By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: Delhi has approved projects worth ₹622 crore to strengthen flood protection, improve drainage infrastructure and address the persistent problem of silt accumulation in drains, following the 40th meeting of the Flood Control Board chaired by Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh at the Delhi Secretariat on Friday.
The meeting focused on long-term flood mitigation, scientific disposal of desilted material, improved drainage systems and enhanced monsoon preparedness.
₹99 Crore Yamuna Wall to Protect Vulnerable Areas
The Board approved the construction of a 4.7-km reinforced cement concrete (RCC) wall along a vulnerable stretch of the Yamuna, from Magazine Road drain to the Old Railway Bridge, at a cost of ₹99 crore.
The proposed wall aims to protect low-lying areas during periods of high water levels and strengthen the city’s flood defences.
₹260 Crore Biomining Plan to Tackle Silt Disposal
In a significant move to address recurring silt accumulation, the Board granted in-principle approval to three biomining projects worth ₹260 crore for the scientific processing and disposal of silt removed from drains across Delhi.
The projects are expected to particularly benefit the Najafgarh drain and other major drains that carry heavy silt loads.
At present, large quantities of desilted material often remain along drain banks or roadsides because of inadequate disposal arrangements. During subsequent rainfall, the material can wash back into drains, undermining desilting efforts and affecting drainage capacity.
The proposed biomining initiative aims to break this cycle through systematic processing and disposal of the accumulated material.
Drain Banks to Get a Barapullah-Style Makeover
The Board also discussed plans to beautify stretches along drains across the capital, drawing inspiration from the development along the Barapullah drain.
The proposed improvements include walkways, green belts, plantation, proper lighting and protective fencing. The initiative aims to transform neglected and encroachment-prone spaces into cleaner, safer and more accessible public areas.
Minister Stresses Timely Execution
Speaking after the meeting, Singh said that desilting would have little lasting impact if the removed silt continued to return to drains.
“Desilting means nothing if the silt finds its way back into our drains. For years, this is exactly what happened. With biomining, we will dispose of silt scientifically and break that cycle once and for all,” he said.
He added that drain banks should no longer remain eyesores and that Delhi would seek to replicate the green, clean and safe environment developed along the Barapullah drain in other parts of the city.
The Minister directed officials to complete all approved works within the stipulated timelines and ensure regular monitoring of their implementation.
