Summer squeeze: Falling Yamuna levels hit Delhi water supply

New Delhi: A drop in the Yamuna water level at Wazirabad during peak summer has disrupted operations at two major Delhi Jal Board (DJB) water treatment plants, affecting supply in several parts of the capital and triggering complaints of shortages, low pressure and contaminated water.

Officials said production at the Chandrawal and Wazirabad plants has declined as both are operating below optimum capacity due to reduced raw water availability in the Wazirabad pondage area. The Wazirabad barrage, which serves as the main holding point for raw water received through the Yamuna channel, requires a minimum level of 674.5 feet above sea level for normal operations, officials said.

To minimise disruption, DJB has diverted raw water from the Haiderpur canal system. Other major treatment plants, including Sonia Vihar, Bhagirathi and Okhla, are functioning normally.

The Wazirabad plant supplies around 134 million gallons per day (MGD) to parts of north and central Delhi, while the Chandrawal plant produces about 98 MGD, catering to north, northwest and central areas. Officials warned that some localities may continue to face temporary low pressure and short supply until the situation improves.

Sources said Delhi govt has initiated talks with Haryana for a water exchange project. Delhi’s average daily water production ranges between 900 and 1,000 MGD, against a requirement of around 1,260 MGD, with demand peaking in summer.

Residents in several areas reported severe disruptions over the past week, particularly in central Delhi. Complaints have emerged from Patel Nagar, parts of Dwarka, Paschim Vihar, Ramesh Enclave and Sudarshan Park. In Dakshinpuri, residents alleged supply has been disrupted for nearly 15 days, forcing dependence on water tankers.

Officials said efforts are underway to regulate distribution and restore normal supply as raw water availability improves.