DJB to let residents book challans for water wastage

“We are in the process of issuing advertisements inviting applications from retired citizens below the age of 65 years,who will be appointed as special magistrates,” DJB’s chief executive officer Ramesh Negi said.

What are the responsibilities of these special magistrates?

“They will implement the challan drive and levy fines on offenders under the Delhi Jal Board Act,” Negi said.

The plan is to inculcate the idea that water is a precious commodity and needs to be conserved. Offences like washing cars or watering lawns with potable water supply will invite punishment.

The DJB,meanwhile,is also planning to put a check on water thefts. Officials,however,say they face a lot of political pressure when it comes to direct tapping of the main water pipelines.

The DJB has received several complaints of politicians stealing water this way to get 24-hour supply for themselves and their aides.

While Negi refused to comment on the ‘political pressure’,he said the agency was working and was dedicated to putting a check on water theft from the main lines. “Water supply will be rationed. Once every locality gets a dedicated underground reservoir (UGR),it will be difficult to steal water directly.”

The DJB had plans to install 56 UGRS this year,out of which 26 have already been commissioned. “We will commission 20 more UGRs in the coming year,” Negi said.