• Delhi water crisis: SC directs Himachal Pradesh to release surplus water, Haryana to facilitate flow

    National
    Delhi water crisis: SC directs Himachal Pradesh to release surplus water, Haryana to facilitate flow
    Delhi is grappling with a water shortage exacerbated by a heatwave and record-breaking temperatures, with some areas experiencing temperatures as high as fifty degrees Celsius.

    Digital Desk: The Supreme Court on Thursday instructed the Himachal Pradesh government to release 137 cusecs of water and mandated Haryana to facilitate its flow to Delhi. This release is scheduled for Friday. The Delhi government had approached the court, arguing that Himachal Pradesh had agreed to share its surplus water with the national capital. However, since Haryana and Himachal Pradesh do not directly border Delhi, Haryana's cooperation is necessary for Delhi to receive water from the Wazirabad Barrage.

    Delhi is grappling with a water shortage exacerbated by a heatwave and record-breaking temperatures, with some areas experiencing temperatures as high as fifty degrees Celsius. The intense heat has led to frequent water supply disruptions in several neighborhoods, increasing the demand for potable water. The state administration has appealed for additional water supplies to support its sizable workforce and migrant population.

    As per the court's directive reported by Bar and Bench, since Himachal Pradesh has no objection, it is directed to transfer 137 cusecs of water upstream so that it reaches the Hathnikund Barrage and subsequently Delhi via the Wazirabad route. The water will be provided by Himachal Pradesh on June 7, with prior notification to Haryana. The Upper Yamuna River Board will oversee the measurement of water for further distribution.