Key areas in South Delhi to face water shortage until Nov 1. Residents prepare for Diwali without water, as ammonia levels rise in the Yamuna.
As Delhi residents prepare for Diwali, households in several South Delhi neighborhoods, including the posh Vasant Kunj area, are bracing for days without water. Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has issued notices that water supply will be restricted until November 1 due to high ammonia levels in the Yamuna River, impacting major treatment plants.
The Delhi Jal Board stated that increased ammonia levels in the Yamuna are disrupting water treatment at the Sonia Vihar and Bhagirathi plants. This situation primarily affects South Delhi neighborhoods, leading to a scarcity that could last until early November. The festival season, traditionally marked by gatherings and celebrations, is thus anticipated to be challenging for affected residents, who are now relying heavily on water tankers.
Residents of Vasant Kunj and nearby areas have expressed frustration, stating that similar shortages occur every year around this time due to pollution in the Yamuna. Many residents accuse authorities of lacking a proactive response, as the seasonal ammonia spike in October and November is a recurring issue.
A Vasant Kunj resident shared, "We go through this every year. Despite knowing about this seasonal spike, authorities fail to prepare, and we’re left struggling for water during Diwali."
While the DJB has arranged emergency water tankers, residents report irregular service, accusing the agency of operating on a "pick-and-choose" basis. In certain cases, households are compelled to spend significant amounts on private tankers to meet basic water needs.
Another local resident voiced their concerns: "Even during Diwali, we are left without basic necessities. We are praying we don't have guests this year as we can't offer even basic amenities without water."
The following areas are anticipated to experience low or no water supply until November 1:
Residents across these areas are advised to conserve water and rely on alternate sources until water treatment facilities can resume regular operations.
Frustrated by recurring water shortages, residents are calling for long-term solutions, including ammonia treatment facilities and better pollution control in the Yamuna River. Environmental experts have echoed the need for sustainable pollution management, citing the impact of untreated industrial waste that contributes to elevated ammonia levels in the Yamuna.
Delhi’s water woes, exacerbated during this festive season, underscore an urgent need for government attention on sustainable solutions to ensure uninterrupted water supply for all residents.
Community leaders are calling for a more structured solution from DJB and the government to address the yearly surge in ammonia levels, which disrupts water treatment. DJB's recent statement on the crisis suggested they are seeking measures to control ammonia levels upstream, though tangible changes have yet to be seen.
For now, residents continue to rely on water tanker deliveries, but many emphasize the need for long-term measures to prevent future shortages.
As Diwali approaches, the water shortage in South Delhi highlights critical issues with water management and crisis preparedness in the capital. With restricted water supply lasting until November 1, residents are left hoping for urgent action from local authorities to restore normalcy and ensure future resilience against similar shortages.
Stay informed with the latest updates on Delhi’s water situation and government action.
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