Delhi seeks water solution from lakes after devastating floods.

Delhi’s Lakes Being Restored to Secure Water Supply

Timarpur Lake in northern Delhi is undergoing a restoration project as part of the city’s plan to secure its water supply and reduce its dependence on neighboring states. The Delhi government’s ‘City of Lakes’ project aims to develop around 600 water bodies that will act as natural reservoirs to store excess rainfall and recycled water. Delhi has suffered from a water deficit of 1135 million litres a day, leaving the city with polluted air and deadly roads.

Challenges in Restoring the Lakes

Restoring the lakes is a complex task that requires significant investment and the establishment of adjacent water treatment facilities. However, budgetary constraints, the pandemic, and bureaucratic challenges have delayed the project’s progress. So far, fewer than 50 lakes have been restored. Educating investors and planners about the benefits and cost-effectiveness of such infrastructure remains a key challenge.

Delhi’s Water Problem

Delhi faces both water scarcity and excess water issues. During the recent monsoon season, the city experienced severe flooding, resulting in the shutdown of three water treatment facilities. On a national level, India is also in need of more clean water to meet the demands of its growing population. India extracts almost a quarter of the world’s groundwater, despite having only 4% of the earth’s freshwater resources.

The City of Lakes Project

The ‘City of Lakes’ project aims to connect every lake with a water source to ensure a perennial supply of water. Additionally, Delhi produces nearly 1900 million litres of recycled water daily, which will be pumped into the lakes and undergo further treatment before being supplied to households. The project also intends to provide a buffer against floods, although some experts are skeptical about its effectiveness.

Benefits and Limitations

Restoring the lakes is expected to improve the quality of life for Delhi residents and attract birds and plants that benefit lake ecosystems. However, encroachment and urbanization have shrunk many lakes or turned them into dumping grounds. While the project faces challenges, it represents a step towards securing Delhi’s water supply and creating a more sustainable city.

At Timarpur Lake, a sewage treatment plant is being constructed to supply recycled water to the lake. The site is scheduled to open to the public later this year.

Summary:

• Delhi is restoring lakes to secure its water supply and reduce reliance on neighboring states.
• The ‘City of Lakes’ project aims to develop around 600 water bodies as natural reservoirs.
• Restoring the lakes faces challenges such as budget constraints and bureaucratic hurdles.
• Delhi suffers from both water scarcity and excess water issues, highlighted during recent flooding.
• The project aims to connect lakes with water sources and utilize recycled water.
• The restoration will improve residents’ quality of life and attract beneficial wildlife.