The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has initiated a time-bound restoration drive to revive 77 lakes and ponds across the national capital, following directives from Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu. This move comes amid growing concerns over the steady decline of Delhi's water bodies due to encroachment, sewage inflow, and prolonged neglect.
Review Meeting and Action Plan
The decision was taken after a review meeting chaired by the LG on Friday, during which DDA officials presented a comprehensive plan for the rejuvenation, restoration, and long-term conservation of water bodies. A DDA official stated that the presentation was prepared following the LG's instructions issued about a week ago, emphasizing the need for a concrete action plan to prevent further deterioration of the city's aquatic assets.
Phased Restoration Timeline
Officials confirmed that restoration work on the 77 identified water bodies would commence immediately, with other lakes and ponds under DDA control to be addressed in phases. The timeline includes: six water bodies to be revived within 30 days, 48 within 60 days, and the remaining 23 larger and more complex sites within 90 days.
Two-Phase Restoration Programme
The restoration programme is structured in two phases. The first phase focuses on reviving dead and dying water bodies through excavation, dredging, and desilting. Many ponds and lakes in Delhi have lost their water-holding capacity due to silt accumulation, debris dumping, and blocked natural drainage channels. Initial work involves deepening the water bodies, removing sludge, and clearing catchment areas to maximize rainwater harvesting during the upcoming monsoon. An official emphasized that the priority is to restore ecological functionality so that water bodies can naturally retain and recharge water.
DDA will also restore natural inflow channels and remove encroachments or obstructions that prevent rainwater from reaching lakes and ponds. Scientific surveys and mapping exercises have already been conducted at several sites to assess hydrology and site-specific restoration requirements.
Long-Term Conservation and Public Use
Once revival is completed, the project will move into a second phase focused on long-term conservation and public use. This includes strengthening embankments to prevent erosion, plantation drives around the water bodies, installation of fencing to curb dumping and encroachment, and beautification works to integrate restored sites with surrounding neighborhoods. The authority also plans to install sewage treatment plants (STPs) and decentralized sewage treatment plants (DSTPs) at several locations to prevent untreated wastewater from entering lakes and ponds, a major cause of degradation.
LG's Emphasis on Timely Action
During the meeting, the LG described Delhi's lakes, ponds, and other aquatic ecosystems as invaluable environmental assets vital for groundwater recharge, ecological balance, and climate resilience. He directed officials to adhere to timelines and begin restoration work without delay.
