DDA intensifies drain desilting

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has completed nearly 70 per cent of its large-scale desilting work on stormwater drains across the Capital ahead of the monsoon season, with Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu directing officials to finish the remaining work by June 15.

According to the DDA, desilting operations are being carried out in mission mode in Narela and Dwarka to improve rainwater drainage, reduce waterlogging, and prevent traffic disruption during heavy rainfall. Officials said the exercise was launched in advance on the directions of Lieutenant Governor Sandhu, who has been closely monitoring preparedness measures related to monsoon management in Delhi.

The authority is currently cleaning around 69 kilometres of stormwater drains in Narela and 192 kilometres of drains in Dwarka. The work includes the removal of accumulated silt, garbage, weeds, debris, and other blockages that obstruct the natural flow of rainwater during the rainy season.

Officials said the drive aims to strengthen drainage efficiency across major residential and public areas under DDA jurisdiction. The work is also expected to help reduce flooding on roads, ease traffic congestion, and improve sanitation conditions during the monsoon months.

The Lieutenant Governor reviewed the progress of the desilting campaign and instructed officials to ensure that all pending work is completed before the onset of heavy rainfall. He stressed that monsoon preparedness should remain a priority and directed agencies to maintain strict monitoring of field operations.

According to officials, the desilting campaign is being monitored regularly through inspections by senior DDA officers. Authorities said teams have been deployed to supervise quality standards and ensure that drainage channels remain functional before the monsoon intensifies.

The DDA stated that the operation forms part of a broader effort to improve urban infrastructure and strengthen flood prevention systems in vulnerable areas of the capital. Officials said stormwater drains often get clogged because of silt deposits, vegetation growth, and dumping of waste material, leading to water accumulation on roads during rain.

The authority said early execution of the desilting programme was intended to avoid emergencies later in the season. Officials added that uninterrupted drainage flow is essential not only for flood prevention but also for maintaining road connectivity and public safety during periods of heavy rain.

The Lieutenant Governor had earlier instructed the DDA to undertake a comprehensive desilting exercise in mission mode so that residents do not face severe waterlogging problems during the monsoon. Officials said coordination with other civic agencies is also being maintained to improve drainage management across Delhi.

The DDA noted that waterlogging has remained a recurring challenge in several parts of the city during previous monsoon seasons, affecting traffic movement and daily life. The present drive is aimed at minimising such disruptions through preventive action and timely maintenance of drainage infrastructure.

Officials said special attention is being given to areas prone to flooding and traffic bottlenecks. The authority believes the large-scale cleaning operation will significantly improve the carrying capacity of drains and ensure faster discharge of rainwater.

The DDA said it remains committed to ensuring safe and efficient public infrastructure across Delhi. Authorities added that all necessary preparations are being made to provide residents with cleaner surroundings, better drainage systems, and smoother mobility during the upcoming monsoon season.