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Synopsis

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday expressed strong dissatisfaction with the "absolutely pathetic" state of the drainage system in the national capital, calling on authorities to address the pressing issue of waterlogging urgently.

The court emphasized the dire condition of the drainage system, noting instances of collapse and severe waterlogging in new construction areas.

A division bench of Acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora conveyed their frustration during the hearing of two suo motu petitions on the waterlogging problem in Delhi and the issues related to rainwater harvesting and traffic congestion during monsoons and other periods.

Referring to an underpass near Bharat Mandapam, the court questioned the effectiveness of the drainage system and criticized the authorities for the collapse of the infrastructure.

Justice Manmohan remarked, "The drainage system is in a very bad state of affairs. It had totally collapsed. Do we have a drainage system in Delhi or we don't have it? It is absolutely pathetic. Look at the new areas which have been set up. The new construction gets flooded today."

Highlighting instances of waterlogging in Delhi, the court illustrated the severity of the problem, including snakes entering residences and fishes found in drawing rooms during monsoons.

The bench expressed dismay at the broken sewage lines at various locations, including ITO, near the Delhi Zoo, and the high court.

The court urged authorities to treat the situation as a wake-up call and commence immediate action, cautioning against waiting until April or the monsoon season.

The judges emphasized the agencies' apparent lack of accountability, stating, "To put it mildly, things are very very bad, and you agencies cannot be tamed by anyone."

Criticizing the absence of a comprehensive, verified plan for the drainage system, the court pointed out the recurring issue of Minto Bridge in Central Delhi being submerged in water each monsoon.

The bench demanded clarity on instructions for drain maintenance, expressing frustration with the practice of sweepers dumping garbage into drains.

The court directed the authorities to seek instructions on the matter and scheduled the next hearing for January 16. It also asked the counsels representing the agencies to engage in a "brainstorming session" with the authorities to devise practical solutions.

The respondents involved in the petitions include the Centre, Delhi government, Delhi Development Authority, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Police, Public Works Department, Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Cantonment Board, New Delhi Municipal Council, and the Flood Irrigation Department.

Case Title: Court on its own motion v. Union of India and Ors.