📷 Image Credits: Indian Legal News
In a recent development, the Delhi government has approached the Supreme Court seeking directions to the State of Haryana for immediate release of water to the crisis-hit national capital.
Referring to the severe heatwave conditions prevailing in north India, particularly Delhi, the plea states that there is extraordinary and excessive surge of water demand in the capital. Delhi is facing an acute shortage, despite the government taking administrative measures to ensure optimization, rationing, and targeted supply. The urgent need for additional water supply has prompted Delhi, as a lower riparian Union Territory, to seek help through the instant plea due to the arid summer and lack of rainfall.
The petition explains that although Himachal Pradesh has agreed to share surplus water with Delhi, the physical boundary between the two regions requires routing water through Haryana channels to reach Delhi. Despite the request made to Haryana for cooperation, the State has not yet released the additional water. The plea highlights the reciprocal obligation of Haryana towards Delhi’s water crisis, given the significant migrant population residing in the national capital.
The plea emphasizes the impact of the water crisis on the workforce in Delhi, stressing the need for a swift resolution to avoid disruptions in responsibilities. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged neighboring states, including Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, to prioritize the supply of additional water to Delhi, setting aside political differences for the welfare of the residents.
Amidst the water scarcity, Delhi Water Minister Atishi Marlena has implemented strict measures, including fines for water wastage and deploying teams to ensure compliance with regulations. The water crisis has exacerbated with residents facing challenges in accessing clean drinking water, leading to desperate measures to secure water supply. The situation calls for immediate intervention to alleviate the hardships faced by the residents and ensure sustainable water resources for the city.
