Delhi to Receive Additional 113.5 MGD Raw Water from Himachal via Haryana

New Delhi: Delhi is set to receive an additional 113.5 million gallons per day (MGD) of raw water from Himachal Pradesh, which could help bridge the city’s current shortfall of 250 MGD. The decision comes after long-standing delays in operationalizing water-sharing agreements with neighboring states.

Discussions at Yamuna Review Meeting
According to Delhi government sources, the matter was discussed at the recent Yamuna Review Committee meeting. Himachal Pradesh has agreed, as per previous agreements, to release 113.5 MGD of water for Delhi’s use. Officials noted that technical formalities are nearly complete, and water supply to the capital is expected soon.

Delhi’s Current Water Scenario
Delhi currently receives approximately 1,000 MGD of water against a demand of 1,250 MGD, leaving a deficit of around 250 MGD. This shortfall has forced increased reliance on groundwater, raising serious concerns over declining water tables and deteriorating water quality.

Route and Implementation Issues
For years, the water allocation remained unused due to unclear routes through Haryana’s canal system. Officials say that now, with approvals from multiple states and finalization of technical formalities, Delhi is expected to get its share promptly.

Areas to Benefit
Officials indicate that the additional water supply will improve pressure and availability in parts of South Delhi, Outer Delhi, Dwarka, Rohini, North-East, and East Delhi, reducing dependency on tankers and easing morning peak-hour shortages.

Leadership Participation
The Yamuna Review Committee meeting included Union Water Resources Minister CR Patil, Uttarakhand Irrigation Minister Satpal Maharaj, UP Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, and Delhi Water Minister Parvesh Verma. Representatives from Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand also participated.

Delhi’s Minister Highlights Key Priorities
Post-meeting, Delhi’s Water and Irrigation Minister Parvesh Verma tweeted that Delhi emphasized ensuring its rightful water share, improving inter-state coordination, and enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of Yamuna water management.

This move is expected to provide significant relief to the capital, particularly in areas facing chronic water shortages.