Pre-Monsoon Drain Cleaning Target Set, CM Rekha Gupta Calls for Inter-Departmental Coordination

Use of Modern Machinery to Prevent Waterlogging in Delhi, CM Directs Departments

“Replicate Minto Road Model Across Delhi,” Says CM Rekha Gupta

CM Rekha Gupta to Tour Delhi with Officials During Monsoon Rains

New Delhi, April 2026 : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta on Thursday chaired a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat to chart out a more effective response to the city’s chronic waterlogging problem. She directed all departments to complete desilting of drains on time and ensure special arrangements at known flooding hotspots. Emphasising coordination, the Chief Minister said that only a joint, well-synchronised effort would help the city manage waterlogging during the monsoon. She also underlined the need to move towards systems that minimise dependence on pumps for water removal.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Shri Rajeev Verma along with senior officials from the PWD, MCD, DMRC, NDMC, DDA and the Delhi Cantonment Board. Departments presented their action plans, detailing ongoing and proposed work related to desilting, drain construction, repairs and cleaning.

June 30 deadline for desilting, no room for delays

Reviewing progress, the Chief Minister made it clear that any laxity would not be tolerated. All departments have been asked to complete desilting before June 30 and ensure that the removed silt is transported to designated sites. The aim is to allow rainwater to flow freely through drains and prevent it from spilling onto roads. She also flagged the recurring issue of garbage clogging drain inlets in markets, streets and residential areas, which often leads to water accumulation at intersections and key stretches.

Minto Road cited as a success model

Gupta pointed to Minto Road as a positive example, noting that the area did not witness waterlogging last monsoon despite a long history of flooding. She credited continuous monitoring and timely intervention for the improvement, adding that sustained efforts by officials helped remove a long-standing blot.

No blame-shifting, only accountability

The Chief Minister stressed that lack of coordination among departments has often worsened the situation, with agencies passing the buck. “This cannot continue,” she said, warning that any complaints of negligence or blame-shifting would invite strict action. Departments have been told to work in close coordination and take collective responsibility.

Push for modern technology and equipment

Gupta directed officials to procure modern machinery wherever required to deal with waterlogging more efficiently. The MCD and NDMC shared details of equipment already in use, and the Chief Minister urged other departments to follow suit. She also asked officials to identify vulnerable points in advance and ensure systems are in place to quickly drain out water during heavy rainfall.

Field presence mandatory, CM to conduct inspections

Officials have been instructed to stay in constant touch with engineers and ground staff during the monsoon, as they are the first responders to waterlogging incidents. The Chief Minister said she will personally conduct field visits with senior officials to assess the situation on the ground.

Towards a long-term, sustainable solution

Reiterating her focus on long-term planning, Gupta said Delhi must build a system that does not rely heavily on pumps, which often fail or face technical issues during rains. While pumps may still be needed in some areas, they cannot be the primary solution.

She called for expedited work on the drainage master plan and stressed that a scientific, structured approach is essential for a lasting solution. The government’s goal, she said, is to move beyond temporary fixes and put in place durable infrastructure that can spare Delhi residents the annual ordeal of monsoon waterlogging.