Delhi needs 44 small dams, 480 new waterbodies: Study

The capital needs to develop 44 small dams in forest areas and 480 new waterbodies to replenish the groundwater table, according to a study commissioned by the AAP government.

The study suggested that it should be made mandatory for residential and commercial complexes, measuring 500 square meters or more, to have rainwater harvesting facilities.

The Delhi government has invited suggestions from all stakeholders wi-thin a month so that th-ey can be incorporated in the report for accepta-nce and implementation.

The study has recommended that the Delhi’s storm water drains sho-uld have soft beds inste-ad of cemented ones and toe weirs at intervals.

Delhi irrigation minister Gopal Rai had ordered the study on recharge of groundwater in the capital five months ago. The irrigation department then assigned Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage to conduct the study.

“The government should also ensure 100 per cent collection of solid waste with no dumping in drains, ponds, depressions. The report has recommended that all residential and commercial plots measuring 300 sqm should have soft soil in their front and there should be substitute porous paving to counter the preventive effect of highly-concretised surface,” a Delhi government official said.

Other recommendations include implementation of building bylaws on local treatment of waste water (wherever a premise generates 10,000 litres of waste water daily).

According to the Delhi government report, 629 waterbodies were identified in the city for maintenance, development and improvement till 2010.