The Delhi Development Authority has cleared 57,000 metric tonnes (t) of silt from stormwater drains so far as part of its pre-monsoon desilting drive. A dedicated 24-hour, seven-day helpline is being set up for waterlogging related complaints and mobile pumping units have been stationed at identified vulnerable locations to enable swift removal of accumulated rainwater. The operation is being overseen by engineering teams working round the clock to reduce urban flooding risk.

The removal represents 70 per cent more silt than was cleared during the previous year’s pre-monsoon drive when about 33,380 t were taken out of the drain network. The city has been divided into six operational zones—East, South, North, Narela, Rohini and Dwarka—to allow focused planning, close supervision and timely execution of works. Authorities said the zonal structure has helped allocate resources and monitor progress more effectively.

The DDA said the extensive drive has strengthened Delhi’s drainage infrastructure ahead of the monsoon season and enhanced preparedness to manage heavy rainfall. It has established a Central Flood Control Room and flood control rooms in all engineering zones to coordinate operations and respond to incidents. Officials added that regular monitoring and rapid mobilisation of teams have reduced the likelihood of prolonged waterlogging at vulnerable sites.

Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu has been reviewing the progress of desilting operations to ensure that residents of the national capital do not face significant inconvenience during heavy downpours and field level execution was accelerated in line with his directions. The DDA said work will continue through the monsoon onset and teams remain on standby to respond to complaints received via the helpline. The measures are intended to improve drainage performance and protect urban areas during peak rainfall.