Delhi imposes fines to combat water wastage amid acute shortage

The Delhi government has issued strict orders to prevent unnecessary water usage to address the severe water shortage in the capital city during the intense summer heat. A penalty of Rs 2,000 has been announced for wasteful practices like washing cars with hoses and using household water for construction or commercial activities.

Delhi Water Minister Atishi has instructed the Delhi Jal Board CEO, A Anbarasu, to create 200 teams to monitor and reduce water wastage in the city. The teams will start working from 8 am on May 30 and will fine those wasting water or using illegal water connections for non-domestic purposes.

Atishi emphasized the urgency of the situation in a strongly worded letter, stating, “There’s an acute heat wave in Delhi and a water shortage due to Haryana not releasing Delhi’s share of water. Water conservation is extremely important.”

The capital is facing a record-breaking heatwave, with some areas reaching 49.9 degrees Celsius. Delhi is heading towards a serious water crisis, prompting the Water Minister to issue a warning and urge residents to conserve water.

At a press conference, Atishi said, “I saw water flowing in South Delhi driveways due to vehicle washing. My appeal is to not wash vehicles this way. If this appeal doesn’t work in one or two days, we may impose a water usage fine.”

Delhi depends on neighbouring states like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh for water. Atishi accused Haryana of not releasing Delhi’s water share since May 1 and warned of approaching the Supreme Court if the Yamuna water supply doesn’t improve.

Individual efforts are important in water conservation. Experts offer tips for residents to make a difference at home. These include taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while brushing teeth, running dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads, and using water-wise practices for outdoor activities.

Dr. Vinit Banga, associate director of neurology at BLK MAX Hospital, warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can worsen dehydration. Dr. Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant-Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, emphasized the importance of maintaining hygiene standards and highlighted the health consequences of excessive laundering, including the release of harmful chemicals and microplastics into water systems.