Delhi Government’s Sewer Connection Initiative
The Delhi government received boost for its sewer connection initiative. The Centre approved Rs 800 crore in financial assistance under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme 2.0. This funding is very important for providing sewer connections in slums and unauthorised colonies. The approval came during a meeting between the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) officials and the apex committee responsible for implementing the AMRUT scheme.
About AMRUT 2.0
- Launched on: 1st October 2021.
- Duration: 5 years – from 2021-22 to 2025-26
Main Objectives:
- Water Supply: Ensure 100% water supply coverage in about 4,900 towns (expanded from 500 cities in AMRUT 1.0).
- Sewerage/Septage Management: Cover 500 cities that were part of AMRUT 1.0 with modern sewage treatment and septage systems.
- Circular Water Economy:
- Promote reuse of treated water, conserve water, and revive water bodies.
- Cities must prepare a City Water Balance Plan (CWBP) for better water management.
- Reforms & Improvements: Improve citizen ease of living by reducing non-revenue water (water that is lost or unbilled) and improving urban planning and city finances.
Key Components of AMRUT 2.0:
- Pey Jal Survekshan:
- A survey to:
- Ensure fair water distribution.
- Promote wastewater reuse.
- Map water bodies.
- Encourage competition among cities.
- A survey to:
- Technology Sub-Mission for Water: Use the latest global water technologies in Indian cities.
- IEC Campaign (Information, Education & Communication): Create public awareness about water conservation and responsible usage.
Financial Overview
The Delhi government plans to install approximately 13,000 new sewer connections in slum areas. Additionally, it aims to provide 2.5 lakh sewer connections in unauthorised colonies. The total financial assistance from the Centre is Rs 804.58 crore, while the remaining funds will be sourced from the Union Territory’s budget. The overall project cost is estimated at Rs 3,104.57 crore.
Yamuna Cleaning Project
The project includes a comprehensive plan for cleaning the Yamuna River. The aim is to reduce untreated water flowing into the river. The Delhi government has committed to recycling and reusing 50 million litres of water daily. This effort will also enhance the sewage treatment capacity in the city.
Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)
Currently, Delhi has 37 STPs, with 18 undergoing upgrades to improve treatment capacity. The DJB has initiated the Interceptor Sewer Project to manage wastewater effectively. This project will divert wastewater from drains to the nearest STP. However, challenges remain, particularly with drains like Najafgarh, where trapping is not feasible.
Community Impact
The initiative aims to benefit around 35 lakh residents across 416 unauthorised colonies and 115 villages. This will improve sanitation and public health in these areas. The Delhi government has prioritised the water and sewerage sector, allocating Rs 9,000 crore in the 2025-26 Budget. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also announced Rs 500 crore for STP repairs.
Future Strategies
The Delhi government is focusing on a holistic approach to sewage management. This includes audits of existing STP capacities and strategies for sludge processing and reuse. The emphasis is on sustainable practices that align with urban transformation goals.
| Related | |
|---|---|
