's Responsibility:** According to an agreement, Haryana is obligated to release 1,050 cusecs of water daily for Delhi through the Munak canal. The current shortfall implies non-compliance with this agreement.
### Potential Consequences
- **Worsening Crisis:** If the water release from Haryana does not increase, the water shortage could affect the entire city within days.
- **Political and Social Implications:** The water crisis has significant political and social ramifications, as water scarcity can lead to public unrest and exacerbate tensions between state governments.
### Urgency of the Situation
- **Immediate Resolution Needed:** The immediate intervention by the central government, facilitated by the Lieutenant Governor, is crucial to mitigate the crisis and ensure an adequate water supply for Delhi's residents.
In summary, Delhi's water crisis necessitates swift action and cooperation between state and central governments to prevent a full-blown emergency. Atishi's proactive steps in seeking an emergency meeting highlight the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for resolution.
