New Delhi [India], April 20: Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Parvesh Verma conducted an inspection of the Oxidation Pond in Timarpur on Sunday, emphasizing that cleaning the Yamuna River depends on effective sewage management.
Verma stated that visits to all sewage treatment plants (STPs) in the capital are ongoing to ensure they are operating at full capacity. “If we trap all the sewage, our Yamuna will get clean,” he said, highlighting the critical role of sewage containment in restoring the river’s health.
He also revealed plans to collaborate with the Haryana government on curbing industrial waste inflow. “All unauthorised industries, whether in Delhi or Haryana, will face action,” Verma said.
Allegations of Corruption Against AAP
The PWD Minister leveled serious corruption allegations against the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, claiming that Rs 80–85 crore was spent on the Timarpur Oxidation Pond project, but no actual work was done.
“This land is the model of AAP’s corruption. They spent Rs 35 crore on landscaping and Rs 40 crore on ponds, but no work has started. This will be investigated,” Verma declared. He further stated, “No more money will be spent on this landscape,” indicating a halt to further investments until accountability is established.
Delhi’s Water Distribution: A New Vision
Verma reiterated the government’s long-term vision to replace the tanker-based water distribution system with direct tap water supply across all households.
“Our plan is that every house in Delhi gets water straight from the tap, so that the tanker system can be gradually phased out,” he said, calling it part of a transparency and good governance model.
To improve monitoring, Verma said a mobile app now allows Delhiites to track water tankers, including their assigned locations. Additionally, sensors will be installed in the tankers to detect whether water was delivered, and how much was unloaded at designated stops.
Key Takeaways:
- Verma pledges Yamuna cleanup through complete sewage capture.
- Alleges massive AAP corruption in the Rs 85 crore Timarpur sewage project.
- Announces crackdown on unauthorised industries polluting the Yamuna.
- Introduces tech-driven tanker tracking and long-term goal of universal tap water access.