New Delhi, May 2: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed the city’s worsening infrastructure and waterlogging crisis on Friday, after unseasonal heavy rains disrupted life across the capital. Speaking at the inauguration of 400 e-buses at Kushak Nalla bus depot, she declared that a “triple-engine government” – Centre, Delhi government, and local bodies – is working in unison to tackle the city’s deep-rooted civic issues.
Key Highlights:
On Waterlogging and Infrastructure Failures:
- Gupta called the morning downpour a “wake-up call” before the monsoon.
- Reported waterlogging and traffic jams at three major points en route to the event.
- Described the waterlogging problem as a “disease” inherited from the previous government, stating: “It will take time to cure, but we are prepared. Officials are working on the roads as we speak.”
On Political Accountability:
- Took a sharp dig at former CM Arvind Kejriwal, saying: “He must be sleeping in his soundproof Sheeshmahal… no previous CM was ever seen on the roads during such crises.”
On the Triple-Engine Government:
- Reiterated the coordination between the Centre, Delhi, and local authorities, stressing their joint commitment to fixing the “messed-up system of Delhi.”
Launch of 400 E-Buses:
- CM Gupta termed the fleet a “wonderful gift” for Delhiites.
- Highlighted benefits such as reduced pollution and greater comfort, with a promise of 2080 e-buses by year-end.
Weather & Safety Advisory:
- Following severe early morning rainfall, multiple areas in Delhi experienced waterlogging, traffic jams, and flight delays.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a safety alert for Delhi-NCR, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.