Delhi minister Atishi writes to DJB over sewer overflow, warns of strict action
Dec 13, 2023
New Delhi [India], December 13 : Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Atishi wrote to the Delhi Jal Board on Wednesday over sewer overflow in different parts of the national capital and warned the DJB officials of strict action.
"My office has been constantly receiving complaints regarding sewer overflow in different parts of Delhi. I have personally visited several areas in Sultanpur Majra, Pocket A Mayur Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Chitla Gate, and Nehru Hill along with concerned local area officers. I am disappointed to say that the ground situation was not only dismal but inhuman," Atishi said in her letter to the DJB.
"During my visit, I found dirty water from the sewer overflowing onto the roads. In most cases, people living in the vicinity informed me that they have been facing these issues for several months now. In some cases, the residents informed me that the problem of sewer overflow has been so persistent that they have been forced to step on bricks to get out of their houses. The negligence of some DJB officers has created unhygienic conditions for people living in these areas. This is totally unacceptable," the letter further read.
The Delhi Minister added, "Besides responding to public complaints in a timely manner, the officers of DJB should also proactively visit the ground to take stock of the conditions of sewers. The CEO members, Chief Engineers, Additional Chief Engineers Superintendent Engineers, Additional Engineers and Junior Engineers should carry out the routine inspections of assembly constituencies so that these problems do not arise at all."
Atishi further warned the DJB officials of strict action in case of any non-compliance with the directions.
"CEO DJB to ensure strict compliance with the above directions. "The non-compliance of any officer will be viewed adversely," said the Delhi Minister in the letter.
Earlier this month, Atishi directed the Delhi Jal Board CEO to address all grievances received by residents of three areas, namely Wazirpur JJ Colony, Shakti Nagar Extension and Ashok Vihar Phase 3 area, regarding sewer overflow.
She directed all officials concerned to conduct daily ground visits, create checklists for sewer maintenance, and install machines in every block of Wazirpur JJ Colony, Shakti Nagar Extension, Ashok Vihar Phase 3, to immediately clean all sewer lines.
The national capital has been battling with sewer overflow issues for a long time now. Several of the colonies here are not connected with proper sewage treatment plants, which adds to the issue.
