In Delhi, there is a significant uproar caused by a shortage of water. The residents are desperate for every drop. Himachal had previously agreed to supply water to Delhi following the Supreme Court's directive, but Haryana is still awaiting communication from Himachal. Himachal has not yet clarified the situation on the ground. Despite officials contacting them throughout Sunday at Hathini Kund Barrage, no progress was made by late evening.
Himachal did not provide any information on Sunday from Jatoun Barrage (Renukaji) to Hathini Kund Barrage as ordered by the Supreme Court to supply sufficient water to Delhi. Hathini Kund Barrage remains the sole conduit for transporting river water from Himachal to Delhi. Himachal had agreed to provide 137 cusecs of water to Delhi from Renuka Jatoun Barrage via Hathini Kund Barrage.
The Irrigation Department of Yamuna nagar has also engaged with Himachal to establish a framework for water supply to Delhi. The challenge lies in how Himachal will deliver water to Delhi, considering that the construction of the Renuka dam, intended for this purpose, has yet to commence. However, with the Supreme Court's directive, there is optimism for the prompt construction of the dam as project formalities near completion.
Haryana plays a crucial role in releasing adequate water; failure to do so could result in a water crisis in Delhi. Delhi's Water Minister Atishi has criticized Haryana's insufficient water supply and lack of cooperation. She has demanded immediate action from Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini to address the water shortage issue affecting Delhi's seven water treatment facilities dependent on Yamuna water.
Failure to resolve this promptly could lead to a severe crisis in Delhi within the next few days. It is imperative that 1050 cusecs of water be released from Munak Canal to meet Delhi's water needs.
