Delhi CM directs coordinated action to check waterlogging in capital

New Delhi, Jul 6 (PTI) In a stern warning to officials, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha on Monday said waterlogging will not be tolerated anywhere in the capital. On the day, Gupta chaired a meeting of the apex district development committee to review monsoon preparedness, upgrade works in city schools and Kanwar Yatra management. Taking note of concerns raised by MLAs during the meeting, the chief minister directed all departments concerned to ensure that every issue is resolved within a fixed timeframe, according to an official statement. "Wherever required, different agencies should coordinate with one another, conduct joint inspections and begin ground-level action without delay so that people receive timely relief," Gupta said. Citizens do not care which area falls under which agency's jurisdiction, they simply expect a permanent solution to their problems, she asserted. The chief minister directed officials "not to remain confined to their offices, but visit the field themselves and assess the actual situation". "At all vulnerable locations and hotspots where waterlogging was witnessed after the very first rainfall, immediate arrangements should be made for pumps, drains should be cleaned and drainage connectivity restored," Gupta said. During the meeting, the chief minister also directed that poorly-maintained school toilets would not be tolerated. "Several schools have witnessed remarkable improvements through community participation, CSR initiatives and crowdfunding, creating a model that other districts can also emulate," Gupta said. She further directed officials not to stop at "cosmetic repairs, but to give highest priority to essential facilities for students, including drinking water, safety, furniture, laboratories and libraries". Reviewing preparations for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra, Gupta directed all district magistrates to coordinate with registered organisations that had organised camps in previous years and ensure that all necessary arrangements are made well in advance. "Adequate arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, medical facilities, electricity and smooth traffic movement should be put in place to ensure the convenience and safety of devotees," Gupta said. She also directed Municipal Corporation of Delhi officials to intensify the drive against encroachments on footpaths to ensure safe and convenient movement for pedestrians. PTI SSM ARB ARB