In light of the approaching monsoon season, the Delhi government has stepped up efforts to prevent waterlogging in the national capital. As part of the initiative, PWD Minister Parvesh Verma on Friday visited the waterlogging-prone Zakhira Underpass and its adjoining areas to inspect drainage improvement work and review on-ground readiness.
During the inspection, the Minister closely examined the construction of a major Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) drainage system being laid along New Rohtak Road, spanning from Rama Road to the Zakhira Flyover.
The newly designed drainage network will ensure that rainwater is directly discharged into the Najafgarh Drain, significantly reducing the possibility of water accumulation in the Zakhira Underpass and surrounding areas during heavy rainfall.
Speaking on the occasion, Verma said, “Following the recent spell of rain, all identified waterlogging points across Delhi were inspected by teams from the PWD and the Delhi Jal Board.”
Officials have been continuously monitoring the situation and carrying out necessary improvements. The objective is clear: residents must not face any inconvenience due to waterlogging during the monsoon, he added.
According to the minister, the government is working proactively rather than reactively, and the departments concerned have been directed to remain on alert.
“There is still time before the peak monsoon arrives. We are utilising every day to strengthen infrastructure, improve drainage systems and ensure smooth movement of traffic and citizens. Pump stations have been upgraded, monitoring systems are active, and officials are conducting regular inspections,” he stated.
The Zakhira underpass has long been a chronic waterlogging hotspot in the city. To address this, the measures now being implemented there and at other locations include substantially boosting pumping capacity and directly diverting rainwater to the Najafgarh Drain through the upgraded drainage network.
Arrangements are being made to prevent water retention at the underpass, and a round-the-clock power supply has been ensured for uninterrupted operation of the pumping stations.
The minister also shared that the MCD has been directed to ensure the timely removal of garbage and prevent the choking of drains, while the joint coordination mechanisms between PWD, Delhi Jal Board and MCD have been strengthened.
Verma has also directed officials to maintain strict supervision of all ongoing works and ensure completion within the stipulated timeline.
The Delhi government has undertaken a city-wide drive to identify, monitor and rectify vulnerable locations across Delhi, with preventive measures underway to ensure that residents experience minimal disruption.