Delhi Faces Ongoing Water Crisis as Supply Shortages Continue

The water crisis in India's capital, Delhi, persists as the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has announced that residents may face shortages until early February 2024. With only three out of nine major water treatment plants currently operating at full capacity, the situation has left many areas struggling to secure an adequate water supply.

The DJB has indicated that issues related to repairs and maintenance, coupled with elevated ammonia levels in the water supply, have significantly disrupted operations. As a result, localities such as Rohini, Dwarka, Inderlok, Pitampura, and Rajouri Garden are experiencing heightened difficulties in accessing potable water.

According to DJB officials, the repair work on affected canal systems will take time, which means that the supply is unlikely to return to normal before 4 February 2024. This ongoing crisis highlights the vulnerabilities in Delhi’s water infrastructure, which is crucial for a city of over 20 million residents.

Delhi has a long history of water supply issues, exacerbated by the rapid urbanisation and the demands of a growing population. Experts suggest that a combination of climate change, mismanagement of water resources, and outdated infrastructure contribute to the recurrent crises.

Locals in affected areas have voiced their frustrations, with many relying on tankers and bottled water to meet their daily needs.

"The situation is dire, and it seems like there is no end in sight. We cannot go on like this for long," stated local resident Priya Iyer in remarks reported by The Times of India.

As the situation unfolds, the DJB is being urged to expedite repairs and implement more sustainable water management practices to prevent similar crises in the future.