In response to a critical water shortage, Delhi's Water Minister, Atishi, has announced stringent measures to curb water wastage. On Wednesday, Atishi instructed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to deploy 200 teams across the city to monitor and penalize water wastage activities, including washing cars with hoses, overflowing water tanks, and using domestic water supplies for construction or commercial purposes.

Fines and Disconnections

Starting May 30, these teams will impose a fine of Rs 2,000 on individuals found wasting water. Additionally, any illegal water connections at construction sites or commercial establishments will be disconnected.

Water Rationing in South Delhi

To manage the water scarcity, several South Delhi areas—such as Greater Kailash, Lajpat Nagar, Panchsheel Park, Hauz Khas, and Chittaranjan Park—will now receive water only once a day, instead of the usual twice. This water rationing plan, announced by Atishi on Tuesday, will remain in effect until the situation improves.

Public Appeal

Atishi appealed to the residents of Delhi to think beyond personal inconvenience and consider the broader community. "I know that where water is being supplied twice a day, people will be troubled if it is cut off for once a day, but I appeal to all Delhiites that we should not think only about ourselves. We should think about everyone," she said.

Widespread Water Challenges

Areas in North and South West Delhi, including Mehrauli and Chattarpur, are also facing severe water shortages. The ongoing heatwave in northwest India, with temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius in some parts of Delhi, has worsened the crisis. Atishi attributed the shortage to Haryana's halt in releasing water from the Yamuna River to Delhi since early May.

Current Water Production

According to the DJB's summer bulletin, Delhi produced 978 million gallons per day (MGD) on Tuesday, slightly up from Monday's 969.32 MGD. However, the Wazirabad facility, which should produce 131 MGD, only contributed 110 MGD, reflecting ongoing issues.

Call for Collective Responsibility

Minister Atishi urged residents to avoid water wastage, such as washing vehicles with open hoses. She warned that the government might impose fines if voluntary conservation measures fail.

Delhi-Haryana Water Dispute

Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva criticized the AAP government, blaming Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Minister Atishi for the crisis. In response, Atishi accused Haryana of withholding Delhi's water share since May 1. She revealed data showing a steady drop in water levels at Wazirabad, from 674.5 feet on May 1 to 669.8 feet by the announcement day.

Government Actions

To mitigate the shortage, the Delhi government has increased the operating hours of borewells from six to fourteen hours and boosted the number of water tankers. Continuous discussions are ongoing with Haryana to resolve the issue, with the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court if no progress is made. "Haryana has stopped the release of Delhi's share of water. The water level at Wazirabad was 674.5 feet on May 1. This is the average level that should be maintained. Last year in April, May, and June, the minimum level was maintained at 674.5 feet," Atishi stated.

The situation remains dire, and the Delhi government is urging residents to use water judiciously to navigate through this challenging period.