Delhi Minister Atishi has sharply criticised Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar over the persistent sewer overflow issues plaguing several parts of the city. In a strongly worded letter, Atishi highlighted the deteriorating situation, which has led to widespread public inconvenience and the contamination of drinking water in affected areas.
Atishi’s letter detailed complaints from numerous localities, including Patparganj village, Shashi Garden, Khichripur, and RK Puram, among others. She expressed concern that the ongoing sewer overflows could escalate into a severe public health crisis if not addressed promptly. “These complaints are very serious in nature and are worsening by the day. Sewer is overflowing everywhere, causing inconvenience to the people living in the area,” she wrote.
Despite holding multiple review meetings with the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and local representatives, Atishi noted that no tangible progress had been made. She blamed this on the lack of coordination between the Urban Development Department, the DJB, and the Finance Department, accusing them of engaging in a blame game instead of working towards a solution. “There is no on-ground coordination between different departments,” Atishi remarked.
Water Minister @AtishiAAP pulls up the Chief Secretary over sewer overflow issues across Delhi, directing him to oversee and resolve the issue, and take strict action against negligent officers responsible for the crisis. pic.twitter.com/pEpV1t9QkO
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) August 17, 2024
Atishi also criticised the Chief Secretary for his inaction, stating that she had repeatedly issued verbal and written instructions to resolve the issue, but no steps had been taken. “I am shocked to note that no action has been taken on your part. This is not acceptable,” she stated.
The letter concluded with a directive to the Chief Secretary to immediately oversee and resolve the sewer overflow issues across Delhi and to take strict action against the officials whose negligence has caused the crisis.