New Delhi: In a major move to rid the city of its perennial problems with rainwater, Delhi govt has finalised a futuristic stormwater drainage master plan. The project report prepared by PWD incorporates the use of advanced technologies and global best practices aims to address the chronic waterlogging, urban flooding and infrastructure stress, issues that have gained significance in an era of climate change and rapid urbanisation.The master plan marks a significant upgrade from the outdated 1976 plan, with the latest study incorporating state-of-the-art tools like ArcGIS, SewerGEMS and SWMM. These technologies have been used to create a unified, integrated model of Delhi’s stormwater system, connecting existing drains, waterbodies, wetlands and green spaces. The goal is to optimise existing infrastructure while ensuring long-term climate resilience, urban safety and improved quality of life, according to a govt official.Recognising the growing threat of climate change, the plan factors in an 11% increase in rainfall intensity in its design parameters. “This ensures that the new system can withstand future climate events and prevent the kind of flooding Delhi has been increasingly seeing in recent monsoons,” the official said.The city’s land-use patterns have changed substantially over five decades, with rapid urbanisation increasing the built-up area and reducing natural absorption zones. This has altered the surface run-off characteristics, causing drain overflows and flooding. The new drainage plan takes into accounts this shift.The emphasis is on nature-based solutions and green infrastructure with a community-centric approach. The plan promotes the rejuvenation of existing lakes, green parks, wetlands and adoption of rainwater harvesting systems. These eco-friendly interventions have dual benefits: support biodiversity and groundwater recharge and provide recreational and aesthetic spaces to urban residents.Govt will establish an inter-departmental coordination committee comprising stakeholders from PWD, Delhi Jal Board, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority, New Delhi Municipal Council and residents’ welfare associations. Public awareness campaigns and citizen engagement are expected to foster greater accountability and long-term sustainability, said another official.The plan proposes smart monitoring and maintenance systems, including real-time data collection on water levels and drain performance. A dedicated operations and maintenance workforce with specialised equipment will ensure timely responses and preventive care.Implementation will be in phases to ensure efficient resource utilisation while addressing the most vulnerable and flood-prone areas first. Officials said that the plan will not only minimise flooding and improve public health but also reduce economic losses during monsoons, ease traffic movement and improve urban aesthetics. “This is not just a drainage plan; it’s an investment in Delhi’s future, one that will make the city cleaner, greener, safer and more liveable,” an official claimed. “Delhi will take a big step towards becoming a climate-resilient metropolis, blending modern engineering with ecological restoration and citizen engagement.”
