The construction of the Renuka Dam, which is expected to be a major source of drinking water in the city, is likely to take at least five more years. And even then, the city will receive 15 percent less water from its allocated quota as that amount is likely to get evaporated by the time it reaches Delhi.
Talking to The Asian Age, the Delhi government’s chief secretary Rakesh Mehta said, “Our research work shows that 15 percent of water will be evaporated before reaching Delhi.” He added that it is a major concern.
However, Delhi Jal Board CEO Ramesh Negi said, “ It will be good if we are able to find to solution to the problem, but since the water will reach Delhi through 300-kilometre-long canal, there is no way to stop evaporation.” Mr Negi added that so far we do not have a technology to have access of water coming from Simorga, Himachal Pradesh, without evaporation. “We are looking forward to find a way to stop the wastage of water,” said a senior Delhi Government official.
The government officials also stated that the protests against the construction of the dam are also a big concern. “There are protests against the construction. So far, the Delhi government has promised rehabilitation of the displaced people at a very speedy process,” said Mehta.
The officials added that out of 1,000 families which will be directly affected by the construction of the dam, 168 are likely to go landless. “The families which will go landless will be rehabilitated at Shimorga Highway with the employment opportunities,” said a senior official. The officials added that one member from each displaced family will be given admission in ITI and employment after the courses.