In a swift response to a recent public health tragedy, Delhi's Water Minister, Parvesh Sahib Singh, has issued urgent directives to the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to prevent any possibility of contaminated water causing deaths in the national capital. This move comes after contaminated water claimed at least 16 lives in Indore earlier this month.
Directives for Immediate Action
The Delhi government has instructed the water utility to implement a series of stringent measures with immediate effect. The primary focus is on intensifying regular inspections of all water supply pipelines. Special attention must be paid to areas where drinking water lines run close to sewer lines to quickly detect and repair any leaks, damages, or potential cross-contamination points.
Furthermore, the DJB has been told to deploy dedicated teams for round-the-clock vigilance and maintenance, particularly in high-density and vulnerable zones across Delhi. The aim is to establish a proactive system that identifies risks before they turn into disasters.
Learning from the Indore Tragedy
The trigger for this urgent review was the devastating incident in Indore's Bhagirathpura area. There, at least 16 people died after consuming contaminated water, with many more hospitalized. This event served as a stark warning for other major cities about the critical state of water infrastructure and the ever-present danger of contamination.
Ensuring Public Grievance Redressal
Beyond infrastructure checks, the Delhi government's directives also emphasize citizen-centric responsiveness. The DJB has been ordered to ensure prompt action on public complaints regarding water quality, including issues related to odour, taste, or discoloration. The orders mandate on-ground verification and corrective measures within the shortest possible time frame.
Officials stated that these comprehensive steps are being taken to safeguard Delhi's residents and ensure that a tragedy mirroring the Indore incident does not occur in the capital. The government's instructions underscore a shift towards preventive maintenance and rapid response in urban water management.
